Dentures are a great way to replace missing teeth. They can help you smile, talk, and eat with confidence again. But when should you get dentures? We’ll talk about when to get dentures, their types, and how they can help improve your health and life.
Why You Should Replace Missing Teeth
When To Get Dentures
If you are missing teeth, it’s important to know when to get dentures. Here are some signs that it might be the right time for dentures:
Gum Disease Or Tooth Loss
Gum disease can cause teeth to become loose or fall out. If you have gum disease or other dental problems, you may need dentures to replace the lost teeth.
Trouble Chewing
If it’s hard to chew food because you’ve lost teeth, dentures can help. They will help you eat the foods you enjoy and keep you healthy.
Feeling Self-Conscious About Your Smile
If you feel embarrassed about missing teeth, dentures can help restore your smile. You’ll be able to smile with confidence again!
Shifting Teeth
Sunken Facial Muscles
Losing teeth can change how your face looks. Your jaw can lose bone, and your face may look different. Dentures should help restore the shape of your face and give you a more youthful appearance.
Types Of Dentures
There are different types of dentures. The right type for you depends on how many natural teeth you’ve lost and your mouth’s condition. Your prosthetist will help you choose the best type.
Full Dentures
Full dentures replace missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw or both. They fit on the gums and look natural. Full dentures help you eat, talk, and smile again.
Partial Denture
Partial dentures are for you if you still have a few teeth left. These dentures fill the gaps between the remaining healthy teeth with small clasps.
Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures are placed right after your damaged teeth are removed. These dentures are temporary and help protect your gums while they heal. They can be adjusted later as your mouth changes.
Suction Dentures
Suction dentures stay in place because they create a suction with your gums. These dentures fit your mouth very well, so they don’t need metal clasps or adhesives to stay in place. Suction dentures can be very comfortable and stable.
How Are Dentures Fitted?
Getting false teeth is a step-by-step process to make sure your new teeth fit well and feel comfy. Here’s what will happen:
First Visit
When you first visit the prosthetist, they will look at your mouth, gums, and any teeth you have left. They will discuss your smile and how dentures can help you. This is when you can ask any questions you have.
Making Moulds
Next, the prosthetist will make a mould of your mouth. This is like a copy of your gums and teeth. The mould helps make dentures that fit your mouth just right. You may feel a little pressure, but it doesn’t hurt.
Making Your Dentures
After the mould is made, your dentures will be created. This can take some time. The prosthetist will ensure your dentures look natural and fit well in your mouth.
Trying Them On
When your dentures are ready, you will try them on. The prosthetist will make sure they feel comfortable and look good. If they don’t feel right, they can change them to fit better.
Final Fitting
Once your dentures fit well, the prosthetist will do the final check. They will make sure your dentures stay in place and feel comfortable. If needed, they will make small changes to help them fit even better.
Getting Used To Your Dentures
After your dentures are fitted, getting used to them may take a little time. Your gums may feel funny at first. But soon, your dentures will feel just right. You’ll be able to smile, talk, and eat easily again!
Caring For Your Dentures
It’s important to take care of your dentures to keep them clean and in good shape. Here’s how:
- Brush your dentures every day with a soft brush and mild soap.
- Soak them in a denture cleanser overnight.
- Visit your prosthetist for check-ups to make sure your dentures fit well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dentures uncomfortable?
It’s normal to feel some discomfort when you first start wearing dentures. But after a little while, they should feel more comfortable. If they don’t, visit your prosthetist to make adjustments.
Can I eat normally with dentures?
Yes, after you get used to your dentures, you should be able to eat most foods. Start with softer foods, and slowly try firmer foods to get used to chewing with dentures.
Will dentures change how I speak?
It might take some time to adjust to speaking with dentures, especially if you’ve been missing teeth for a while. But most people get used to it after a few weeks and can speak clearly again.
How much do dentures cost?
The cost of dentures can vary. It depends on the type of dentures you need and how many teeth need replacing. Dentures should be more affordable than dental implants. But it’s important to talk to your prosthetist about the cost. Many practices offer payment plans to help with the cost of dentures.
How long do dentures last?
With good care, dentures can last for many years. But, as your mouth changes, your dentures may need to be adjusted or relined. Visits are important to ensure your dentures fit well and work properly.
Final Thoughts
If you have questions or want to learn more about dentures, we’re here in Brisbane to help! For further guidance on how to care for your dentures or to schedule a cleaning appointment, don’t hesitate to contact Custom Denture Clinic at:
BUDERIM: (07) 5317 1023
CALOUNDRA: (07) 5315 8076
Our friendly team will help you find the best option for your smile. We can’t wait to see you!
Sources:
NHS. Dentures (False Teeth) [Internet]. NHS. 2021 [cited 2024 Nov 15]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dentures/
Fixodent. Should You Get Dentures? Signs That You Might Need Them [Internet]. Fixodent®. 2022 [cited 2024 Nov 15]. Available from: https://www.dentureliving.com/en-us/advice-tips/preparing-for-dentures/when-do-you-need-dentures
Steinheimer L. Types of Dentures & Indicators for Treatment [Internet]. NewMouth. 2024 [cited 2024 Nov 15]. Available from: https://www.newmouth.com/dentistry/restorative/dentures/
Higuera V. How to Care for Your Dentures [Internet]. Healthline. 2021 [cited 2024 Nov 15]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/denture-care
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