Facts & Tips about Dentures

What are Dentures?

Dentures are prosthetic dental devices designed to replace missing teeth. These devices are supported by the oral tissues around the missing teeth. A denture may replace a few teeth in a row or all teeth in upper or lower jaws. Dentures in Tampa, FL, help patients who have lost teeth to maintain their appearance. They also restore regular teeth’ functions.

Types of Dentures

Dentures are made based on whether the patient has any remaining natural teeth or not. The patient’s oral health status and lifestyle also determine the type of denture.

Complete Dentures

These are replacements designed for patients who are missing all teeth in a single arch. They are made of acrylic or porcelain and colored to mimic teeth and gum tissues. Complete dentures are removable and are kept in place by suction.

Partial Removable dentures

Partial removable dentures are designed for patients without some teeth on the upper or lower jaw. These dentures prevent other natural teeth from moving out of their position. The replacement teeth in these dentures are attached to a gum-colored plastic base. They are then built onto a cast metal framework for strength.

Custom dentures

These are dentures customized to replace your missing teeth according to your smile. They are custom-made based on personal preferences for more natural-looking false teeth.

Over-Dentures

These dentures consist of dental implants but are not permanently attached to them. Instead, they click into place and latch onto the metal posts, making them removable. As a result, these dentures are natural-looking and durable.

Immediate dentures

Immediate or same-day dentures are placed on the same day following an extraction. After the teeth removal, you must wait for 6-8 weeks before a denture is prepared and placed. These dentures offer patients the comfort of not appearing toothless in front of people.

Fixed Partial Dentures

These dentures replace some missing teeth in an arch by using the existing surrounding teeth. They may also use dental implants for support. They are permanent and so feel more secure than removable dentures.

Economy Dentures

These are generic dentures that are pre-made without a specific patient in mind. As a result, they look less natural than other dentures and do not fit as well. Although they are cost-effective, dental professionals do not recommend economy dentures.

Snap-In Dentures

They are removable dentures held in place by dental implants or anchored on existing teeth. The implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone then the dentures are snapped securely on them.

Which Dentures Are Suitable for You?

Now that you know the various types of dentures available, how do you choose which type best fits you? Here are a few tips for selecting suitable dentures in Tampa, FL.

Dental requirements

The number and position of the missing teeth determine the type of denture used. Sometimes, the dentist may require extracting some teeth before placing dentures. You may pick dentures based on individual needs.

Comfort

You must choose a denture that provides maximum comfort. A custom-made denture ensures a comfortable fit since it is molded specifically to your dental issues. Some patients are comfortable with fixed dentures, while others prefer removable dentures

Finances

Various types of dentures have different costs. The dentist will help you work out a budget that suits you.

Taking Care of Dentures

Here are some dos and don’ts from the dentist in Tampa, FL, to help you take care of your dentures.

• Handle the dentures carefully when they are out of your mouth. Do not bend them as they may break or damage the clasps.
• Clean them daily using a denture brush and a suitable dental cleaner.
• Remove them after every meal and rinse them to get rid of food debris.
• Take out your removable dentures before bed and soak them overnight. Removing them allows the oral tissues to relax and recover. They are soaked to keep them from drying out and losing their shape or becoming brittle.
• Rinse these devices before returning them to your mouth.
• Avoid hot water as it could damage your dentures.
• Do not use abrasive brushes or materials to clean the dentures, as you could damage them.
• Visit the dentist near you regularly or if you have a loose fit. Loose-fitting dentures can cause irritation, infection, and sores.

If you are missing some teeth and require dentures to replace them, contact us or book an appointment at Bay Premier Dentistry. Our dentist is proficient in designing custom-made dentures and placing them effectively.