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What are full and partial dentures?
What are dentures, and which types of dentures exist?
Dentures are custom-made dental appliances that replace missing teeth and restore functionality and aesthetics. The process involves two main steps:
- Your orthodontist in Atherton will create a model of your gums
- Your Atherton dental professional will craft dentures that fit perfectly in your mouth.
Dentures can be categorized into two main types: full dentures and partial dentures.
- Full Dentures are used when all teeth in an arch (upper or lower) are missing. They rest directly on the gums and help restore the complete smile and bite functionality.
- Partial Dentures are suitable when only some teeth are missing. They fill in the gaps and are typically anchored to the remaining natural teeth.
What are dentures made of?
Dentures are typically made from a combination of materials to ensure durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Here are the primary materials used by your denture dentist in Atherton:
- Acrylic resin: Most dentures have a base made from acrylic resin, miming the appearance of natural gum tissue. Acrylic is lightweight, easily adjusted, and offers a natural look.
- Porcelain: Porcelain is often used for the teeth in dentures because of its durability and similarity to natural tooth enamel in appearance and texture. Porcelain teeth are more resistant to staining and wear.
- Composite resin: Composite resin is an alternative to porcelain for denture teeth. It is less expensive and offers a good balance of strength and aesthetics. Composite teeth can be made to match the natural color of the patient’s teeth.
- Cobalt-chromium metal alloys: Partial dentures may include metal frameworks made from cobalt-chromium alloys. These metals provide strength and support to the denture while being lightweight and biocompatible.
- Flexible polymers: Some partial dentures use flexible polymers for a more comfortable fit. These materials can adapt to the movements of the mouth and provide a snug, secure fit without metal clasps.
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What are the benefits of dentures?
Dentures can boost your confidence by improving your ability to chew and speak, support facial muscles, and enhance your smile. They also help prevent remaining teeth from shifting. Below is a list of the main benefits a patient can gain from undergoing a denture procedure:
- Improved chewing ability: As mentioned, dentures restore and improve your ability to chew, allowing you to eat a variety of foods for better nutrition.
- Enhanced speech: Missing teeth can impair your ability to speak properly. Dentures can therefore help improve speech.
- Facial structure support: Tooth loss often results in a hollow look. By providing support to your cheeks and lips, dentures help maintain facial structure.
- Cost-effective: When multiple teeth need to be replaced, dentures are more affordable option when compared with dental implants.
- Customizable fit: Your dentist in Atherton will make sure your dentures are tailored to fit comfortably and naturally, ensuring a personalized solution for your missing teeth.
- Removable for easy cleaning: Dentures allow you to maintain proper oral hygiene thanks to the fact that they can be easily removed.
- Prevent shifting of remaining Teeth: Partial dentures help keep your remaining teeth in place, preventing them from shifting and causing further issues to your oral health.
How to ensure proper maintenance of your dentures?
Denture maintenance is relatively easy and requires the formation of good habits. Correct denture care includes:
- Daily cleaning of your dentures
- Soaking your dentures in a denture solution
- Attending regular dental check-ups to ensure a good fit and to monitor your oral health
How do you know if you need dentures?
Dentures are necessary for individuals who have lost teeth due to:
- Decay
- Gum disease
- Oral injury.
Common signs to look out for that could mean you might need dentures include:
- Difficulty chewing
- Having speech issues
- Noticing a change in facial structure
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