Although all adult teeth are meant to last a lifetime, for some reason you may lose a tooth or more maybe be due to damage by disease or injury. If that ever happens, you can use dentures to restore your smile. They not only fix your appearance but will also help with any functional difficulties you may experience after tooth loss such as chewing and speaking.

What are Dentures?

In the simplest words, dentures are false teeth used to replace missing teeth. They are removable and are customized to fit the unique characteristics of a patient’s mouth. dentures act like a prosthetic since they are not affixed into the jaw bone. Their structure consists of a supporting base that resembles the gums, which hold the false teeth in place. A flexible polymer is usually used to make the gum-like base while the false teeth are made from resin.

There are tow main types of dentures: full or complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used to replace an entire set of upper or lower teeth. The traditional complete dentures are designed to fit snugly over the gums for support while modern alternatives rely on dental implants to hold the dentures in place.

For instances when only a few teeth are missing, partial dentures are used. They can be made with a plastic base or metal frameworks that will hold the number of teeth to be replaced. The denture is then worn by clasping it onto adjacent natural teeth for support. The clasps could be made from metal or tooth colored material and are usually easy to snap in and out. The plastic framework is usually preferred over the metal one since it is more flexible.

What is the Procedure Like?

It is often recommended that you get your dentures made as soon as you lose your teeth. The idea is to minimize the effects of tooth loss. In case of gum inflammation after a tooth is out, you can wait it out and have dentures fitted as soon as you heal. The process begins with the dentist taking impressions of your mouth. The mold is used to make the base of the false teeth and needs to fit comfortably over your gums.

Using the mold impression, a dentures specialist will create your dentures and then your dentist will try fitting them on. In case of any issues, adjustments will be made until you get a snug and comfortable fit.

The procedure for getting dentures is very basic and fast. It will often go about with a hitch. It is also not painful and thus sedation is not necessary, unless the patient has dental anxiety. But like all other procedures, dentures will only be fitted if the dentist confirms you do not have any unsolved dental issues like cavities or gum disease.

Benefits of Dentures

there e are other tooth replacement options available, but some characteristics of dentures may make them more appealing to others. Some of the benefits associated with dentures include;

  • They are able to improve both function and appearance. Dentures eliminate gaps in your smile while allowing you to speak and chew without difficulty.
  • By replacing your teeth with dentures, you prevent issues like bone loss which if severe, can cause your face to drop, making you look older than you are.
  • You get to boost your self-esteem and confidence by improving the appearance of your smile.
  • It is a quick and simple way to replace teeth. it is also minimally invasive compared to treatments like implants.
  • Can be used o fixed tooth loss of any kind. Whether it was due to gum disease, injury or tooth decay.
  • They are easy to care for and maintain.
  • They are safe, comfortable and can last between 5 to 8 years if properly maintained.

For any more questions you may have about dentures, visit Mercer Smiles in Robbinsville Township, NJ. If you are considering the treatment, we will evaluate your candidacy and also provide you with alternative treatments we think might be of help.

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