Dentures can be made from several different materials, but they are normally made of acrylic, resin, nylon, porcelain, or metal. This is not only for comfort and function but also to ensure they look as natural as possible.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are custom-made, removable artificial teeth designed to look and function like natural teeth. They’re often made from materials like acrylic, nylon, resin, porcelain, and metal. They fit snugly over the gums and replace any missing teeth the patient may have. They can also help eliminate any problems patients may be experiencing from gaps in their teeth. There are two main types of dentures, and Dr. Belt can help you determine which option is best for you.
Benefits of Dentures
There are many benefits of dentures, including:
- A beautiful smile, which can help improve your confidence
- Better speech
- Easy to clean
- Removable
- Renewed appearance of facial features affected by lost teeth
Who Are Dentures For?
Dentures are often thought of as a dental solution for the elderly, but that’s not the case. They’re an ideal solution for adults of any age who may have lost their teeth due to decay, injury, or gum disease.
They are the perfect solution for those who want to restore their smile aesthetically, and they can also help return functionality to speech that may have been lost due to gaps.
Using Dentures in Conjunction with Dental Implants
Implant-retained dentures
Regular dentures rely on your gums for support, which isn’t always an ideal option for some people. However, there is another option you could opt for: combining dentures with dental implants.
Dental implants are small, surgically implanted devices that surgeons place into your jaw where there are missing roots. They can help those who may have lost their ability to chew due to missing teeth. These are often known as implant-retained dentures.
Like ordinary dentures, implant-retained dentures should still be removed at night to be soaked clean. The most significant difference is that as you reinsert them, they “snap” into place and attach to the implants already in your jaw. You won’t need denture glue to keep them in place, which is an attractive option for many patients.
Implant-supported dentures
Implant-supported dentures can also be used in conjunction with dental implants. These dentures are not removable, and they’re generally given to those who don’t want removable fixtures in their mouth.
Only a dentist is able to fit or remove these, and a common downside of a more permanent version of dentures is that they require more thorough and frequent cleaning.
FAQs About Dentures
Many of our patients wish to know more about dentures before they make the decision to get them. Here are some of our most frequently asked questions:
Dentures should be cleaned daily with a soft brush and denture cleaner. It’s important not to use regular toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and break down the material. You should also soak them overnight in a denture solution to keep them clean when they’re not in use.
If you have more permanent dentures, you will need to clean them thoroughly every day, including flossing underneath them. Dr. Belt can advise you on the best practices for this.
Will dentures change how I speak?
In the beginning, you might find certain words difficult to pronounce. However, with time and practice, your speech should return to normal.
Will dentures make me look different?
Dentures support the cheeks and lips, which in turn support the facial structure. Without them, a person can look older than they are because the facial muscles tend to droop.
Can dentures be for younger and older people alike?
Absolutely. Dentures are often misconstrued as a dental solution for the elderly, but they can actually provide functional and aesthetic benefits to any adult, no matter what stage of life they are in.
How do I learn more about whether dentures are right for me?
The best way to determine whether dentures are the right solution for you is to speak to a professional. Dr. Belt is more than willing to help you decide on the best option for your smile.
If you are considering dentures, contact Durango Dental to schedule an appointment with a member of our friendly team. We look forward to providing you with a healthier, more functional smile!