What Causes Tooth Loss?
If your teeth are falling out, you’ve likely:
- Experienced an injury to the teeth or jaws
- Been suffering from tooth decay
- Been living with undiagnosed gum disease
Some medical conditions make you more susceptible to the gum disease and tooth decay that lead to tooth loss.
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Preventable factors that contribute to tooth loss include hygiene, smoking, and a sugary diet.
What are the Differences Between Full and Partial Dentures?
Full dentures replace all the teeth in the top or bottom of your mouth whereas partial dentures replace smaller sections of teeth.
People with healthy remaining teeth may be good candidates for partial dentures. The partial dentures consist of replacement teeth and a plastic base that fits around those healthy teeth. They can be removable or fixed.
Fixed partial dentures are made of a bridge with replacement teeth affixed to natural teeth and held in place with cement and crowns.
How are Dentures Made?
First, your dentist takes a series of measurements inside your mouth and makes a mold of your gums. You get to “try on” this mold until it fits perfectly. The dentist uses the mold to create a final cast for your dentures. Then, your dentist sends this mold to the lab where your dentures are made. Once the lab returns the dentures, your dentist assesses their fit and appearance.
What are the Benefits of Dentures?
Missing teeth cause your cheeks and face to take on a sunken look. Dentures help fill out your face and restore your natural appearance. A full set of natural-looking teeth give you a healthy appearance.
Partial dentures help preserve the health of the remaining teeth, preventing them from shifting and preserving the jawbone. The remaining teeth lend stability to the partial denture.
How Do I Take Care of My New Dentures?
Brush your gums, tongue, inner cheeks, and the roof of your mouth every morning to remove residue and stimulate circulation. Clean your dentures every day with a denture brush and gentle cleanser to prevent buildup.
You also need to keep your dentures damp to prevent warping, so make sure you soak them in water or denture solution when you’re not wearing them. If they do happen to warp, make an appointment with your dentist right away. Trying to make adjustments to your dentures may cause irreparable damage.
If you’re looking into your denture options, consult the dentists at Sunrise Dental.