A Guide on Dentures: What You Should Know

Author:  Paul Melody          Photo courtesy of Pixaby

There are many instances when somebody will require dentures. Not only will these dental appliances help to improve a smile, but they can be used to address functional issues such as the inability to eat specific foods.

After research was conducted across 19 countries, it was found that 19% of the population wore dentures. As we have probably guessed by now, the majority of these are elderly people.

Do you think dentures are the right solution for you? Let’s examine the basics so that you can better appreciate the potential benefits. 

What are Dentures?

Sometimes referred to as “false teeth”, dentures are removable appliances that will help to restore your teeth to their former glory. These dental prosthetics can be attached in various ways, and they are often used by those who have experienced oral health issues in the past. 

While many of us associate dentures with a full set of teeth, there are a handful of possible configurations. Common examples include:

  • Complete top or bottom dentures
  • Partial dentures (used to replace a series of missing teeth)
  • Dentures supported by implants.
  • Snap-in dentures (offering an increased level of convenience)
  • Custom dentures

Of course, the purpose of any of these variants is still the same. The main point here is that you will likely benefit from dentures if your teeth are no longer functioning as they should. Let’s also keep in mind that dentures can be fitted at any age. 

Who Can Benefit from Dentures?

Dentures are both functional and aesthetic. However, most people who opt for them are concerned about their ability to chew certain foods. There can also be times when dentures will help to keep any remaining teeth in place.

It is also important to mention that the best candidates for dentures will normally need to have healthy gums. Issues such as gingivitis otherwise might cause the dentures to be uncomfortable to wear. A dentist will normally be able to determine whether or not dentures are the right “fit” for you. 

The Advantages of Dentures

As mentioned earlier, the main benefit of dentures involves their ability to replace missing teeth. There are many times when individuals struggle with certain foods (specifically hard substances that require a significant amount of chewing). Well-fitted dentures will help you to avoid such circumstances.

Let’s also remember that the visual appearance of dentures is another extremely attractive quality. Modern technology has enabled cosmetic dentists to fashion a custom-made design that mimics the appearance of your natural teeth. So, you will no longer have to shy away from showing off those pearly whites!

Dentures are also known to help restore confidence. Many individuals who are missing teeth find it difficult to smile. Some may even encounter problems within social settings. Dentures can boost your self-esteem in no time at all.

You will be happy to learn that in terms of maintenance, dentures are a cinch to care for. These appliances can be removed for cleaning and they will last for years at a time with few functional concerns.

Finally, dentures are one of the most cost-effective dental appliances on the market. This cannot be said about other options such as implants (which can sometimes run well into the thousands of dollars for a single tooth). Those who happen to be governed by a tight budget will therefore often choose full or partial dentures. 

How Long Does It Take to Make Dentures?

Let us now assume that you are interested in what dentures might be able to offer. How long will you have to wait before a set is completed? There are several variables which will determine the answer to this question. Some factors can include:

  • The current state of your oral health (such as if any additional teeth need to be extracted).
  • The type of dentures (full dentures will take longer to make than partial configurations).
  • If one or more teeth need to be removed, the healing time.

The process of making dentures also involves several steps.

  • First, a dentist will take an impression of your gums. This is used to create a negative mold.
  • The dentures are then modeled.
  • If this initial mold fits properly within your mouth, it will be sent off to a laboratory to make a functional copy.
  • In most cases, patients will have to wait between six weeks and three months before their new dentures are ready. 

Customized Solutions for Your Oral Health Concerns

Millions of individuals from all walks of life have already experienced the benefits of dentures and you could very well be next. Feel free to speak with your dentist or an oral care professional if you would like to learn more about what this amazing technology can provide.

About our author:  Paul Melody is the owner of Bandon Dental, a dental practice that has been in operation since the 1980s. They offer cosmetic, general, and preventive care options for adults and children.

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