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What should I do if my denture breaks?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 If your denture breaks, do not attempt to fix it yourself as this could lead to further damage. Instead, keep all broken pieces safe and clean. Avoid wearing the damaged denture to prevent discomfort or injury. Contact your dentist immediately and schedule an appointment. They are equipped to professionally repair or replace your denture. In some cases, minor repairs can be done within a day, while more serious damage may require a replacement. If you experience pain or discomfort, over-the-counter pain relief can be used, but should not be applied directly to the gums. Remember, regular dental check-ups can help identify problems early on, potentially avoiding breakages. Book Appointment With Denture Dentist |
What is the difference between partial and full dentures?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Partial and full dentures are prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth, but they serve different purposes. Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, are used when all natural teeth are missing in the lower or upper jaw, or both. They consist of a full set of artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored acrylic base. On the other hand, partial dentures are used when some natural teeth still remain. They consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored base, and are usually secured to the remaining natural teeth with metal clasps or precision attachments. The choice between partial and full dentures typically depends on the number and distribution of the missing teeth Book Appointment With Denture Dentist |
How often should I take my dentures out?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 It's important to remove your dentures daily. Ideally, they should be taken out every night before you go to sleep. This gives your gums and jawbone a chance to relax, as continuous wearing can cause discomfort and even lead to infections or other dental issues. After removal, clean your dentures thoroughly to remove food particles and bacteria. Soak them overnight in a denture cleaning solution to help maintain their shape and cleanliness. In the morning, before putting them back in, brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth to stimulate circulation and remove any lingering bacteria. Always consult with your dentist about your specific denture care routine to ensure optimal oral health. Book Appointment With Denture Dentist |
Can I wear my dentures when I am sick?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Yes, you can wear your dentures when you are sick. However, it's essential to maintain good oral hygiene during this time, as illness may affect your mouth's health. When you are sick, especially if you have a fever, your mouth might become dry which can cause discomfort and can potentially lead to gum and mouth infections. It's important to stay hydrated and rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution. Clean your dentures thoroughly as usual, and if you experience any discomfort or fit issues due to possible swelling or inflammation, it might be best to remove them. If your illness involves vomiting, remove your dentures to prevent any risk of aspiration. Always consult your dentist or healthcare provider for specific advice. |
How do implant-supported dentures work?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Implant-supported dentures, unlike traditional dentures, are anchored to the jawbone using dental implants. These implants are tiny titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. Over time, the jawbone integrates with the implants in a process known as osseointegration. Once the healing process is complete, a special type of denture is fitted onto these implants. The denture has attachments that clip onto the implants, providing a secure, stable fit. This prevents the slipping and shifting that can occur with regular dentures. Implant-supported dentures offer improved comfort, enhanced chewing efficiency, and better speech clarity. They also help maintain the health and integrity of the jawbone, preventing bone loss often associated with missing teeth. Book Appointment With Denture Dentist |
Are there alternatives to dentures?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Yes, there are several alternatives to dentures for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants are a popular choice. These involve surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as an artificial tooth root, and attaching a custom-made crown on top. They're strong, durable, and look like natural teeth. Another alternative is dental bridges. Bridges are used when one or a few adjacent teeth are missing. A false tooth or teeth are placed in the gap and anchored to the neighboring natural teeth or implants. Partial dentures are also an option when only some teeth are missing. They can be removable or fixed in place.In addition, recent advances in regenerative medicine are exploring the use of stem cells to grow new teeth, though this technology is not yet widely available. Book Appointment With Denture Dentist |
What should I do if my dentures do not fit correctly?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 If your dentures don't fit correctly, you may experience discomfort, difficulty eating, or speech issues. It's crucial not to try to adjust them yourself to prevent any potential damage. Instead, make an appointment with your dentist or prosthodontist. They are trained to adjust dentures for a better fit. Your dentures may need to be relined, rebased, or remade entirely depending on the issue. If they are new dentures, some minor adjustments may be needed after initial fitting. Regular dental check-ups are also important for assessing the health of your gums and mouth, and to ensure your dentures still fit well over time, as the shape of your gums and jaw can change. Book Appointment With Denture Dentist |
