Missing at least one tooth can impact your smile, as well as the way you speak, talk, and socialize with other people. Thus, you don’t want to leave your mouth with such a flaw for a long time. You will want to find ways to fix the problems. With various tooth replacement options available these days, you might wonder if dentures are the right solution for you. Before you visit a Memphis, TN dentist and get dentures, read on to learn more about this dental solution:
How Dentures Work
Dentures are artificial teeth and gums customized to fit in a patient’s mouth. They can replace one or more missing teeth or an entire gum line. Once put on, dentures can help enhance your smile after you lost teeth. They support your mouth’s structure around the cheeks and lips. And if you have a problematic tooth, you can have it removed and replaced with a denture.
Kinds of Dentures
When it comes to dental dentures, your options include the following:
- Full dentures. You will want to get a full set of dentures if you want to replace an entire teeth arc. Full dentures suction against your mouth’s floor or roof, keeping them in place. But full dentures are not quite secure, particularly in the lower jaw.
- Partial dentures. These dentures are meant to replace just one or a few missing teeth. They squeeze between the natural teeth, with the base fitting along your mouth’s roof and floor. They remain in place due to suctioning. Also, they get support from the natural teeth surrounding them.
- Implant. This is a combination of dentures and dental implants. Implant fixtures are placed into the jawbone. Implant dentures offer extra stability, reduced bone loss, and structural support. Also, unlike traditional dentures, they do not need to be removed.
Cleaning and Maintaining Dentures
As with natural teeth, dentures can have bacteria and plaque buildup, creating problems for the gums and existing teeth. Therefore, they need to be cleaned at least once every day. When you clean the dentures, remove them from your mouth and clean them with warm water to get rid of food particles that may be stuck between teeth, along the gum line, or under the denture. Then, brush the dentures with a soft-bristled toothbrush with the use of mild soap or denture cleaner. Do not use an electric toothbrush or regular toothpaste because they can damage your dentures. In addition, consider taking your dentures out of your night every night before bed.