Navigating the world of dentures can be overwhelming. From understanding what partial dentures are to knowing when you might need denture repair, there’s a lot to consider.
At Aesthetic Dental & Denture Clinic, we believe education is key to maintaining oral health. That’s why our Camden dentist is committed to providing clear, practical, and accurate information. Whether you’re considering dentures for the first time or seeking an emergency dentist in Camden for urgent denture repairs, we’re here to help.
Below, we’ll answer some of the most common questions we’re asked about dentures and dental health. Let’s get started.
FAQ Section 1: Understanding Dentures
What are dentures, and when might someone need them?
Dentures are essentially prosthetic devices that are custom-made to replace missing teeth and are generally removable for ease of cleaning and comfort. They’re designed to mimic the appearance of natural teeth closely. Along with replacing missing teeth, they also help maintain the structure of your mouth by providing support for the cheeks and lips.
Dentures are required when someone loses some or all of their natural teeth. This could be the result of several things:
- Decay or gum disease: When teeth are severely decayed or gum disease has progressed to a stage causing tooth loss, dentures can replace the missing teeth and restore function and appearance.
- Injury: Accidents or injuries can sometimes result in tooth loss. In these cases, dentures can be an effective way to replace the lost teeth.
- Aging: As we age, our teeth can become more susceptible to decay, breakage, and loss, often due to a lifetime of wear and tear. Dentures can help older adults maintain their ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently.
- Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to tooth loss and may require dentures at a younger age than others.
Losing teeth can cause problems with talking or eating, and of course it can majorly impact someone’s self-confidence – affecting their quality of life. Dentures can help by replacing missing teeth, improving the ability to chew and speak, and restoring a person’s smile.
Are there different types of dentures, and how do they differ?
Yes, many different types of dentures are available, each designed to suit different needs and preferences. There are two main categories: complete dentures and partial dentures.
Complete dentures are made with an acrylic base that matches your gum colour and has prosthetic teeth attached to the base. They can be conventional in design – meaning they are fitted after the gums are fully healed following tooth extraction, or they are immediate dentures which are pre-made and inserted immediately after the teeth have been removed.
Partial dentures, on the other hand, such as acrylic partial dentures, have replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-coloured plastic base. These might be connected by a metal framework that holds the denture in place. They are used when one or more of the natural teeth remain.
Aside from these two options at our Camden dental clinic, you might also come across cosmetic dentures built for aesthetics and give the wearer a nicer smile, or Swiss dentures, known for their superior quality and comfort but generally more expensive.
Depending on the type you choose, the cost of dental implants varies, however, we do offer flexible dental payment plans, including Afterpay dental, to help.
How long does it take to get used to wearing dentures?
Adjusting to new dentures, whether complete dentures, removable partial dentures, or specialised types like cosmetic dentures or Swiss dentures, is different for everyone. It can take a few weeks or a few months to get used to them.
When you first have dentures fitted, your mouth and tongue need time to adjust. You may initially experience discomfort, increased salivation, and minor irritation or soreness. However, these temporary symptoms will gradually diminish as your mouth adjusts.
During this adjustment phase, it’s important to maintain regular visits to your denture clinic in Camden for check-ups and adjustments. These visits allow your dentist to ensure the dentures fit properly and make necessary corrections to prevent discomfort and other issues.
Certain types of dentures may require a shorter adjustment period than others. For example, immediate dentures, inserted immediately after tooth extraction, might take longer to adapt to because your gums are also healing simultaneously. On the other hand, acrylic partial dentures may take less time because they often replace fewer teeth and offer more stability.
Patience and persistence are key during the adjustment period. It’s a significant change, and it’s normal to require time to adapt. Practicing talking and eating with your dentures at home can speed up the adjustment process. Also, following the care and maintenance advice from your denture clinic can ensure a more comfortable and smoother transition to wearing dentures.
FAQ Section 2: Getting Dentures Fitted
1. What is the denture fitting process like?
Whether total or partial, fitting dentures often require several appointments spread out over several weeks to guarantee a perfect fit and the most natural look. It’s time-consuming, but it is necessary if you want high-quality, aesthetic and functional dentures.
The first step of the process is making perfect imprints of your mouth. Your Camden dentist will use a soft material to capture the specific shapes of your gums, jaws, and any remaining teeth. This imprint is then used to construct a detailed model of your mouth that will be used as a pattern for your dentures.
Then, wax rims are inserted in the mouth to establish a suitable bite and tooth orientation. The denture teeth, colour, shape, and fit are chosen to complement your natural teeth and facial features. Before the final denture is cast, you can approve the appearance and feel of your new teeth.
Next, the dentures will be carefully adjusted and fitted throughout the subsequent consultations. Your dentist will examine the appearance and functionality of your dentures to ensure they are not uncomfortable or interfere with your speech. This may need multiple fittings and tweaks to find the right fit.
