For generations, dentures from a dentist near you have been a popular solution for tooth loss for thousands of people in Edmonton. Even as other options — such as dental implants — have emerged, dentures have remained an economical and effective choice. Are they right for you? Here are some facts and tips about getting and wearing dentures to help you decide.
Six Facts About Dentures
According to one study of populations in 19 different countries, nearly one in five people wear either full or partial dentures.
Dentures can either be full or partial. Full dentures (sometimes referred to as complete dentures) replace all-natural teeth in one or both jaws. Partial dentures near you replace multiple neighbouring teeth in a jaw that still contains some natural teeth.
Dentures do more than just replace teeth. At the same time as they replace some or all teeth in a jaw, dentures also provide structural support for your cheeks and lips. When you lose teeth, the loss of the support they provide to your cheeks and lips can cause your face to take on a sunken appearance as facial muscles sag. Wearing dentures helps avoid a prematurely aged appearance.
Dentures in Edmonton are not off-the-shelf restorations, but are designed and made to fit your gums and mouth specifically. Your dentist will perform the examinations and measurements necessary to prepare the customized dentures which will be crafted by denturists and technicians at a dental laboratory.
Wearing dentures does not eliminate the need to brush your “teeth.” To keep your dentures looking natural, you should clean them daily by brushing them with a non-abrasive denture cleaner using a toothbrush or denture brush.
Your dentist will ensure your dentures are fitting and performing properly by inspecting them and your gums carefully at regular dental checkups and making adjustments and occasionally re-lining them to ensure they fit. Dentures don’t last forever because the materials gradually wear and the shape of your jaw and gums gradually changes. You should expect to need your dentures to be replaced every five to seven years.
Five Tips About Wearing Dentures
Today’s well-designed and well-maintained dentures remain in place based on suction and often without requiring adhesives. Having said that, to improve the retention of dentures and reduce the accumulation of food beneath your dentures you can use denture adhesive.
Soaking your dentures in a cleansing solution daily or overnight will help to remove plaque that accumulates on your dentures and to disinfect them.
Speaking of overnight, do not wear your dentures overnight (except the very first night after getting them and as directed by your dentist). Wearing your dentures overnight will increase the risk of infections and gum soreness.
Clean your dentures over a sink full of water or a towel. The dentures will be slippery when wet and can break if dropped onto a hard surface.
Wearing dentures is not a substitute for and does not reduce the importance of attending regular checkups at a dental clinic in Edmonton. Regular checkups are still important because they’ll allow your dentist a chance to ensure they’re working properly, and that your gums are healthy. They’re especially important if you still have natural teeth… and want to keep them.
If you’re trying to find out your best options for replacing your missing teeth — in one or both jaws, and whether you’re missing a few or all your teeth — dentures and dental implants are two good options. To help determine which option is the best for meeting your needs and supporting your lifestyle, make an appointment with a dentist near to get advice and recommendations.
