Missing one or more teeth can affect your smile, how you eat, talk, and socializing with others. Therefore, it’s important to look into ways to fix the issue. With a variety of tooth replacement treatments these days, could dentures be the solution to your problem?
What Are Dentures?
Simply put, they are artificial gums and teeth that are custom-made to fit in your mouth. The treatment can replace one missing tooth, a few, or an entire bottom or top gum line.
Dentures help to improve your smile after losing teeth. They support the structure of your mouth around your lips and cheeks. Also, they make it easier to eat! Lastly, this dental treatment is a good choice for those who are experiencing discomfort due to damaged teeth. Dentures allow you the freedom to remove teeth that are causing issues and replace them with a viable alternative.
Types of Dentures In Spokane Valley
There are three main types, listed below.
1. Full
A full denture set replaces an entire arch of teeth. They suction against the floor or roof of your mouth. This keeps them in place. Although, full dentures aren’t very secure, specifically in the lower jaw.
2. Partial
Secondly, partial dentures replace one or more missing teeth; however, less than a full arch of teeth. They essentially squeeze between your remaining natural teeth. As a result, the base fits perfectly along the roof or floor of your mouth. They stay in place, thanks to suctioning. Your other natural teeth support them, too.
3. Implant
Lastly, this option combines the function of dentures with the innovation of dental implants. A dental implant is a treatment that can replace a tooth or teeth. The implant fixture is placed into your jawbone. With this treatment, the implant secures the denture in your mouth. Therefore, they reduce the anxiety around the denture “slipping out”. Also, they don’t require denture adhesives.
As such, an implant denture allows for added stability, structural support, and decreases bone loss. Plus, there is no need to remove them like the above options.
There are pros and cons to each denture treatment. Removable dentures are easier to maintain. Still, they wear out quicker and aren’t as secure. Meanwhile, implant dentures are harder to maintain. However, they are far more secure. Your dentist in Spokane Valley can offer recommendations during a consultation.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Like natural teeth, bacteria and plaque can build up on your dentures. This creates issues for your gums and existing teeth. Thus, they require cleaning at least once a day.
To start, remove your dentures and run them under warm water. This will remove food particles stuck between teeth, under the denture, or along the gum line. After that, brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush, using denture cleaner or mild soap.
Avoid regular toothpaste or an electric toothbrush. These can damage denture materials. This is because both items are too abrasive for them. After cleaning, rinse your dentures well. Also, while they are out, ensure to clean your natural teeth and gums with fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. If you feel as if the toothbrush is too harsh on your gums, there’s another option. Wrap your finger in a clean, soft, and wet washcloth, then gently rub your gums, instead.
Lastly, take them out of your mouth each night before bed. This will prevent dislodging or damaging them. It also gives your gums some time to rest. Put dentures in warm water, and ensure they are fully submerged. This keeps them from drying out.
Cleaning & Maintenance For Implant Dentures
As mentioned before, an implant denture cannot be removed. Therefore, they require the same cleaning care as natural teeth and gums, twice daily. Ensure to use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush when cleaning. Brush your other teeth, gums, and tongue to avoid plaque build-up, too.
Finally, some dentists recommend you use a water-flossing device to remove food between dentures and teeth. These help to clean and restore your implant dentures and reduce the risk of damage.
Schedule A Consultation With A Spokane Valley Denture Dentist
Could dentures be the solution you are looking for? To learn more about this treatment and other tooth replacement options in Spokane Valley, WA, contact Collin Dentistry & Aesthetics. Call (509) 927-2273 or book online to schedule a consultation with a denture dentist, today.
During your appointment, we will help evaluate your needs to recommend the best denture option for you. We can provide advice, answer questions, and outline the entire process. We’ll have you back and smiling again in no time!