Will my dentures need to be replaced over time?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Yes, dentures generally need to be replaced over time. This is due to normal wear and tear from daily use, changes in your mouth and jawbone, and potential damage from accidents. With proper care, a set of dentures can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, but your mouth changes shape during this time, causing the dentures to fit less comfortably and securely. Poorly fitting dentures can cause discomfort and mouth sores, and may affect your eating and speaking. Additionally, worn or damaged dentures may not function as well as they should, leading to dietary changes and potential nutritional deficiencies. Therefore, it is important to see your dentist regularly for denture check-ups, adjustments, or replacement if necessary. Book Appointment With Denture Dentist |
How often should I come in for denture adjustments?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Denture adjustments, also known as relines, are necessary when your dentures no longer fit as well as they should. This is often due to changes in the gum and bone structure over time, which occur naturally with aging. On average, denture wearers might need adjustments every 1-2 years, but it varies significantly among individuals. Factors influencing this include the type of dentures, oral hygiene practices, changes in weight, and specific health conditions. If you're experiencing discomfort, sore spots, difficulty eating, or speech problems, you should contact your dentist for an adjustment. It's also important to schedule regular dental check-ups, usually every 6 months, to ensure your dentures are functioning well and maintaining your oral health. Book Appointment With Denture Dentist |
will dentures alter my appearance?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Yes, dentures can alter your appearance, but in most cases, it's for the better. Dentures are designed to replace missing teeth and restore the structure of your mouth, improving your smile and giving your face a more youthful look. Without teeth, the muscles in your face may sag, leading to an older appearance. By filling out your cheeks and restoring the height between your upper and lower jaw, dentures can help prevent this sagging and give your face a more natural contour. However, it's crucial that dentures fit correctly to maintain this positive effect. Ill-fitting dentures can cause discomfort, difficulties in eating and speaking, and may negatively affect your appearance. Therefore, good communication with your dentist is essential in achieving the best possible outcome. |
Are there foods I should avoid with dentures?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 If you're wearing dentures, you should be cautious about consuming certain types of food, as they could potentially cause discomfort, damage your dentures, or pose a choking hazard. Here are some types of foods to be cautious with: Hard foods: Foods like nuts, seeds, popcorn, or hard candies can damage your dentures or become trapped underneath, causing discomfort. Sticky foods: Sticky or chewy foods such as caramel, chewing gum, or gummy candies may dislodge or stick to your dentures. Tough meats: Difficult to chew, these can dislodge your dentures. Hot liquids: They may warp your dentures if they're too hot. Foods with small bits: Things like sesame seeds or poppy seeds can get lodged under your dentures. Hard fruits or vegetables: Items like whole apples or carrots can dislodge your dentures. Consider cutting these into smaller, bite-sized pieces. |
Will dentures change the way I eat?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Yes, dentures will likely change the way you eat, at least initially. When you first start wearing dentures, you might experience some difficulty with biting and chewing food, and some food textures might feel different. It's recommended that you start with soft foods cut into small pieces, gradually including more solid foods as you get used to the dentures. Avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage your dentures. Also, try to chew using both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent the dentures from tipping. Drinking water while eating can also make swallowing easier. Over time, as you become more comfortable, you should be able to eat most of your favorite foods again. It is crucial to maintain regular dental check-ups to ensure proper fit and comfort. |
Will dentures affect my speech?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Yes, dentures can initially affect your speech. When you first start wearing them, your mouth has to adjust to the new appliance, which can lead to difficulties in pronouncing certain words or sounds, such as "s", "th", or "f". This is because these sounds rely heavily on the tongue and teeth working together, and your new dentures can alter how this process works. Some individuals may also notice a lisp or a slight whistle when they speak. However, these issues are usually temporary. As your mouth and muscles become accustomed to the dentures, your speech will gradually return to normal. If speech problems persist, it may indicate that your dentures need to be adjusted or refitted. |
