Answering Common Questions About Dentures

Dentures have come a long way in recent years, so it is understandable that the general public has an idea of dentures that is partly old-fashioned and partly misplaced. Here at Koster Denture Clinic, we want our patients to understand the nature of their care so they know what to expect. That’s why we’ve assembled this list of frequently asked questions regarding dentures.

How Will I Look Wearing My Dentures?

While new dentures may feel out of place initially, you should remember that your dentures have been uniquely designed to fit your mouth. When you wear your dentures, you’ll appear to have a natural smile to the other people around you.

Alternatively, when you are missing several teeth and don’t get dentures, it is common for your facial muscles to sag, making you look older. Getting dentures will give you a natural-looking smile while preventing your facial muscles from sagging.

Will Dentures Feel Strange in My Mouth?

In the beginning, you’ll likely require an adjustment period of roughly two weeks before you are accustomed to wearing them. While your dentures are designed to fit comfortably into your mouth, most people find it unusual to keep dentures in their mouth at first.

While you may feel some initial discomfort or experience an excess of saliva, the more you wear your dentures, the more you’ll get used to them. Eventually, your dentures will feel comfortable or unnoticeable.

On the other hand, if you find your dentures remain uncomfortable after two weeks, you should consider scheduling an appointment for denture repairs and adjustments to see if you have a minor issue that should be fixed. You can also opt for dental implants, which are more stable and can provide more comfort.

Will Dentures Change How I Speak?

While many people notice minor changes in their speech when they first try out their dentures, this change is usually overcome with practice. You may appear to have a lisp or another speech abnormality in the beginning, but your speech will quickly improve with practice until, eventually, your speech will return to normal.

What are the Different Types of Dentures?

As you might expect, different types of dentures exist, each designed to suit the varying situations that people might require. For example, you can get fixed partial dentures if you need to fill in any gaps you might have where you are missing one or more teeth.

Likewise, you can get partial dentures, which are removable, whereas fixed partial dentures are non-removable. In either the case of fixed or regular partial dentures, they may be attached to adjacent healthy teeth or prior restoration work.

Besides partial dentures and fixed partial dentures, you can have full dentures or dental implants. In either case, the dentures are meant to act as a replacement for your entire set of teeth. The difference between full dentures and dental implants is that full dentures sit on top of your gums, whereas dental implants are fixed securely in place and attach to a solid support foundation.

Both types of dentures are removable, but dental implants require healthy gums and teeth bones. If you are unsure what type of dentures you require, you should book an appointment with us for a consultation.

Can You Get Cavities with Dentures?

The false teeth in your dentures cannot get cavities because they are made out of plastic, acrylic and metal instead of the natural materials in your teeth. However, the myth that people who wear dentures don’t have to pay close attention to their oral health care as people without dentures is misleading and can be dangerous.

Firstly, in the case of partial dentures, you will still have some, if not many, natural teeth in your mount that you need to keep clean. Even in the case of full dentures, you must regularly clean your dentures every day to prevent issues like

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Gum Disease

• Endocarditis

• Pneumonia

• Pregnancy and Birth Complications

• Bad Breath

Those with dental implants must be particularly mindful of the dangers of gum disease since healthy gums are required for implants to be used. However, anyone who does not practice good oral health care will be susceptible to unexpected denture problems given some time.

Is It Difficult to Clean Dentures?

Whether you opt for partial dentures, full dentures or implants, you must practice proper oral hygiene. Taking good care of your dentures starts with the regular care that you’re already used to applying to your teeth: brushing at least twice a day, flossing once a day and making regular appointments to see your dentist for checkups.

Cleaning your dentures can be challenging when you’re not used to regularly completing the routine, but it becomes easier over time. First, you must remove your dentures and clean them over a soft surface or bowl or water to prevent them from breaking if dropped.

Second, use non-abrasive cleaners to softly remove leftover food from your dentures. Third, brush each surface – not just the areas that resemble teeth – with a denture brush. Finally, check for any signs of stains or scales building up on your dentures. If you find stains or scales, you should bring your dentures to your dentist for a cleaning.

While this general guide can serve as a reminder regarding how you should clean your dentures daily, there’s no substitute for the complete advice you’ll receive when you get your dentures. Always pay close attention to the guidance you receive from our team, and be sure to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

How Can I Get More Answers?

Speaking with a professional is the best way to get any questions about dentures answered. Our team is happy to provide you with all the information you need to get started on the road to better oral health care and improved use of your teeth.

If you’ve been considering getting dentures, please do not hesitate to contact us at Koster Denture Clinic. Call us today.