Dentures have been a reliable solution for patients who have lost some or all of their teeth. Traditional dentures, in particular, are a popular option for restoring both function and appearance. Learn more about traditional dentures in terms of the types, benefits, care tips, and what to expect.
What Are Traditional Dentures?
Traditional dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth made from acrylic resin or porcelain set into a base that resembles gum tissue. Dentures sit on top of the gums and are custom-made to comfortably fit in your mouth. Unlike modern alternatives like implant-supported dentures, traditional dentures do not require surgery or dental implants to be held in place.
Traditional dentures come in two main types:
Complete (Full) Dentures: These are used when all teeth in the lower or upper jaw need to be replaced. Complete dentures sit directly on your gums and cover the entire jaw arch. They are designed for patients who have lost all of their natural teeth in one or both arches.
Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain, and they fill in the gaps where teeth are missing. Partial dentures are supported by both the gums and your remaining teeth and are usually held in place with metal clasps that attach to adjacent teeth.
The Benefits of Traditional Dentures
Traditional dentures offer several advantages, making them a great solution for most patients who are missing teeth. Benefits include:
Restored Functionality: One of the dentures’ primary benefits is restoring normal eating and speaking functions. Missing enough teeth can make it challenging to chew certain foods or speak clearly, but dentures help restore these vital abilities.
Improved Appearance: Missing teeth can affect the profile and structure of your face, leading to a sunken or aged appearance. Dentures fill out your face, restoring your smile and giving you a more youthful look. Dentures are designed to look natural, closely mimicking the appearance of real teeth.
Cost-Effective Solution: Traditional dentures are often more affordable than other tooth replacement options, such as dental bridges or dental implants. Dentures provide a practical and effective way to replace missing teeth for patients on a budget.
Non-Invasive Treatment: Unlike dental implants, which require surgery to place posts in the jawbone, traditional dentures are non-invasive. They don’t involve surgery or lengthy recovery periods, making them a good option for patients who may not be candidates for surgical procedures or bone density issues.
Custom-Fitted for Comfort: Dentures are custom-made to fit the individual shape and size of your mouth. This ensures they are as comfortable as possible, especially when you take the time to adapt to wearing them. Over time, your dentist can make adjustments if necessary to improve their fit.
What to Expect When Getting Dentures
The process of getting traditional dentures usually takes several appointments to ensure a proper fit. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:
Initial Consultation: During the first visit, your dentist will assess your oral health, take X-rays, and go over your treatment options. If you’re a candidate for traditional dentures, your dentist will take dental impressions of your mouth to create a mould for the dentures.
Tooth Extraction (if needed): Your dentist will schedule a tooth extraction if you need to remove your teeth before getting dentures. You may be fitted with immediate dentures placed right after the extraction to give you teeth while your gums heal. These are temporary and will be replaced with a final set of dentures after healing.
Denture Fitting: Once your dentures are made, you’ll return to the dentist to try them on. The dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure the dentures fit properly, feel comfortable, and function well.
Follow-Up Visits: It may take a few follow-up appointments to fine-tune the fit of your dentures. Some discomfort or irritation is typical at first as your gums adjust, but these issues can be addressed with minor adjustments.
Adapting to Dentures: Adapting to new dentures can take time, and it’s normal to feel some soreness or have difficulty speaking and eating at first. However, with practice and patience, most people become accustomed to wearing dentures and regain their confidence.
Caring for Traditional Dentures
Proper care is essential to ensure your dentures remain in good condition and maintain oral health. Here are tips for caring for your dentures:
Clean Your Dentures Daily: Just like natural teeth, dentures need daily cleaning to remove food particles and plaque. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture cleaner (not regular toothpaste, as it may be too abrasive) to clean all surfaces of the dentures. Rinse them with water afterward.
Soak Your Dentures Overnight: Dentures usually need to stay moist to retain their shape. Soak your dentures in water or a denture-cleaning solution while you sleep. This also helps keep them fresh and free of bacteria.
Brush Your Gums and Tongue: Even if you have complete dentures, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene. Use a soft toothbrush to gently clean your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth to stimulate circulation and remove bacteria.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining your oral health and ensuring your dentures continue to fit well. Over time, your gums and bone structure may change, and your dentures may need adjustments or replacements.
Handle Your Dentures with Care: Dentures are durable but can break if dropped or handled roughly. Always clean them over a soft surface like a towel or basin filled with water to prevent damage if they slip.
Potential Challenges with Traditional Dentures
While traditional dentures offer many benefits, there are some challenges to be aware of:
Adjustment Period: It may take time to get used to wearing dentures, particularly when it comes to speaking and eating. Chewing certain foods, like sticky or hard items, can be difficult at first.
Stability: Traditional dentures can sometimes shift or move, especially if they don’t fit perfectly. Denture adhesives can help improve stability, but over time, you may need adjustments or replacements to maintain a good fit.
Bone Loss: Traditional dentures don’t prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can occur after tooth loss. Over time, this can affect the fit of your dentures, requiring adjustments.
Are Traditional Dentures Right for You?
Traditional dentures are an excellent option for many people, especially those who want an affordable and non-invasive solution to tooth loss. However, it’s important to discuss your unique situation with your dentist to determine if they’re the best choice for you. Alternatives like dental implants or implant-supported dentures may be more suitable for some individuals, depending on their health and needs.
Traditional dentures are:
- A tried-and-true solution for replacing missing teeth.
- Offering improved functionality.
- Aesthetics.
- Confidence for patients.
By understanding the process, benefits, and care involved, you can decide whether dentures are the correct option for you. If you’re considering dentures, consult your dentist to explore your options and take the first step toward restoring your smile.