What are dentures and how do they work?
Dentures are a solution for the replacement of lost or missing teeth. They are removable, prosthetic set of teeth that will give the appearance of a natural smile. Dentures can be removed from your mouth for cleaning. Both full and partial sets of dentures are available, so you can customize them to your needs. Dentures use the hard and soft tissues of your mouth for support and sit against your gums.
What’s the difference between full and partial dentures?
A full denture replaces all the teeth in the mouth, including both the upper and lower teeth. A partial denture replaces just the upper teeth or the lower teeth or can replace only a few teeth. If you are receiving full dentures, all the natural teeth in your mouth will be removed to make room for the prosthetics. Partial dentures, on the other hand, are a great option for patients that only need to replace a few teeth. There are a few options when multiple teeth need to be replaced. Dr. Mays will assess what restoration is best for your individual case.
How do I care for my dentures?
Dentures require daily care and cleaning, just like your natural teeth. Dentures are not immune to plaque and tartar buildup simply because they are false teeth. The same issues that can plague your natural teeth can affect your dentures. Brush your dentures daily, just like your natural teeth. When cleaning your dentures, stand over your sink with a towel below you, just in case you drop them (they’re delicate and can break if dropped). Use a soft-bristled brush to delicately brush your dentures to remove plaque and leftover food particles. In between more extensive daily cleanings like this, be sure to rinse your dentures after eating to wash away leftover food particles. Dentures should be kept in a denture cleaning solution when they are not being worn, keeping them clean and to avoid drying out.
If you are missing multiple teeth or believe you need a full or partial set of dentures, call Dr. Mays’ office today to schedule an appointment to discuss your options. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about the process at 513-321-1102.
