Dentures (Partial and Full)

Dentures are removable dental appliances that serve as replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are designed to closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth and can even enhance the aesthetics of your smile.

Types of Dentures

There are two main types of dentures:

  • Complete Dentures

Used when all the teeth in a particular arch are missing. A complete denture may be either conventional or immediate:

  • Conventional Dentures: These are made after all the teeth are removed and the gum tissue has healed. This healing period typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, during which the patient goes without teeth.
  • Immediate Dentures: These are made in advance and placed immediately after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from being without teeth during the healing process. However, as the gum tissue heals and shrinks, the dentures may need to be adjusted.
  • Partial Dentures 

Used when some natural teeth remain. Partial dentures not only fill the gaps left by missing teeth but also prevent the remaining teeth from shifting over time.

Reasons for Dentures

Dentures are typically recommended for the following reasons:

  • Complete Denture: Loss of all teeth in one arch.
  • Partial Denture: Loss of several teeth in one arch.
  • Enhance Smile and Facial Appearance: Dentures help restore the aesthetic appearance of your smile and can improve facial features.
  • Improve Functionality: Dentures help restore chewing function, improve speech, and aid in digestion by enabling proper mastication.

The Process of Getting Dentures

Getting dentures usually involves multiple visits over several weeks. The steps typically include:

  1. Initial Impressions: Accurate impressions (moulds) are taken of your mouth to create a custom denture that fits perfectly.
  2. Try-In Appointments: Several “try-in” appointments may be necessary to ensure the dentures fit comfortably and look natural. The shape, colour, and overall fit are adjusted as needed.
  3. Final Placement: During the final appointment, your dentist will place the completed denture, ensuring a precise, comfortable fit.

Adjustments and Adaptation

It is normal to experience some discomfort, increased saliva production, and possible difficulty with speaking or chewing initially. These symptoms should subside as your muscles and tissues adjust to the new dentures.

Care and Maintenance

You will be provided with care instructions for your new dentures. Regular cleaning and good oral hygiene are essential to the longevity of your dentures. Additionally, maintaining regular dental visits helps ensure proper care and adjustments over time.

Reducing Toxicity from Dentures

Various types of dentures can be hardened to reduce the leaching of potentially harmful substances such as acrylic acid, urethane, bisphenol-A, phthalates, metals, and dyes. This process involves testing and hardening the dentures to ensure they do not release these substances at detectable levels.

Hardening Procedure:

  1. Heat tap water in a saucepan until it just begins to steam. Turn off the heat.
  2. Place the dentures in the water, cover, and let them sit for 30 minutes.
  3. Afterward, remove and rinse the dentures.
  4. Repeat the process with fresh water two more times.

This procedure is recommended especially if you experience reactions such as redness, burning, or discomfort from wearing your dentures. It is advised to repeat this hardening procedure after every dentist visit, even for minor adjustments.

Conclusion

Dentures are an effective and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth and improving both appearance and functionality. With proper care, they can significantly enhance your quality of life and restore confidence in your smile.