Let’s talk about dentures, also informally known as “false teeth”.
You may associate dentures with older people, who have had more time for their teeth to experience wear and tear and tooth decay, which can lead to tooth loss. Dentures are more common in senior citizens. A research paper from 2013 showed that 42% of Australian adults aged 65 and over had dentures. However, tooth decay and age are not the only factors causing someone to require dentures. Injuries from sports or accidents can also lead to tooth loss, and many younger adults wear dentures to give them confidence and a great smile.
Modern dentures help people of all ages achieve a confident smile
It can be disappointing to lose one or more of your natural teeth, for any reason. However, if this has happened to you, you’re not alone. Dentures have been used for many years to support people who are edentate (without their natural teeth) and they’ve come a long way from the old “false teeth” sitting in a glass of water next to the bed.
Today’s dentures are significantly more comfortable and natural-looking compared to those from previous decades. High-quality dentures now closely resemble natural teeth to the point where most people would not even realise you are wearing replacement teeth.
What are the different types of dentures?
Dentures are removable prosthetic appliances that fit in your upper or lower jaw, or both, and replace missing teeth to help you chew and smile. There are different kinds of dentures, depending on your unique dental needs. For example, a partial denture replaces a small number of missing teeth while a full denture replaces all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw.
After taking X-rays and moulds of your mouth and jaw, dental technicians craft dentures from materials such as metal, composite resin, nylon, porcelain and acrylic to create an appliance that is specifically fitted for your mouth. There are different types of dentures to suit individual needs. For example, if a patient has some teeth missing but some healthy natural teeth remaining, a partial denture might be a suitable option, to replace the missing teeth. Full dentures replace the whole arch of teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. Sometimes patients require a single tooth denture only. It depends on the individual and their requirements.
There are different ways of fitting dentures to the mouth as well. A partial denture may use wires that clasp around the natural teeth to hold the denture in position. Full dentures rest on the gums and you may use a special type of adhesive to keep the denture in place. Dentures can also be held in place by dental implants which are small, threaded structures that replace the natural roots of teeth.
Your dentist will advise you on the best option for your specific needs. We offer many different options at Lillybrook Dental, to suit your smile.
How much do dentures cost?
There are a few different factors that affect the cost of dentures, including whether full or partial dentures are required and whether any extractions or other treatment is needed before your dentures are fitted. Talk to us about your specific dental needs. At Lillybrook Dental we offer several flexible payment plan options with 0% interest so you can smile now and pay later.
How do you care for dentures?
Just like your natural teeth, dentures need to be cared for and cleaned regularly. People who use dentures usually take them out at night. This gives your gums a break and also gives you time to clean your dentures. We recommend you soak your dentures overnight in an effervescent solution, then, in the morning, use a denture brush or soft toothbrush to clean your dentures, and rinse them well. Avoid using chemicals or harsh abrasives on your dentures as this could damage them. Don’t forget about your gums and the inside of your mouth too! Give these a clean at least twice daily, using a soft toothbrush or washcloth. When cared for properly, dentures last much longer, and caring for your gums and mouth tissue helps to maintain good oral hygiene and reduce the risk of infection.
Dentures are a great option for replacing missing teeth, helping with chewing and digestion and most importantly beginning back the confidence that goes along with having a healthy, full smile. If you have some teeth missing or are considering dentures, please contact us to discuss your options.
Disclaimer:
All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Lillybrook Dental can consult with you to confirm if dentures are right for you.
References:
Dentures. Accessed Wednesday 12th June 2024 from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10900-dentures
Denture Cleanliness and Hygiene; An Overview. Accessed Wednesday 12th June 2024 from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9270218/
Tooth loss, denture wearing and implants: Findings from the National Study of Adult Oral Health 2017–18. Retrieved Wednesday 12th June 2024 from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/adj.12761#:~:text=Data%20from%20the%20NDTIS%202013,seen%20in%20the%205505%20examinations