Can I sleep with my dentures in?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Dentists generally advise against sleeping with dentures in. This practice could lead to a number of issues. First, it could potentially harm the soft tissues of your mouth, leading to discomfort and sores. Second, it might increase the risk of infections such as thrush and bacterial accumulation. Your mouth needs time to rest and recover from the pressure and friction caused by wearing dentures throughout the day. Also, removing dentures at night allows for thorough cleaning, which is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. Lastly, taking out your dentures for at least six to eight hours daily promotes healthier gums and bones in your mouth. It's essential to discuss your specific situation with your dentist for individualized advice. |
How should I clean my dentures?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Cleaning dentures regularly helps ensure they stay in good condition and your oral health is maintained. Follow these steps: First, rinse your dentures thoroughly under warm water to remove any loose food particles. Next, use a soft toothbrush or a brush specially designed for dentures, along with a denture cleaning solution. Don't use regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive. Brush all surfaces of the dentures gently to avoid causing any damage. Remember to clean your gums, tongue and palate with a soft-bristled brush too. Once cleaned, rinse your dentures again. When not wearing your dentures, keep them in water or a denture cleaning soaking solution to prevent them from drying out. |
How long do dentures last?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Dentures, like other dental appliances, have a lifespan that largely depends on several factors such as the quality of care, frequency of use, and individual oral habits. Typically, a set of well-made dentures can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, although some may last longer. Over time, wear and tear can result in a compromised fit, fractures, or discoloration. Moreover, the structure of your mouth and jawbone changes as you age, which could lead to a loose or uncomfortable fit. Regular dental check-ups are important, as your dentist can assess the condition and fit of your dentures and recommend replacements or adjustments when necessary. Proper maintenance including regular cleaning can also extend the lifespan of your dentures. |
How long does it take to get used to new dentures?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Adapting to new dentures varies significantly from person to person, but on average, it may take about a month to get fully accustomed. Initially, you may experience discomfort, excess salivation, difficulty in speaking or eating, and possibly minor irritation or soreness. These issues usually resolve as your mouth adapts. The first week can be particularly challenging as your tongue and cheeks learn to keep the dentures in place. Gradually, you should start feeling more comfortable during the second and third weeks. Regular check-ups with your dentist are essential during this period to adjust the fit and address any problems. Remember, patience and perseverance are key as your body adjusts to this new dental appliance. |
How are dentures made?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Dentures are custom-made prosthetics for missing teeth, and their production involves several steps. Firstly, an oral impression of the patient's mouth is taken, which is then used to create a model representing their jaw's structure. A dental lab technician uses this model to craft a wax mock-up of the dentures, which is checked for fit, form, and function in the patient's mouth. After any necessary adjustments, the wax dentures are used to form a mold. Dental acrylic is then poured into the mold, forming the denture's base, while teeth made from plastic or porcelain are individually set to match the natural teeth's orientation. Once set and hardened, the dentures are polished and checked again for proper fit before being delivered to the patient. |
Are there different types of dentures?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Yes, there are various types of dentures available, each designed to address specific dental issues. 1.Complete Dentures: Also known as full dentures, these replace all of a patient's teeth in the upper or lower jaw. 2.Partial Dentures: These replace one or a few missing teeth and are held in place by the remaining natural teeth. 3.Overdentures: They are similar to complete dentures but are held in place by dental implants or remaining teeth. 4.Immediate Dentures: These are pre-made and can be placed immediately after tooth extraction. 5.Snap-In Dentures: These are more stable, snapping onto dental implants or onto the remaining natural teeth that have been fitted with precision attachments. 6.Flexible Dentures: Made from flexible plastic, they provide a more comfortable and realistic-looking option. 7.Implant-Supported Dentures: These dentures are anchored by dental implants, providing increased stability and function. Choosing the right denture type is a decision made in collaboration with your dental professional. |
What are dentures?Dentist answersposted on Jun 3rd, 2023 Dentures are removable prosthetic devices custom-designed to replace missing teeth. They come in two primary types: complete (or full) dentures, used when all natural teeth are missing, and partial dentures, used when some natural teeth remain. Dentures improve oral health by supporting facial muscles, aiding in speech and chewing, and preventing further tooth loss. They're made from materials like acrylic, nylon, or metal, designed to mimic the appearance of natural teeth and gums. Dentures require regular cleaning to maintain oral hygiene and should be handled with care, as they can break if dropped. Regular visits to the dentist are essential for adjustments, ensuring they fit properly and comfortably. Despite the development of other dental prosthetic options like implants, dentures remain a popular choice due to their accessibility and affordability. |
