Dentures and Oral Health: How Can They Help?

Different Denture Types, What to Expect and Denture Care

Dentures can be complete or partial. They are removable and replace missing teeth. Aside from making it easier to chew, they also help your facial muscles and greatly improve your smile.

What Are Some of the Different Kinds?

Three common types include:

• Conventional. Conventional are complete dentures that a dentist gives you after you have all your teeth extracted and the tissue has healed. It may take several months for the tissue to heal.
• Immediate. After you have all your teeth extracted, instead of going without anything, your dentist can provide you with a temporary removable denture. The advantage is you don’t have to be without teeth. However, your may have to have dentures remade or relined once the jaw has healed.
• Overdenture. This is not complete but is a partial denture, also referred to as a partial. Dentists use them when some natural teeth remain or the individual has implants that can support the dentures.

What Should You Expect with New Dentures?

Slight irritation or soreness is common when you’re getting used to dentures. Your cheek and tongue muscles will adjust to hold the appliance in place and it may feel loose at first. Your mouth may produce more saliva than you’re used to as well. If you experience a significant amount of irritation or soreness, you should let your dentist know. Sometimes dentists can adjust dentures and that reduces the irritation.

Dental Care for Gums

Even though you no longer have teeth, good dental hygiene includes brushing your gums, tongue and the roof of your mouth. Brushing will remove plaque and stimulate circulation. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and brush daily.

Dental Care for Dentures

Always rinse and remove any food particles. You can use a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft toothbrush to clean the surfaces. If you take them out at night or aren’t wearing them, store them in water to keep them from drying out.

(Reference: Mouthhealthy)

Tell Us About Your Dental Concerns

At Hutto Hippo Family Dental, we help people of all ages to have healthy teeth and gums. We are glad to answer any questions you may have.