2. How often should dentures be adjusted?
This depends on several factors, including oral health, weight changes, bone structure, and general wear and tear of dentures.
Weight loss, in particular, can impact the fit of your dentures, as losing a lot of weight can impact the shape of your jawbone and gum. Bone loss in the jaw, which can happen as you age or as a result of osteoporosis, can also impact dentures, making them loose and uncomfortable.
Wear and tear also affect the need for adjustments. Chewing and speaking can wear down the lead, which can result in them feeling uncomfortable and can also impact your chewing and speaking.
We recommend you have your dentures checked and potentially adjusted at least once a year. During these appointments, the dentist will check your mouth and dentures for any sign they aren’t fitting properly or for any damage or wear. If needed, they will be able to adjust your dentures for you.
Along with these scheduled appointments, it’s essential that if you’re feeling any pain, or notice any discomfort or changes in how your dentures feel, contact your dentist right away. It could be a sign they need adjusting. It’s also worth noting that even if you do have regular adjustments, your dentures may still need to be resurfaced or replaced at some point (usually between 5-7 years).
3. What is the role of follow-up appointments in denture care?
Follow-up appointments are essential for ensuring your dentures fit correctly, function effectively, and provide comfort.
To start with, changes in the structure of your mouth caused by aging, weight loss, or bone loss may cause your dentures to become loose or uncomfortable over time. During a follow-up session, your dentist may make necessary adjustments to your dentures.
Checking your oral tissues is also an important aspect of these sessions. Dentures that don’t fit properly can cause irritation or sores. Your dentist will examine your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth for signs of inflammation, infection, or other abnormalities.
Follow-up check ups also allow you to have your dentures professionally cleaned. While regular at-home cleaning is important, many types of buildup can be difficult to remove without the assistance of professional equipment and abilities.
These visits are an excellent opportunity for you and your dentist to discuss your denture maintenance programme. They may advise you on proper cleaning techniques, recommend goods suitable for your needs, and answer any concerns you have about wearing and caring for your dentures.
Follow-up appointments also allow your dentist to assess the overall health of your natural teeth (if you have any) and your bite and jaw alignment. This is particularly important for persons who wear partial dentures.
FAQ Section 3: Denture Maintenance and Care
1. What is the best way to clean dentures?
Proper dental health not only means taking care of your natural teeth, but it also includes proper care for your dentures. Your dentures need to be cleaned daily to remove particles and plaque, to prevent stains and keep your mouth healthy.
The best way to clean dentures starts with rinsing them after every meal. This can help dislodge any food particles stuck in the denture. It could be as simple as washing your mouth out or, if you have removable dentures, taking them out and running them under a tap.
You must also brush your dentures daily, just as you would with your natural teeth. However, remember that denture material can be easily scratched, so make sure you use a specialised brush. While you might instinctively reach for regular toothpaste, it’s important to note that many of these are too abrasive for dentures. As such, it’s important you use a non-abrasive denture cleaner. You can ask your dentist for their recommendations.
Along with your dentures, it’s also essential to clean your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth. A soft-bristled toothbrush can help remove plaque and stimulate circulation in your mouth tissues.
Remember, your dental practice is there to support you. Regular check-ups with an emergency dentist or dental hygienist are crucial to maintaining proper denture care and overall oral health. They can provide professional teeth cleaning and check for any signs of issues.
2. Can dentures be whitened or repaired?
Unlike natural teeth, your dentures cannot be whitened using traditional teeth whitening methods. They’re made from a different material than natural teeth and as such do not respond to whitening treatments the same way. However, that doesn’t mean that you’ll be stuck with stained teeth forever.
If your dentures have become discoloured over time, visiting a denture clinic can help. Dentists can provide a thorough cleaning that may help remove surface stains and restore your dentures to their original colour. If the discolouration or staining is severe, you may need to replace the dentures altogether, particularly partial dentures which need to match the colour of your natural teeth.
When it comes to denture repair, remember that any repairs need to be completed by a dental professional. Attempting to fix them yourself could lead to further damage or improper fit, which can cause discomfort and inefficiency.
Common types of denture repairs include fixing a chip or a crack, replacing a tooth that has fallen out, or adjusting the denture fit. If you do notice any damage to your dentures, get in touch with your clinic right away. Continuing to wear dentures that are damaged can harm your oral health.
3. Are there specific foods to avoid with dentures?
Yes, there are specific foods you should be cautious about to prevent potential damage or discomfort.
Sticky foods, such as caramel or certain lollies, can stick to dentures and potentially dislodge them. This is inconvenient but could also result in you needing emergency denture repairs, which would disrupt your daily routine and potentially be expensive.
Hard foods, such as raw fruits, vegetables, or nuts, can also damage dentures by causing them to crack or chip. If you’re wearing immediate dentures (dentures placed immediately after extraction of natural teeth), it’s particularly important to be cautious with your diet as your mouth will still be healing.
