Adjusting to Life With New Dentures
Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. They can either be full, meaning they consist of replacement teeth for all your natural teeth, or partial, replacing only a few missing teeth. Dentures make it easier for patients to eat, speak, and live their lives.
Dentures can fill out the appearance of your face and profile, and are made to closely resemble your natural teeth.
Dentures may feel awkward in the mouth in the beginning, but in no time, you’ll grow used to them. As your facial muscles learn how to keep them in place, they may feel a bit loose, and you could experience some areas of minor irritation or discomfort. While your mouth is getting used to the dentures, you may also notice an increase in the flow of saliva. These problems will recede as your mouth gets used to having the dentures in place.
Once you receive your dentures, you will need to schedule follow-up appointments so the dentist can make sure the dentures are fitted properly and make any adjustments as needed.
SmileCare Dental also provides denture replacement and repair services in Fitchburg and surrounding areas, including Leominster (minutes away from our office), Lunenburg, Townsend, and Ayer, MA.
Types of Dentures
What are the different types of dentures?
Full Dentures
Complete, or full, dentures replace all the teeth and rest on top of the gums. We can create more stability when we use these dentures in conjunction with dental implants, which are small screws that are implanted into the gums
Partial Dentures
Implant-supported bridges are used when you are missing more than one tooth. We will place a dental implant in your gum and then use the implant to permanently cement the bridgework. The implants also work to simulate tooth roots, which can maintain the integrity of the jawbone.
Tips for Caring for Your Dentures
Even though you may wear dentures, you still must pay attention to your oral health. Brush your gums, tongue and roof of your mouth, and any remaining teeth if you don’t have full dentures. This will ensure plaque cannot build up and lead to gum disease. Your dentures should also be brushed regularly to remove food particles and plaque and to prevent staining.
- Rinse Your Dentures
Rinse your dentures before brushing to ensure you remove any loose food or debris - Use Soft-Bristled Brush
Use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive cleanser - Clean Your Mouth
Clean your mouth thoroughly before placing the dentures back in. - Keep in a Safe Place
Keep your dentures in a safe place when not wearing them – cover them in water whenever possible