A denture is an appliance used when one or more teeth have been lost. For replacing one or a couple of teeth, a partial denture is the best option. A removable partial denture is made up of the replacement tooth or teeth attached to a plastic base. The base is gum tissue color for aesthetics and is used to secure the denture with metal framework that is affixed to surrounding natural teeth.
The option of a fixed partial is also available. Permanently attached to healthy natural teeth, this partial denture does away with the question of removing at night.
When trauma, disease or decay results in the loss of all teeth in either the upper or lower arch, a complete denture may be recommended. Since there are no teeth to keep a complete denture in place, a custom fit is critical to the appearance and comfort of the wearer.
You will likely see your dentist for numerous visits over the period of time from the beginning of the denture process until a couple of weeks after you’ve received your final denture.
If you are undergoing the conventional denture process, you will see your dentist for dental impressions, model wax-up and numerous try-in appointments to make sure the appearance and fit are precise. Your dentist will make adjustments so that the final denture will be the correct tooth size and the tooth shade will match your remaining natural teeth.
After your final denture has been fabricated and delivered, small adjustments will likely be needed. You may find yourself returning to the dentist on a daily basis, as aesthetics, comfort and functionality must be the priority no matter how many adjustments are needed.
Wearing your denture 24/7 initially will expedite the adjustment period. Once attained, removing your denture during the night to allow gum tissue a chance to rest is optimum. Keeping the plastic base soft by soaking the denture throughout the night along with keeping the “teeth” clean with the recommended denture soak will enhance your denture’s appearance and comfort. Ultimately following your dentist’s advice offers the greatest chance for the best denture experience possible.
If you are considering dentures as an option to improve your smile, contact The Dental Place at 972-264-5795 and make an appointment today.