About 36 million adults in the United States have lost all of their teeth, according to the American College of Prosthodontics, and the majority of these individuals turn to dentures to restore their smile and chewing power. A denture is a prosthetic device that is removable but uniquely designed to fit the mouth securely. Two primary types of dentures exist: complete and partial dentures, and at Athens Smiles, we can help our patients with both.
COMPLETE DENTURES
Complete dentures are used when a patient has lost all of their teeth. These teeth replacements have an artificial gum and teeth that are designed to look like natural teeth. The dentures consist of two arches; an upper arch and a lower arch.
PARTIAL DENTURES
If you have some teeth remaining in your mouth, a partial denture is a good option. The partial denture is created around your natural teeth, so the prosthetic device works along with the teeth you still have to complete your smile. The existing teeth help to anchor the partial denture in place.
The Process of Getting Dentures Explained
When you have decided you want dentures, the dentist will create a plan of action to get you your new smile. If you have existing teeth remaining, the dentist will decide if these teeth are healthy enough to keep or if they have to be extracted. Keep in mind, if you do need extractions, it is important for your gums to fully heal before you are fitted for permanent dentures because the shape of your gums can change during the healing process.
Several molds and measurements will be taken of your mouth. The dentist will be determining how the denture should be formed to seat perfectly on your gum line without shifting and moving with these molds and measurements. Through the process, the dentist will also work with you to determine what shade of teeth would work best with your complexion, the length and appropriate size of the teeth to look as natural as possible, and more.
All of this information is supplied to a denture lab that will create the denture for you. Once the new teeth are complete, you will be brought back in for a denture fitting. If there are issues, adjustments can be made until the dentures fit just right, you have restored chewing power, and can speak clearly without the dentures shifting.
How to Get Used to Your New Dentures
Most people are happy with their new denture or partial denture from the start because it enhances their physical appearance. However, getting used to having the dentures in your mouth can require a bit of an adjustment period. You may talk a little funny or have a little bit of trouble when you chew, but with a few tips, your dentures will naturally grow to be like a natural part of your body. Remember these tips to help you get used to your new dentures:
- Keep your dentures in as much as possible
- Practice chewing small bites of food at a time; chew slowly and pay attention to how the dentures feel as you do
- Use denture adhesive to give the denture more stability if needed
Talk to the dentist if you experience any issues that d not subside. Sometimes, dentures need an adjustment or two before they are just right.
Reach Out to Athens Smiles in Athens, TX to Learn About Dentures
There is no reason to live your life without a smile to share. If you would like to know more about complete or partial dentures, reach out to Athens Smiles for more information.
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