|
Is there a difference between conventional dentures and
immediate dentures?
Complete dentures are also called conventional or immediate
according to when they were inserted in the mouth and when they were
made.
Immediate dentures are placed right after the removal of the
remaining teeth. The dentist takes measurements and models of the
patient's jaws in a consultation visit.
The advantage of immediate dentures is that the patient doesn't
have to be without teeth during the period of healing. This is
because the bones and gums shrink over time, in particular the
healing period of the first six months. When gums shrink, immediate
dentures may require rebasing or relining to fit properly. A
conventional denture can then be made once the tissues have healed.
Healing may take at least 6-8 weeks
What is a Denture? What are the differences between complete and
partial dentures?
A removable placement for missing teeth
and adjacent tissues are called dentures. Dentures consist of
acrylic resin, sometimes with different types of metals. Complete
dentures replace all teeth in your mouth, but a partial denture
fills the spaces created by missing teeth and also prevents other
teeth from changing position. Complete dentures are considered
either "conventional" or "immediate." A conventional denture is
placed in the month a month after all teeth are removed so it can
properly heal, but an immediate denture is placed right after the
teeth are removed. The bad thing about immediate dentures is that it
could require additional adjustments after healing.
How do you care for a denture?
A denture is fragile, so it is important to handle it with
care. Remove and brush the denture daily, preferably with a brush
designed specifically for cleaning dentures, using either a denture
cleanser or toothpastes. Never use harsh, abrasive cleansers,
including abrasives toothpastes, because they may scratch the
surface of the denture. Don't sterilize your denture with boiling
water because it will cause it to become warped. If you wear a
partial denture be sure to remove it before brushing your natural
teeth. When not in use, soak it in a cleanser solution or in water.
Get in the habit of keeping the denture in the same safe and handy
place to reduce the likelihood of misplacement.
Who needs a denture?
Candidates for complete dentures have lost most or all of
their teeth. A partial denture is suitable for those who have some
natural teeth remaining. A denture improves chewing ability and
speech, and provides support for facial muscles. It will greatly
enhance the facial appearance and smile. What happens when you get a
denture?
A dentist can make a full conventional denture when all teeth
have been lost or all extraction sites have healed (up to eight
weeks or longer.) The denture process takes about one month and five
appointments: the initial diagnosis is made; an impression and a wax
bite are made to determine vertical dimensions and proper jaw
position; a "try-in" is placed to assure proper color, shape and
fit; and the patient's final denture is placed, following any minor
adjustments. New denture wearers need time to get accustomed to
their new "teeth" because even the best fitting dentures will feel
awkward at first. While most patients can begin to speak normally
within a few hours, many patients report discomfort with eating for
several days to a few weeks. To get accustomed to chewing with a new
denture, start with soft, easy-to-chew foods. In addition, denture
wearers often notice a slight change in facial appearance, increased
salivary flow, or minor speech difficulty.
Should a denture be worn at night?
While you may be advised to wear your denture almost
constantly during the first two weeks- even while you sleep-under
normal circumstances it is considered best to remove it at night.
Research has shown that removing the denture for at least eight
hours during either the day or night allows the gum tissue to rest
and allows normal stimulation and cleansing by the tongue and
saliva. This promotes better long-term health of the gums. Continue
seeing your dentist regularly
It is important to continue having regular dental checkups so
that a dentist can examine oral tissues for signs of disease or
cancer. As of aging, your mouth will continue to change as the bone
under your denture shrinks or recedes. To maintain a proper fit over
time, it may be necessary to adjust your denture or possibly remake
your denture. Never attempt to adjust a denture yourself and do not
use denture adhesives for a prolonged period because it can
contribute to bone loss. When in doubt, consult your dentist.
Is there any type of alternative to dentures?
A. Dentures aren't the only way to restore a mouth that has no or
barely any restorable teeth. Implants can now be used to cement
bridges permanently, which takes out the need for a denture.
Implants are more expensive, but they resemble natural teeth more.
Dental implants are becoming a popular alternative to dentures, but
sadly, not everyone is a candidate for implants. Call your dentist
for a consultation to see which is best for you.
|