A denture is a dental appliance or prosthetic device to replace diseased or broken teeth. Both partial and complete dentures are available for the unique needs of patients. It is now also possible to secure dentures with dental implants.

Types of Dentures

Complete or full dentures are useful when one has lost all-natural teeth. Partial dentures are useful for filling the gaps between one’s natural teeth.

Complete dentures can be immediate or conventional.

Immediate dentures can be fit as soon as the teeth removal is complete as these are made well in advance. It is useful for those who do not wish to remain without teeth during the healing period after teeth removal. But you will need to spend considerable time in adjusting the dentures as your gums and jawbones shrink as the healing of the mouth and gums progresses.

Conventional dentures after the healing are complete post the teeth removal. So, the waiting period can be around 8-12 weeks before the dentures can be placed inside your mouth. 

Partial dentures are removable and are attached to a plastic base. The dentures can be connected to a metal structure if needed. If you have 1-2 teeth remaining intact in your mouth; your dentist may recommend a partial denture.

The right dentist can help you by recommending the best option for you. So, it is important to work with a qualified and licensed dentist in your area. You can find one easily with a simple online search. Use search terms such as dentures Springfield if you wish to find one in this city. Check the websites of the dentists you find on the search page to know more about their credentials and services.

Benefits

Dentures are helpful when you have lost all or almost all of your natural teeth. Without teeth, you will have difficulty in chewing your food. Also, your cheeks can sink deeper without teeth and make you look older than your real age. Dentures can help you avoid such problems and even restore your smile.

Dentures very closely resemble your natural teeth. Your denture will be made by taking into account your natural teeth color. If you have already lost all your teeth; your dentist will choose the natural color for the dentures. So, you don’t need to hesitate about the dentures looking odd on you. Using one will enhance your smile and benefit you in many ways.

Dentures can last you a long time. You might need to realign them from time to time as the shape of your mouth changes. You may require new dentures or need to realign them due to their normal wear and tear over the years.

Denture Care

You will need to care for your dentures just like your natural teeth. Daily brushing is essential to keep them in good condition for long. You will also need to keep them submerged in water when not in use such as at night.  

Hold them with care while cleaning. If you drop them; you might risk breaking or cracking the prosthetic. It can be helpful to hold them over a towel while cleaning them. It is also better to use a denture cleaner as recommended by your dentist.

Your dentist will guide you to properly care for your dentures. Regular checkups with your dentist will help you keep your dentures in top shape.

Denture Alternatives 

Dental implants offer a good alternative to dentures. But you may not be a good candidate for dental implants. Dentures might be a better fit for you instead. Your dentist will recommend the best treatment to restore your teeth and smile after assessing your jawbone’s condition and your specific requirements.

Dentures can also be fitted with the help of dental implants. Such an approach can help with the better fitting of the dentures. Partial dentures can also be better fitted with the help of dental implants.

Not all dentists may offer this option. So, be sure to ask about it during your initial consultation. Dentists offering this treatment are likely to inform you about it by themselves if they think using dentures with dental implants may be the best option for you.