Even with acrylic partial dentures or complete dentures, eating hard or crunchy foods can cause discomfort or even lead to denture breakage. Cut these types of food into smaller pieces and chew slowly to prevent any issues.
While cosmetic dentures and Swiss dentures (known for their high-quality materials and aesthetics) might seem more resilient, they also need care when it comes to dietary choices. Don’t worry, though. It doesn’t mean you have to limit your diet.
There are plenty of denture-friendly foods that are both nutritious and enjoyable. Soft foods like eggs, fish, cooked vegetables, and yoghurt are easy to chew and swallow. You can also enjoy harder foods by preparing them differently, such as cooking vegetables until soft or choosing ground meat instead of steak.
FAQ Section 4: Dental Health Tips
1. What are the key habits for maintaining good oral health?
If you want to maintain good oral health, there are a few simple, essential habits you need to consider. To start with, regularly brushing your teeth is crucial. It is recommended that you brush your teeth at least twice a day, in the morning and before bed, to remove any accumulated plaque or food particles. Use quality toothpaste and remember to replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
Flossing should also be part of your daily oral hygiene routine. It helps to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth and under the gum line, which are usually areas your toothbrush cannot reach. You should floss at least once a day to maintain healthy gums.
A balanced diet can also help with good oral health. Avoid foods high in sugar and carbohydrates, as these can feed the bacteria that produce dental plaque, leading to tooth decay. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products are not only good for your body but also promotes good oral health. You should also limit your alcohol consumption, avoid tobacco products, and be mindful of not using your teeth as tools, such as opening packets.
Finally, regular dental checkups are essential to maintain good oral health. Dentists can not only check for potential problems; they can also remove tartar and check for signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer and other oral health issues.
2. How often should one visit the dentist?
Regular dental visits are the best way to maintain optimal dental health. It’s generally recommended that you visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and a check-up at your local dental practice, such as a Camden dental practice. However, the frequency of your visits will depend on your specific oral health needs.
During regular visits, a dental hygienist typically performs a professional teeth cleaning service to remove plaque and tartar. Following the cleaning, the dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth, teeth and gums to check for any signs of gum disease, cavities, or oral cancer.
Additional dental services may also be recommended at the checkup. For example, if you have stained teeth, your dentist may recommend teeth whitening products or procedures, or if you are experiencing discomfort or pain, they may check for wisdom teeth coming in, and wisdom teeth removal might be advised.
In the case of dental emergencies, such as a broken tooth or severe toothache, it’s important to contact an emergency dentist in Camden or your local area as soon as possible. And for those interested in improving the appearance of their smile, many dental practices also offer cosmetic dentistry services. You can ask when you make your appointment.
3. Are there signs that dentures may need adjusting or replacing?
There are several signs that your dentures may need adjusting or replacing and it’s important that you don’t ignore them, or they could lead to discomfort and oral health issues.
- Discomfort: if your dentures start to feel uncomfortable in your mouth, it could be a sign they need adjusting. New dentures may feel uncomfortable as your mouth adjusts, but prolonged discomfort is abnormal. This could mean the dentures don’t fit properly and are causing irritation to your gums or the inside of your mouth.
- Moving around: If you can feel your dentures slip or move around while talking, eating or laughing, you likely need an adjustment. Dentures need to fit securely against your gums – if they don’t, they can cause pain or lead to eating and speaking difficulties.
- Sores or blisters: Sores can be painful and potentially become infected if left untreated. They’re often caused by dentures that don’t fit properly and rub against your gums or the inside of your cheeks. If you’re feeling these, check your dentures as soon as possible.
In addition to these signs, other indications your dentures may need adjusting or replacing include difficulty chewing certain foods, changes in facial appearance, or frequent bad breath.
Regular check-ups with your dentist or denture specialist can help identify these changes early and ensure your dentures are adjusted or replaced as needed, avoiding needing an emergency dentist in Camden.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re considering partial dentures or you need a denture repair, professional clinics, such as a Camden dentist, can provide expert guidance and services. If you have a dental emergency, an emergency dentist in Camden can provide immediate care, or if you are looking to book a check-up, a dentist in Camden or a Camden dental surgery will be able to help. There are also a range of specialist services, for example
- Advancements in dental technology, such as digital dentures and mobile dentistry, have made it possible to receive high-quality dental care with increased convenience and precision.
- For those wanting to enhance their smile, dental veneers and dental implants are excellent options.
- Dental implants for seniors have proven to be a durable, functional, and aesthetic replacement for missing teeth.
At our Aesthetic Dentures Camden dental clinic, we understand the importance of a comfortable and confident smile. That’s why we offer various services, from aesthetic dental treatments to Afterpay dental options. Whether you’re interested in removable partial dentures, need denture repairs, or are curious about the cost of dentures, our team is here to help.
Ready to enhance your smile? Contact our denture clinic for personalised consultations or further enquiries.
