Welcome to our blog post titled ‘Understanding Dentures: A General Dentist’s Perspective.’ We’re taking you right into the heart of the dental world. Today, we are talking about dentures. You’ve probably heard of them. You might even know someone who has them. They are a common solution offered by financial district ca dental for those with missing teeth. But what are they, really? Let’s dig deeper into this subject and leave no stone unturned.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are artificial teeth and gums. They replace lost or removed natural teeth. Dentures can be full or partial. Full dentures replace all teeth on either the top or bottom gum line. Partial dentures only replace a few missing teeth.
The Making of Dentures
Creating dentures is a custom job. It requires skill and patience. Dentures must fit the mouth of the individual perfectly. The process involves taking a series of impressions of the jaw and measuring the space in the mouth. The final denture is then cast in a dental lab. The patient will have fittings and adjustments before the final product is complete.
Benefits of Dentures
Dentures improve quality of life. They make it possible to eat foods that require chewing, improve speech, and help maintain facial structure. Missing teeth can lead to facial muscles sagging over time. Dentures keep this from happening.
Types of Dentures
There are two main types of dentures. Complete dentures replace all teeth. Partial dentures replace only a few teeth. Complete dentures can be either “conventional” or “immediate.”
Getting Used to Dentures
It takes time to adjust to new dentures. At first, they may feel loose. Eating and speaking with dentures might require some practice. A bulky or loose feeling is not uncommon, while the muscles of your cheeks and tongue learn to keep them in place.
Longevity of Dentures
With good care, dentures should last several years. They may need to be remade, relined, or rebased due to normal wear. Also, as you age, your mouth naturally changes. These changes can affect the fit of the denture. Regular dental check-ups are important to ensure a healthy and comfortable fit.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. That’s a basic rundown of dentures. They are a tried and tested solution for missing teeth. If you are considering them, you should consult with a dental professional. They can provide valuable insights and advice tailored to your specific needs.