Everything you need to know about dentures
What are dentures?
Dentures are a set of artificial teeth and surrounding tissue that are created by your dentist and placed in your mouth as a replacement to your missing or removed natural teeth. There are two types of dentures, complete and partial.
Complete dentures can replace all the teeth on either the top or the bottom gum line and partial dentures are used to replace a few missing teeth. In both the cases, the artificial teeth are custom made to suit your mouth and give it a natural look and feel.
When do I need dentures?
The answer of this question depends on the condition of your natural teeth. Normally, dentists recommend dentures when many of your teeth are lost due to an injury or are damaged beyond repair.
While doctors try their best to save the natural teeth as far as feasible through fillings, root canals, crowns etc. but dentures may be necessary if you have not practiced good oral hygiene over the years leading to severe damage or decay, if you have lost many teeth in an accident, if you are going through a chronic illness for a long time which might mean the loss of teeth.
The chances of your dentist recommending dentures increase when you have lost several teeth and the remaining teeth are not strong enough to support bridges or other forms of oral implants.
Are dentures the right choice?
Dentures not only replace several missing teeth without putting much pressure on the remaining teeth and gums, but it also improves the structure of the mouth by keeping the shape of the cheeks and lips intact.
Secondly, dentures are a viable option to replace teeth that are severely damaged without causing discomfort and pain to the weakened gum. It might take you a few days to get accustomed to your dentures but once they are properly fitted in your mouth they might start to feel like your natural teeth.
Next, it enables you to chew efficiently and keep your regular diet going without any hassle. Not to mention, dentures can actually help you get rid of chronic dental issues and pain.
How long do dentures last?
The longevity and proper functioning of dentures largely depends on how well you take care of them. Just like your natural teeth, dentures need to be well-maintained. On average, most dentures last from 5-8 years.
However, you might need adjustments and fittings on intervals because as your gum tissues start to recede, the dentures will not fit in your mouth and then they will need adjustments. This is one reason why staying in touch with your dentist is important because not getting ill-fitted dentures adjusted might cause mouth sores and irritation.
What does aftercare involve?
Once the surgery is done, your doctor will allow you sometime to feel better. Later, he might prescribe pain relieving medications and instruct you to eat fluid and semi-solid food for the next 48 hours. Drinking lots of water is advisable along with using ice packs for the swelling and bruising which may take 2-3 days to heal. You will be asked to avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks for a few days. Steer clear from strenuous and physically demanding activities. Also, don’t brush your teeth for the first 24 hours; instead, use mouthwash to keep your mouth clean. For any other doubt, it is best to stay in touch with your dentist for as long as you don’t feel accustomed and confident about taking care of yourself.
