Contrary to stereotypes, dentures cater to a diverse range of needs, providing a renewed sense of confidence for those facing severe tooth pain, chronic gum disease, severe decay, or dental injuries.
If you find yourself curious about dentures, whether you’re considering them, already own a pair, or simply want to enhance your knowledge, you’re in the right place. This article aims to unravel the mysteries surrounding dentures, shedding light on their types, necessity, alternatives, the fitting process, and essential care tips.
Understanding Dentures
Dentures, artificial teeth and gums crafted by dentists, step in to replace lost or extracted natural teeth. They can be full or partial, tailored to the top or bottom gum line, or to fill specific gaps. Each set is custom-designed and visually harmonised with your existing teeth.
Material Matters
For individuals missing teeth, dental prostheses, or dentures, offer a valuable solution. These prosthetics not only enhance speech and chewing but also contribute to restoring facial structure, preventing sagging skin resulting from tooth loss. Contrary to common misconceptions, dentures aren’t confined to bedside water-soaking rituals; they can be securely fixed using methods like dental bridges.
In the quest to regain your natural smile, it’s essential to explore the various materials available.
- Acrylic Resin: Acrylic resin, often termed plastic, reigns supreme in denture materials, as per the National Institute of Health. Recognised for its perfect fit and ease of adjustment, acrylic is a cost-effective choice. While it may wear faster than porcelain, regular maintenance and proper care can extend its lifespan. However, users should be mindful of bulkiness and the potential for breakage.
- Porcelain: Porcelain, known for its strength and durability, stands out despite a higher cost. Resembling glass, this ceramic material boasts a natural appearance with translucent features. The meticulous heating process during production results in robust dentures. Often preferred for full dentures due to its wear-resistant nature, porcelain’s durability justifies the investment.
- Partial Metal Dentures: Employing a metal base, partial metal dentures offer a smaller and more adaptable alternative to plastic or acrylic counterparts. Despite a higher cost and increased labor intensity in crafting, these dentures provide a discreet profile, blending seamlessly with natural teeth. The use of high-quality resin or composite teeth ensures colour matching for a natural aesthetic.
Why Opt for Dentures?
Contrary to common misconceptions associating dentures solely with the elderly, they are a viable solution for various individuals. Whether tooth loss stems from periodontal disease, injury, or illness, dentures can be instrumental in restoring your smile and oral health.
Common reasons for needing dentures include:
- Severe Tooth Pain: Advanced tooth decay may necessitate extraction, impacting your confidence to smile. Dentures offer a solution, providing a renewed sense of confidence.
- Chronic Gum Disease: Gum disease, a leading cause of adult tooth loss, may result in dental extractions. Dentures become a viable option to restore both function and aesthetics.
- Severe Tooth Decay: Complicated dental issues due to poor oral hygiene may lead to irreparable damage, prompting the need for dentures as a permanent solution.
- Dental Injury: Trauma from sports injuries can cause severe dental damage, leading to emergency extractions. Dentures, designed to mimic natural teeth, become a suitable replacement after healing.
Types of Dentures
Choosing the right type of denture is crucial, considering individual needs and dental conditions. Let’s explore the diverse options available:
- Complete Full Dentures: Ideal for those without any natural teeth, complete full dentures replace an entire set of teeth. Fitted onto the gums, these dentures are ordered shortly after the extraction of the last tooth and are placed within eight to twelve weeks.
- Partial Dentures: For individuals with some remaining healthy teeth, partial dentures offer a solution. Featuring a pink plastic base attached to a metal piece, they are removable and prevent natural teeth from shifting.
- Custom-Made Dentures: Crafted from high-quality ceramic or porcelain material, custom-made dentures provide a natural appearance, blending seamlessly with the rest of the teeth.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Utilising dental implants for enhanced stability, implant-supported dentures offer a longer-lasting solution compared to traditional options.
- Over Dentures: Sitting on the gums with support from dental implants, over dentures are removable and convenient, providing an alternative for both upper and lower jaws.
Remember, dentures aren’t exclusive to senior citizens; anyone, regardless of age, might find themselves in need.
To sustain an active lifestyle with removable or fixed dentures, book an appointment with our Friendly Dentist in Molonglo Valley. Contact Molonglo Dental Surgery at 02 6287 1222.
