Tooth Replacement Options: Complete or Partial Denture
Tuesday, March 13th, 2012When faced with the loss of several teeth due to infection, trauma or disease, a consultation with your dentist will help guide you and answer any questions you may have about dentures and the best options available for your situation.
A denture is a dental appliance made up to replace the number of teeth needed. A partial denture is the solution when only a few teeth are missing. However, when the entire upper or lower arch must be replaced, a complete denture is needed.
Replacing missing teeth is critical to our ability to eat, speak and smile. Tooth loss is not to be taken lightly as missing teeth can result in the shift of remaining teeth and bone loss over time. These facts can result in a poor diet, diminished overall health and even a change in facial appearance.
Dentures are made from acrylic resin which allows your dentist to match the shape and shade of the surrounding teeth making your partial denture indistinguishable from your remaining teeth.
When replacing either the upper or lower arch (or both), your dentist will help you select the closest fit to enhance your appearance while offering you comfort and functionality.
Whether you are fitted with a complete or partial denture, an adjustment period is generally needed to get used to your new dental appliance. Quite often saliva production is increased and the ability to eat and speak requires a little time to feel natural again.
Taking care of your denture is like taking care of your own teeth with a few exceptions. A partial denture should be removed before brushing your permanent teeth. Toothpaste and gel can contain abrasives that can scratch a denture. You should only use a product intended for dentures to brush your dentures.
When not in your mouth, it is best to store your denture in a glass of water or cleaner. A denture can dry out making it susceptible to cracking or breaking.
Never place your denture in boiling water to clean it, as heat can warp your denture.
The dentist will probably have you return to the office several times during the initial period of wearing your new denture to make sure you are getting the benefit of a perfect fit and to make the adjustments needed for you to get the most out of your new dental appliance.
To learn more and to schedule your consultation, call the office of Dr. Richard Sousa, serving Long Island, today.