Dentures, sometimes referred to as false teeth, can be made with different applications in mind. There are fixed dentures and removable dentures, and each will be cared for based on the type of denture you have.
A fixed denture is permanently placed, and based on the number of teeth to be supplanted, there are multiple ways to complete treatment.
If one or two teeth together are missing, a three or four unit denture may be fabricated. In this case, the abutment teeth (the teeth on either side of the missing ones) will be examined for their ability to support the prosthetic. If there is no evidence of gum disease or excessive decay in the abutment teeth, they can be used as the anchor teeth.
The abutment teeth will be prepared as if to be crowned. The denture will have crowns on either side of the false teeth (pontics). When the dentist is preparing the patient for dentures, impressions will be taken and shades matched to surrounding teeth. The dental lab will make the denture and return it to in about two weeks.
A fixed denture is permanently placed, and based on the number of teeth to be supplanted, there are multiple ways to complete treatment.
The denture will be tried in for a comfortable fit and aesthetic match. Once both patient and dentist are satisfied, the denture will be permanently cemented in place. Caring for this type of denture is the same as surrounding biological teeth … daily brushing, flossing, and visits with the dentist for cleaning and exam.
A more economical unit is one that is removable. In this case, the denture is most often attached with some type of clasp to adjacent teeth. The unit is removed every night. When not in place, a removable denture should be stored in an appropriate container that will help keep it moist.
Cleaning a removable denture can be completed using a denture soak, but is never to be boiled or microwaved as this could warp the denture impacting how it fits. If not soaked, a brush and paste designed specifically for cleaning dentures can be used. A toothbrush and regular toothpaste or gel can be too abrasive for dentures, so always brush your natural teeth before placing the denture.
If your denture feels uncomfortable or ill fitting, your dentist can make needed adjustments. Just call (972) 218-0078 to make an appointment. Do not attempt to make corrections on your own as even a minor change can ruin your denture.
