Dentures have come a long way in the last few decades, and there are now a wide variety of options available to replace natural teeth. Read on to learn more about dentures, their care, and other interesting facts about dentures and general dentistry in Carmichael, CA.

Partial Dentures vs. Full dentures
When most people think of dentures, they think of full dentures where the dentures replace all of your natural teeth. They can be fitted for your upper and/or lower jaw, are stuck into place with suction or a temporary adhesive, and can be removed as needed. Partial dentures, on the other hand, are able to replace teeth when the other remaining teeth are not able to support a bridge or other tooth replacement method. Partial dentures are fastened to the gum line and remaining teeth, and like full or complete dentures, they are easily removed.

Denture Materials
Historically, dentures were made of porcelain or plastic. More modern dentures are made of hard resins, however. These resins are not as durable as natural teeth, which is why they have to be periodically replaced. You should also be careful not to drop or break your dentures as the hard material can crack or chip if not cared for properly.

More Than Teeth
While dentures are commonly used to replace missing teeth and make your smile look complete, they actually serve more purposes than just that. They support the structures in and around the cheeks and lips where missing teeth create problems, they allow you to eat foods that wouldn’t be possible with missing teeth, and they can help with pain management and gum exposure. Dentures are often an important part of your oral and overall health.

Immediate Dentures
During the healing process after tooth removal, immediate dentures can be used to give you function in your mouth and offer a temporary solution until permanent dentures can be fitted and made. These dentures are more easily refitted than permanent dentures during periods of adjustment and swelling, which can last up to 6 months after extraction. Immediate dentures are then discarded and replaced with more permanent options.

Overdentures
For people with few natural teeth remaining or who experience aversion to or extreme discomfort with typical dentures, overdentures are another option. Overdentures are created to fit over existing teeth, dental implants, gums, or roots. They are more easily removed and are often found to be more comfortable than traditional dentures.

Cleaning Your Dentures
Just like natural teeth, dentures need to be regularly cleaned and cared for daily. Rinse them with clean water after meals, brush them with a soft toothbrush and denture cleaner daily, and clean your gums and remaining natural teeth while your dentures are out.

Denture Care
In addition to regular rinsing and brushing after meals, remove them at night, keep them from drying out by soaking them in water or a denture-safe solution, and avoid dropping or melting your dentures.

For more information about caring for your dentures or to schedule your next appointment for general dental care in Carmichael, CA, reach out to Now Dental by calling 1-916-966-2009!