People lose their teeth for a variety of reasons ranging from tooth decay, gum disease, or some type of dental abnormality.  Others lose their teeth because of an accident or injury that occurred or a medical condition, such as, acid reflux, that may have caused tooth decay and loss.   When a person loses their teeth for whatever the reason may be, there are many different denture options that are now available to them, depending on the situation.

Dentures fall into several different categories.  A number of factors affect their classification.  These include the number of teeth they replace, the material that comprises them, and the manner in which they are held in the mouth.

• Full dentures replace all natural teeth.  They can include the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both.  The gums and teeth of dentures are both most often made with acrylic material.
• Immediate dentures are created from molds before natural teeth are extracted.  They are put in place immediately after the natural teeth are removed, so the patient does not undergo any length of time without teeth.
• Implant supported dentures, also known as retained dentures, contain attachments to dental implants to reduce their movement.  A titanium post surgically attached to the jawbone serves as an anchor for the dentures.
• Partial dentures replace missing teeth where some natural teeth still remain.  Metal clasps are used to fit the partial denture around existing teeth in a secure fashion.

Caring for dentures

Regardless of which type of dentures you have, they require regular maintenance in order to avoid damage.  According to Mayo Clinic,

“Dentures require proper care to keep them clean, free from stains and looking their best.”

There are a number of recommended practices for doing this.  For example, after eating, remove and rinse your dentures.  Either place a towel in the sink or fill it with water to ensure your dentures do not break should you drop them.  Clean your mouth whenever you remove your dentures.  A soft-bristled toothbrush works well for any natural teeth as does gauze for your tongue, cheeks, and palate.

Brush your dentures at least once daily.  Soak them in a nonabrasive denture cleanser and brush them to remove stains and deposits.  Clean the section that sits against your gums to remove any remaining denture adhesive.

Dentures often need to be soaked overnight to keep their shape.  Outside of constant moisture, they may warp, bend, and lose their shape.  Use water or denture-soaking solution to soak dentures overnight.  Consult with your dentist about proper ways to store them.  Act in accordance with manufacturer instruction regarding cleaning and soaking solutions.  Rinse dentures prior to putting them in your mouth.  This is particularly important if you use a denture-soaking solution, considering these solutions may contain harsh chemicals.  Failure to rinse off the solution may lead to pain, burns, or vomiting.

Follow your dentist’s advice when it comes to regular visits for having your dentures examined and cleaned professionally.  Your dentist can both ensure your dentures fit properly and make sure the inside of your mouth is healthy.

It’s important to avoid abrasive cleaning materials and stiff-bristled brushes.  Whitening kinds of toothpaste are abrasive and should not be used on dentures.  Any products containing bleach have the potential to alter the color of dentures and weaken their structure.  Dentures that have metal attachments should not be soaked in solutions containing chlorine, as this can corrode and tarnish the metal.  Hot or boiling water can also warp dentures.

If you or a loved one is thinking about getting dentures, partials or implants, please call us to schedule an appointment with our doctor to discuss all of your options today.  We also have an on-site denture lab where we are able our dentures and make one-hour repairs   Contact McBride Dental at our San Marcos office today to schedule an appointment.

Sources:

http://www.mayoclinic.org/denture-care/expert-answers/FAQ-20058375

https://www.mcbridedental.com/our-services/one-hour-denture-repair/