Introduction to Dentures

Dentures (also known as false teeth) are artificial devices constructed to replace missing teeth. Mainly these are removable devices. Broadly they are classified as complete dentures, partial dentures and implant supported dentures.

Types of Dentures :
Complete dentures are the ones which are used to replace all teeth in patients where all teeth are missing. Complete dentures consist of two main parts, namely the artificial teeth and the denture base. An artificial tooth is used to restore the appearance of the natural tooth, its occlusion, oral function, and to assist in word pronunciation. The dental base is the foundation of the artificial tooth and can be used to restore the defective soft and hard tissues. Biting force is distributed from the artificial tooth through the denture base to the gums and bone.

Partial dentures are removable dental appliances used to replace one or more missing teeth, restoring both function and appearance. They are designed to fill the gaps left by missing teeth, preventing the remaining teeth from shifting and improving speech and chewing.

Implant-supported dentures are a type of overdenture that attaches to dental implants, offering a more secure and stable alternative to traditional dentures that rest on the gums. These can be of great value in lower arches where owing to less bone support the traditional dentures are not retentive.

How are the denture appointments made?
In Perfect Smile Dental Clinic we have 2 options

1. appointment system

  • 1st appointment -primary impression
  • 2nd appointment -secondary impression
  • 3rd appointment -jaw relation
  • 4th appointment -trial dentures
  • 5th appointment – final denture delivery

2 appointment system( fast track system)

  • 1st appointment – primary impression to trial denture
  • 2nd appointment- final denture delivery

What are the advantages of dentures?
Dentures offer a number of benefits, including:

  • Improved chewing.
  • Better appearance.
  • Improved speech function.
  • Better nutrition (due to improved chewing function)

What are the drawbacks of dentures?
Dentures also have their challenges — especially traditional removable dentures. For instance, many traditional denture wearers complain that their appliances shift, wobble or slip out of place when they’re speaking or chewing. In addition, your jawbone gradually shrinks following tooth loss, leading to facial collapse (like sunken-in cheeks).

For such problems other modifications of the dentures like implant supported or tooth supported dentures can be availed…
Instructions to the patients after denture insertion
A positive attitude will help you to adjust to the denture better.

Initial Wear and Adaptation:

  • Wear the dentures continuously for the first 24 hours: to get accustomed to them and identify areas that might need adjustments, such as sore spots or pressure points.
  • After the initial first day, remove the dentures for cleaning and oral rest.
  • Practice speaking with the dentures.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

  • Clean dentures after every meal.
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture cleanser: Avoid using regular toothpaste.
  • Rinse dentures thoroughly under water.
  • Soak dentures in plain water or a denture solution.
  • Avoid using hot water as it can cause them to warp.
  • Be careful when cleaning dentures over a basin to avoid dropping .

Eating with Dentures:

  • For the first few weeks, eat soft foods
  • Cut into small pieces. Chew slowly and evenly on both sides of your mouth
  • Avoid sticky food.
  • Be cautious with very hot or cold food
  • Gradually introduce firmer foods as you become more comfortable and skilled at eating with your dentures.