Here’s what you need to know about dentures

These days, properly fitted dentures are discreet and natural looking. The only thing that will show is your smile.

Dentures are removable dental prostheses. Essentially, they are a complete or partial set of replacement teeth. The main role of dentures is to help people chew food properly and keep the integrity of their jawbone intact. But dentures also significantly improve the cosmetic aspect of the face by correcting facial features which may have sagged with time, because of missing teeth.

• Removable complete dentures replace all the natural teeth, namely those of the upper and the lower jaws, and sit right on the gums.
• Removable partial dentures replace only a section of the mouth’s missing teeth. This appliance sits on the gums and between the remaining teeth and is held on with the help of hooks.

Feeling some discomfort when first wearing a new set of dentures is normal. But if they’re properly adjusted, you’ll quickly get used to them. Because the dentures feel like a foreign object in the mouth at first, your saliva flow may increase for a time. That, too, is quite natural and things will return to normal with time. Usually a month is enough time to get accustomed to dentures, following which you can treat yourself to your favourite meal with complete peace of mind.

Dentures need to be well cared for. To maximize your investment and your oral health, good hygiene practices must be followed to the letter.

• Brush your dentures and your gums regularly, especially after meals. Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste specially made for dentures.
• Remove your dentures before going to bed; soak them in water or in a special denture cleaner.
• Make sure to rinse, and even re-brush, your dentures before reinserting them in your mouth, and be sure to empty and clean the glass or soaking container every day.

It is normal for your dentures to get a little worn, with time. That is why it is important to have them checked by your denturist at least once a year. However, should your dentures break, fracture, or move around, consult the denturist as soon as possible for a repair or adjustment. One thing is sure: wearing dentures will make you want to smile again!