Dentures still remain a very popular option, even in the face of dental implants becoming more ubiquitous. They generally are more affordable for many people’s budgets.
While getting dentures is a detailed process, here are some basic things that can give one knowledge to go into it with some degree of confidence.
What Kind Of Dentures Do I Need?
It depends on the state of one’s mouth. Are there natural teeth that can be saved or did they have to be removed? If it’s the first scenario, then partial dentures are an option. Complete dentures are for those who have only gums left. There are also dentures that can be clipped on to implants should one have trouble keeping the denture in their mouths. People can choose from other options like custom dentures, implant-supported dentures, snap-on dentures and dentures for the upper or lower jaw.
What Are They Made Of?
Partial dentures are made out of metal and acrylic. There are other materials that are more flexible, but they sacrifice their ability to be repaired. The metal is usually the best option to give durability for chewing and talking.
Complete dentures tend to be made from an acrylic base that is gum-colored. The teeth are made of either plastic or porcelain.
What is the whole process?
If this involves getting partial dentures, the dentist may give a temporary one while the real one is being made. When it comes to complete dentures, he or she may prefer to let the gums heal fully if extraction was needed. That way, there will be an easier fit when the dentures come back from the lab.
Dentures have come a long way and computer technology has been very helpful in making them with very precise measurements- down to the millimeter. That makes for generally good-fitting dentures the first time – though adjustments may be needed from time to time.
Is There A Learning Curve?
Getting dentures is going to be an experience for first-time wearers. There’s something foreign in their mouths and it’s going to take some getting used to. They may feel self-conscious about talking for fear of the dentures shifting in their mouths. Eating is a whole new process.
Not to worry, though. People adapt to the dentures very quickly a vast majority of the time. Before they know it, they are talking and eating pretty close to how they did before. It just takes some concentration and a willingness to keep at it.
How Do I Take Care of Them?
Maintenance is one thing that will allow the dentures to last close to their 10-year lifespan. Brush them with a special toothpaste – regular toothpaste is too abrasive. Do that at least once a day, preferably after the last meal. Soak them overnight in a special solution.
Handle the dentures like the fragile things they are. They may seem durable, but they can break rather easily. Be gentle when removing them and be mindful when carrying them. Do not put them at the edge of a table – even a short fall onto a carpeted floor can wind up with less than stellar results.
If something should happen, do not try to fix them. Take them to the dentist and the office will be able to do any necessary repairs or reline the dentures. In the worst case, they will make a new one, which is much easier thanks to current dental technology.
Constantly monitor how the dentures feel. If there is lingering pain or if it’s worsening, go see the dentist. Ill-fitting dentures can cause more than just pain or irritation- they can cut the gums and lead to possible infection.
It may seem like a lot of information to retain, but Dr. Shaista Najmi and her staff at Ivory Dental Jacksonville will make it all easy. They will work with patients and gladly guide them from the initial consultation to helping after the final fitting. Give them a call to make an appointment – 904-998-1555.
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Ivory Dental
11362 San Jose Blvd Suite #7,
Jacksonville, FL 32223
Phone: (904) 998-1555
Website: https://ivorydentaljacksonville.com/