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Dentures are an excellent option for replacing missing teeth. There are four main categories: partial dentures, complete dentures, over dentures, and instant dentures. The most common are partial and whole.

Partials help replace lost or missing teeth. Occasionally, the person's remaining teeth will support them. Dentures come in handy as excellent tooth replacements for several reasons. For example, the teeth next to it begin to move toward the gap after losing a tooth. Unfortunately, this results in different types of dental malocclusions. For instance, it may lead to tilted or crooked teeth. Indeed, this may affect a person's bite and could also damage other teeth.

While this happens, complete dentures take the place of all the teeth. These cover the gums with ease. Complete dentures can help someone talk effectively, eat more quickly and enjoyably, restore their smile, and replace missing teeth. In addition, the individual could raise their confidence and sense of self-worth.

4 Major Types

Complete Dentures

As the name suggests, these refer to total replacements of all teeth. They could be a complete set of upper or lower teeth or a combined set for the whole mouth.

These need to be fitted correctly for the best comfort, and if properly maintained, it can last between 5 and 10 years. Complete dentures can be created six months following tooth extraction and once the gums have fully recovered.

Partial Dentures

These fill in the gaps left by a few missing teeth to restore one's smile. In addition, they are designed to prevent the remaining teeth from slipping, maintaining a tooth's alignment. Finally, metal fasteners keep them in place over the natural teeth. Dentists also recommend these to assist a dental patient in eating food more efficiently and evenly distributing biting forces on natural teeth to avoid breakage or damage. Partials can be removable or fixed in place with dental implants or bridges.

Over Dentures

This is a removable dental prosthesis that fits over one or more remaining natural teeth or dental implants by snapping into place or via other means such as attachments. They are commonly used when there aren't enough remaining natural teeth to support a regular partial denture but there are still some healthy ones left that need to be preserved. An overdenture also helps reduce any further bone loss in the jawbone which often happens when there are no longer any tooth roots present in that area to stimulate it. Additionally, research has shown that overdentures can improve chewing ability and speech as well as provide psychological benefits such as increased self-esteem and confidence due to an improved appearance.

Immediate Dentures

An immediate denture is inserted on the same day that the natural teeth are removed. This type is recommended for patients who cannot remain without teeth during the healing process following tooth extraction. It is however important to note that since bones and gums shrink over time, this form requires more frequent adjustments compared to conventional ones which are made after healing has occurred. Immediate dentures are also used as a temporary measure until conventional ones are ready for placement, usually six to eight weeks post-extraction.

How Soon Can I Get Dentures?

Typically, dentures are ready for use immediately following tooth extraction. These are known as instant dentures. However, to obtain measurements and create mouth impressions, patients must book an appointment with the dental staff beforehand.

Furthermore, while waiting for the gums to heal, the patient can wear instant ones instead of going without teeth. Over time, particularly in the first six months after the teeth removal, gums and bones might deteriorate. If your gums dwindle, your immediate dentures may require replacing, adjusting, or relining. You can talk about this with a professional.

Sometimes a dentist would suggest waiting a few months until your gums heal before getting dentures. This primarily aims to provide a more precise and comfortable fit since the gum tissue would have shrunk by then. It is essential to follow what your dentist says to avoid any further complications.

How To Clean Them

The same applies to dentures, just like your teeth deserve continuous cleaning and routine care. The universal rule for cleaning them is to brush, then soak, and brush repeatedly. In the same way, it is essential to clean them in a bowl of water or a folded soft towel if you accidentally drop them. In addition, it is a must to brush them before soaking them to clear away any food particles.

Likewise, you can use a fizzy denture cleaner. These can significantly eliminate stubborn stains and leave them feeling cleaner and fresher. Remember that it is critical to adhere to the manufacturer's instructions. Afterward, brush the dentures as you would on your natural teeth. Be careful not to scrub them too hard, for this may cause hollows on the surface.

Be careful with your dentures. To protect them from breaking if you accidentally drop them, wrap them in a towel when handling them. Allow them to soak in cool water or a denture cleaning solution if you don't wear them to prevent drying.

Lastly, be more cautious when cleaning agents if your dentures contain metal attachments. This is because the chemicals may cause the metal to stain.

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