What Are The Different Types of Dentures? How Do I Know Which One Is Best For Me?

Denture type 1

Dentures have been around for many years, and whilst dentistry evolves, so does the availability of various types. The best thing of all is that whilst its popularity continues, they remain a cost-effective choice of treatment.

Are you seeking dentures and can’t quite figure out which one is right for your smile? The guide provided here will help you to learn everything you need to know about what dentures are available and what they entail. You may also speak to a dentist as they can any questions you may have. 

What Different Types Of Dentures Are Available?

Let’s get started and look at the different types of dentures you can choose for your smile.

Full (Conventional) Dentures

Full dentures are removable prosthetics that replace all teeth in your mouth and sit on the upper and lower gums. Conventional dentures are acrylic and act as a full replacement for your whole teeth, allowing you to grin confidently. If you’re looking for a full replacement but still have one or two teeth that need removing, the dentist will require you to have your teeth pulled for at least two months before full dentures may be placed.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures may be an option if you still have some natural teeth left intact. These are designed to bridge gaps in your mouth through metal clasps. They secure the false teeth to your natural teeth. With some of your natural teeth still intact, you’ll have minimal issues when biting and chewing.

Temporary Dentures

Temporary dentures are teeth that can be worn immediately after your natural teeth extraction. These are normally used as a temporary solution before your full dentures arrive and are only worn for 6 to 8 months.

Dentists frequently offer temporary dentures as an interim solution so that you can become accustomed to wearing dentures sooner. The dentist will take measurements of your teeth so that your dentures are ready to wear. Once your jaw has healed, the goal is to ensure that your denture’s teeth stay in place.

Implant-Supported Dentures

An implant-supported denture is where the titanium screw typically used for a crown implant is infused into the jawbone to provide a stable base for dentures. Implants have a wide range of benefits, such as preserving mouth functioning, comfortable eating and speaking and general comfort. Although, it is an expensive choice, and treatment can last through multiple appointments. Multiple implants may cost more too.

What Will Help Me Choose The Right Dentures?

Now that you’re familiar with the different types of dentures, it comes down to preference. This wouldn’t typically be determined just by what you like, but what is important for your dental health, something that you can speak to your dentist about at your appointment.

Here are the factors to keep in mind:

The Number of Teeth To Replace

If all of your teeth need to be replaced, then you’re likely to consider full dentures, but parts may be a preference should you only need a few teeth-replacing.

External Dental Issues

The dentist will likely perform a pre-examination of your dental health before beginning denture treatment. The dentist will examine everything from your teeth, gums and bone to see the right fit. However, the dentist may identify that you’ve external dental issues to resolve first before having dentures fitted.

When The Dentures Are Needed

Is your dental health degrading fast due to missing teeth? You’ll need to consult the dentist as soon as possible, even if a single tooth is missing, as this can impact your bone and cause degradation. 

Material Allergies

The signs of denture allergies include regular itching or rashes in and around your gums and lips. This is something that many patients have experienced, and the acrylic material is likely irritating.

 

Some Further Tips…

There are many different types of dentures to choose from, but whilst some may look aesthetically pleasing, they may not necessarily be the right choice for long-term strong dental health. Therefore, it is important that you weigh up the right choice that benefits your facial structure. What is equally important is to take care of your dentures each day. The dentist will recommend some aftercare tips to keep your dentures strong.

Is dental plaque building on your dentures, and you’re struggling to remove it? If you wear dentures, dental plaque build-up can cause gum irritation and discomfort, leading to infection in the mouth. Dental plaque is one of the leading causes of plaque buildup around the gumline. If the dental plaque isn’t removed, this can become stuck in and around your teeth. 

Dental plaque does not only need to be away from your teeth but also your dentures. Therefore, it is important to understand how to remove plaque from dentures effectively so that your mouth and dentures remain healthy.

How Does Plaque Impact Dentures?

If you don’t follow a strong oral routine, then you’re increasing the risk of dental plaque accumulating. If you wear dentures, dental plaque can cause the following issues:

  • Infection on your gums, tongue and general mouth surface
  • Discolouration and staining of your dentures
  • Gum inflammation and irritation
  • Damaged dentures because of bacteria build-up inside the mouth
  • Tooth decay 

How Do I Remove Plaque From Dentures?

As a pre-requisite, dental plaque cannot be removed when dentures are worn in the mouth. Therefore, you need to remove the dentures from your mouth first to begin the cleaning process. 

Another pre-requisite is to ensure that you brush your teeth and clean your mouth to remove any bacterial deposits that coat your smile. 

When the dentures have been removed from the mouth, follow these steps to remove plaque:

  • Rinse Them – The first thing to do is to rinse your dentures in lukewarm water. With the denture material being quite brittle, ensure that you’re rinsing with soft pressure from the water.
  • Brush The Dentures – Brush your dentures as you would with your natural teeth. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and a mild soap to do so. Do not use anything abrasive or hard, as this can damage the dentures. When brushing the dentures, ensure that all surfaces of the denture are cleaned, not just the prosthetic teeth. Plaque can build anywhere. Therefore, cover every area when you’re cleaning your dentures. It is recommended that you brush your dentures every day.
  • Soak Them Overnight -When the dentures are removed for the night, make sure that you store them away in a clean container that’s full of denture cleanser. This will prevent the dentures from drying out at night.
  • Regular Cleaning At The Dentist – When you’ve fitted dentures, it is good to visit the dentist at least twice a year to get them professionally cleaned. The dentist will perform a routine check-up and clean your natural teeth as well to prevent plaque and tartar build-up. Plaque can move to your dentures from your natural teeth as well, and hence, keeping any appliances and your mouth clean is essential.

If you need to get your dentures checked, it is good to get them checked by the dentist. It is equally important that you keep in touch with your dentist if you’ve any questions about your dentures.

If you’ve any questions, then consult your local dentist today!

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