What are dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances that restore your smile by replacing missing teeth. Dr. Ahmed typically recommends dentures if you have a periodontal disease or cavities that have advanced to the point where tooth extraction is the only option.
Depending on your condition and the current state of your teeth, a few different denture options are available:
Conventional
After Dr. Ahmed removes your remaining teeth and your tissues heal, he fits a fully-removable denture in your mouth. The healing process could take several months.
Immediate
Dr. Ahmed inserts a removable denture on the same day he removes your remaining teeth. He takes measurements and makes models of your jaw during a preliminary visit. You don’t have to be without teeth during the healing period, but you may need to have your dentures adjusted or remade after your jaw fully heals.
Overdenture or partial denture
Sometimes Dr. Ahmed can save some of your teeth to preserve your jawbone and provide stability and support for your new dentures. An overdenture fits over a small number of your remaining natural teeth, which function similarly to dental implants.
What are the benefits of dentures?
Losing all your teeth causes your facial muscles to sag, giving you an aged appearance. Dentures, however, fill out your face and can be made to resemble your natural smile, so your appearance doesn’t change significantly. Plus, they allow you to eat and speak better.
How should you care for your dentures?
Caring for dentures is like caring for your natural teeth. You should brush your dentures daily to remove food particles and plaque and help prevent staining. Other denture care recommendations include:
- Rinse your dentures before brushing to remove any loose food or debris
- Use a soft toothbrush to brush all the surfaces of the dentures gently
- When you brush, clean your gums, cheeks, the roof of your mouth, and tongue
- When you’re not wearing your dentures, put them in a safe place covered in water
What should you expect after getting dentures?
It’s normal for your new dentures to feel awkward for a few weeks while your cheek muscles and tongue learn to keep them in place. It’s not unusual to experience minor irritation and soreness at first. You might also notice an increase in saliva flow.
As your mouth becomes accustomed to your new dentures, these minor issues should go away. Dr. Ahmed and his staff recommend scheduling follow-up appointments so he can check the fit of your dentures and adjust them if necessary. Call Healthy Smiles of Orlando or schedule an appointment online to see if dentures are the right option for you.