Missing teeth can make normal functions such as chewing and speaking uncomfortable. In addition to this, broken teeth can lead to inflammation, infections, and gum disease. They can also leave you feeling self-conscious.
Many people prefer to opt for the all-on-4 dental implant procedure, where teeth are implanted. However, poor bone density may mean that you’re not a good candidate for this procedure. In this instance, your prosthodontist may recommend the dentures Mornington locals often opt for.
Understanding What Dentures Are
Dentures are removable replacements for all or partially missing teeth. Porcelain, acrylic, resin, and nylon are common materials used to make dentures.
There are typically two common types of dentures, known as full and partial dentures. Here’s how they compare:
- Full (complete) dentures: These options have been designed as a full set of replacement teeth. Several damaged or broken teeth will make this necessary. A set of teeth is made to lie over the gums and is usually kept in place by a special adhesive. These versions are removable. They are usually taken out of the mouth to be cleaned manually, or they can be placed in denture cleaning solution.
- Partial (few) dentures: These options are designed to replace gaps in your mouth if you’ve only lost a few teeth. Created as plates with wires that attach to other teeth, partial teeth boast special clasps to hook onto healthy teeth for support.
An Effective Solution to Restore Your Smile
Many people opt for dentures when they start developing dental issues. Here are some essential pointers to know if you’re considering this option.
1. Understand if You’re a Candidate
Anyone who is looking to replace broken or lost teeth is a perfect candidate for partial or complete dentures. Severe dental damage could have been caused by old age, trauma, or even bone atrophy. In many instances, these issues negatively affect the bone density, making other, more permanent procedures impossible.
The criteria are to have gums healthy enough to sustain the dentures. Since adding dentures requires having chipped, broken, and unhealthy teeth removed, your oral health will improve significantly. Adding the dentures will allow you to speak properly and also eat comfortably. It will also prevent your face from developing that sunken-in look from having no teeth.
2. Know How Dentures are Made
The process of getting a shiny new set of dentures starts with a comprehensive assessment of your mouth and overall oral health. Your dental specialist will assess if you have adequate bone density and tissue to hold the dentures in place long-term.
If these two aspects pass the initial assessment, a mould is made of your mouth, gums, and teeth. These impressions are then sent to the dental lab, where an acrylic model of your mouth is created. The goal here is to ensure that your dentures fit perfectly and don’t move around.
3. Remarkably Long Lasting
One of your top concerns may be to find out how long your dentures will last. Fortunately, dentures are created using durable materials such as acrylic. In many cases, a set of dentures can last between five to ten years.
However, some people have reported their dentures lasting much longer. Over time, it may be necessary to perform repairs or adjustments to maintain functionality. Losing or gaining weight may affect how comfortably your teeth fit.
4. Denture Alternatives to Consider
Your dental specialist will always make the best recommendation for potential tooth replacement options. These suggestions will be based on jawbone density, the quantity of missing teeth, as well as your overall oral health.
If you’re not keen on the removable aspect of dentures, then there is usually another alternative that you may be a candidate for. These include:
- Dental implants: Titanium posts are implanted into your mouth arch, and bridges are then placed over the posts, creating a whole set of teeth over the arch. These are a permanent solution and, as such, are a top alternative if you have healthy bone density. This process can take up to a year to finalise, especially if you require a bone graft.
- Dental bridges: These are prosthetic teeth which are attached to dental implants or crowns. They are well known for being sturdy and are also less likely to slip around like full dentures have been known to do.
- Overdentures: Many of your natural teeth are kept, and an overdenture is attached to the existing teeth. It fits securely and makes it feel as though you’re eating and speaking with your natural teeth. You may consider this option if you still have many of your original teeth.
Final Thoughts
Dentures are an effective way to replace broken and missing teeth. Doing this contributes to a healthier mouth that facilitates eating and speaking. When taken care of, your dentures will last a long time. If you think this is a viable option for you, be sure to discuss it with your dental practitioner at your next dental check-up. Restoring your smile is easier than you think!