Without doubt, all organs of the body are important, and this includes the mouth, which is a key player in the digestive system. With regards to what comprises the mouth, the teeth cannot be overlooked, though this not being done to the prejudice of other important parts, like the tongue.
But it is the case sometimes, and for some individuals, the teeth may be missing. While for some, the missing teeth may be as a result of birth defects or developmental issues from childhood, for some others, the issue of missing teeth may come as a result of accidents, health issues, or unwanted circumstances in general. Regardless of the case, thanks to medical advancements, these issues already have a solution, and they come in the form of dentures.
Dentures
In the basic sense, dentures are an artificial or prosthetic set of teeth put in place, and arranged in the mouth, in substitute for a normal set of teeth. The necessity to use dentures varies, mostly medical in nature. Examples include, again, accidents; weak gums; falling teeth, and the list goes on. With dentures, the original set of teeth is replaced. While the replacement may be partial for some, for others, the replacement may be more permanent, or for a very long time, if temporary. Regardless of the case, dentures are generally removable.
Types of Dentures
Although dentures are fitted in the mouth of the patient, they come in types. There is the partial type, and there is the complete type.
Partial dentures are dentures fitted where there are remnants of the original set of teeth. Take for example a person involved in an accident, losing most of his teeth, there are instances where part of the teeth are still strong and there is no necessity to have them removed. In this case, partial dentures are usually the best for the situation. At best, the rest of the teeth still available are in need of support, and partial dentures are a better option.
On the other hand, there is the complete dentures. This may come as necessary where all of the teeth, or a substantial majority, is missing. Where it is a substantial majority of the teeth missing, complete dentures are usually advised if the rest of the teeth cannot be maintained, sustained, or remained. Essentially, complete dentures come as a complete replacement and substitute to the normal set of teeth.
Denture Care Tips
It is important that all dentures, Partial or Full are taken care of accordingly. Here are some necessary tips as to the taking care of dentures:
- Taking them off before bed
When settled that you are already going to bed, it is important that the dentures are taken out. The importance and advantages of this is in two ways. First, the gum where which the dentures are fitted to will be given enough time to rest, and this will make it easier to use the dentures continuously, with less irritation.
On the other hand, also, removing the dentures before sleeping helps in ensuring escape chemical reactions that might be occurring in the mouth while asleep. This way, the probability of the dentures getting damaged or witnessing depreciation is more reduced.
- Clean them
It is advised that dentures are cleaned at least twice every day. Just like it is for a set of natural teeth, dentures are to be cleaned to rid them off any stains and bacteria making them more presentable and allowing them to be the best fit.
- Clean your mouth after removing the dentures
While it is important to have the dentures clean, it is also important that when the dentures are out of the mouth, and before they are put into the mouth, the mouth is rinsed and cleaned appropriately. This will make the mouth more receptive of the dentures and reduce the probability of irritation.
- Handle dentures properly
Dentures can be fragile. It is of importance that they are handled properly and with care. Particularly, the dentures falling should be avoided as best as possible. When washing or cleaning the dentures, it is advised that something soft be kept beneath it, or there is no hard surface directly beneath it, in the event of a fall.
How to Clean Dentures
While cleaning dentures comes under the heading of taking care of your dentures, they should still be done properly. Some things to note with regards to this include:
- Avoidance of conventional toothpastes and bleaching agents generally.
Toothpastes should not be used in cleaning dentures. They contain bleaching agents that may come off as harmful to the dentures themselves. To this effect, cleaning tips that involve bleaching agents should also be generally avoided, as they can have a negative effect on dentures.
- Rinse twice daily
Rather than using toothpastes, it is better to get toothbrushes designed specifically for dentures. They should be used together with a lot of water, and it is advised that this is done twice daily, or at least once daily.
- Avoid hot water
While dentures are better rinsed, it is important to stress that the water to use is cold water. In its entirety, hot water should not be used in cleaning dentures, at all. They can be damaged. It is best to use cold water and denture-specific toothbrushes. Alternatively, other cleaning utilities can be used, but hot water should be avoided.
Eating with Dentures, Removing Dentures, and Refitting Dentures
Dentures can be specifically designed for the kind of individual and the dental issue in question. Essentially, specifically related things like eating with dentures, removing them, and refitting them might not have a general method to them. Regarding matters as this, it is usually best to visit your dentist and seek medical guidance.
