Complete Dentures
What Are Complete Dentures?
Reasons to choose Complete Dentures
Gaps between the Teeth or Unstable Teeth
Expert dentists consider shifting or unstable teeth an indication of more severe gum disease. In such situations, the dentist may have to perform the periodontal treatment or extract the teeth.
Chronic Toothaches
Serious tooth pain is a failsafe proof that tooth decay has worsened to the point where it has affected the nerve in the tooth’s center. Early detection may allow the dentist to treat the affected tooth with a simple filling. If the situation has worsened considerably, the dentist may need to remove the impacted teeth and recommend partial dentures.
Swollen, Sensitive, Inflamed, or Bleeding Gums
Inflamed gums are often an indication of developing gingivitis or periodontal condition. Sadly, gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. It is estimated that three out of four people will suffer from gum diseases sometime in their lives. If left untreated, gum disease can worsen into tooth loss, causing the need for dentures.
Pros of Complete Dentures
- They help you eat and chew comfortably
- They can improve your confidence and self-esteem.
- They give you a more youthful appearance.
- They help you speak properly.
- They are a cost-effective teeth replacement.
Cons of Complete Dentures
- They require maintenance like repairs and relining.
- The retention for lower dentures declines over time.
- Sometimes, they can slip out of place when eating or speaking.
The Benefits of Wearing Dentures
- Modern dentures are designed to be comfortable, as well as perform the functions of natural teeth.
- You no longer have to have restrictions on what you can eat. With dentures, you can eat all the foods you used to eat before you lost your teeth. However, your dentist may advise what foods to eat in moderation to preserve your dentures.
- Dentures restore your smile and eliminate any social awkwardness you may have felt about the gaps in your teeth.
- Without your teeth, your facial muscles will start to sag. Dentures replace the support in your face, once created by your natural teeth, to help keep your facial appearance and prevent you from looking older.
- The loss of teeth also means oral bone structure will begin to perish. Dentures decrease the rate at which these bones disintegrate.
- If you have any remaining teeth, partial dentures prevent excessive wear and tear on your natural teeth, as chewing forces are evenly distributed to all teeth.
- All traditional dentures are removable, which allows for proper cleaning.
- A lack of teeth can impact the way you pronounce words. Dentures eliminate this problem and make it easier to speak.
- Dentures are available in natural-looking porcelain or plastic materials that create a natural-looking smile.
- Dentures are a cost-effective treatment option, especially if there are natural teeth still present in the mouth.
Types of Complete Dentures
Complete Dentures
Partial Dentures
Before And After
Complete Dentures Procedure
Step 1
The first step is consultation. The dentist has to carefully assess the overall condition of the teeth, gums, and even bones. A variety of examinations including physical and imaging tests are carried out. If there are lingering issues such as a root canal infection, they are treated first to avoid further damage.
Step 2
Before the dentures can be attached, the damaged or decayed teeth have to be extracted first. During the procedure, local anesthesia is administered to numb the pain. If the patient is restless, nervous, or anxious, sedation may be given.
Step 3
Using tools such as forceps and drills, the teeth are removed from the roots and tissues one by one. It may take a couple of visits to the dentist before all teeth are extracted.
Step 4
Teeth impressions are obtained once all the affected teeth have been extracted. The patient may be provided with temporary dentures to ensure ease of biting and eating. The dentures can also be used while the gums are healing.
Step 5
In the next appointment, the dentures are then fitted into the mouth, making sure that they snuggle nicely into the roof or palate.
Post-Op Care for Complete Dentures
- Keep your dentures seated in place by gently biting down.
- Rest at home today, and keep talking to a minimum.
- Do not take your denture out until you see either your dentist or your oral surgeon.
- Wear your cold packs over the surgical areas for the rest of the day.
Aftercare
- To keep your mouth healthy, it is important to look after your dentures. Clean your dentures in the morning as well as before going to bed. You might also want to rinse them in cold water after meals. Remember to gently brush any parts of your mouth that are normally covered by the dentures using a soft toothbrush. This includes your gums as well as the roof of your mouth. After cleaning, you can either keep the dentures in a cup of fresh cold water or a clean dry container. Rinse your dentures using fresh cold water before you put them on again. There are a few other things you can do for a healthy mouth which include:
- Consuming nutritious food
- Avoid any kind of sugary food or drink, especially between meals.
Risks and Complications
- Pain
- Dentures that are uncomfortable
- Loss of teeth
- Bleeding gums
- Swelling
- A gum abscess
- Ulcers that last over two weeks
- Bad breath
- Soreness or cracks in the corner of your mouth
FAQ's
Can you wear complete dentures to bed?
What to expect when getting full dentures?
How long does it take to heal from complete dentures?