Dentures are constructed to replace missing teeth. Dentures often protect other natural teeth by spreading the load of biting over a wider area which prevents breakage. Badly fitted dentures can sometimes be improved by relining.
Impressions of the mouth are taken. From these, a skilled dental technician makes models of your mouth that are used for the construction of the dentures. About three more appointments for fittings are usually necessary before the dentures are completed. For relining, an impression is taken in the original denture which is then sent to the laboratory. This is normally returned for fitting 1-2 days later.
What can you expect from your dentures? The most common problems following the fitting of dentures or relines are sore gums or looseness.
Dentures are not the same as natural teeth. They are supported in the mouth either by the remaining teeth or by the gums. Teeth next to a denture may become tender for a few days during the settling-in period. Slight soreness of the gums often goes away after a few days. If the denture rubs so much that it causes ulcers, it must be adjusted.
Loose dentures are nearly always full dentures that replace missing lower teeth. Often the lower gums are quite flat and there is very little suction. Most patients learn to control the movement of these dentures with their cheeks and tongues.
This learning process can be slow and some never achieve it. Fortunately, implants are now available to overcome this problem and we will be pleased to refer to an appropriate specialist if necessary. When teeth are extracted and immediately replaced by dentures, different problems may arise.
It is vital that dentures are kept clean, especially the areas that touch natural teeth. A soft brush and denture toothpaste is sufficient. Always clean dentures over water in case they should be dropped and damaged. Soaking in denture cleaning solutions is not an adequate alternative to brushing. It is healthier for the mouth if dentures are left out at night.
These are made to allow extracted teeth to be replaced immediately with artificial substitutes. This has the advantage of restoring chewing function and avoiding the embarrassment of unsightly gaps during the healing period.
In the weeks and months following the extraction, the gum will close over, and the uneven jaw surface will smooth as the mouth remodels itself. Shrinkage of the tissue will cause gaps to form between the denture and the gum, leading to looseness and allowing food to become trapped.
The speed at which this happens varies from individual to individual but is normally most rapid during the first year. For this reason it is often necessary to insert semi-permanent linings during the early months and later, when the mouth is stable, to provide replacement dentures. As it is impossible to predict if or when these additional treatments may be necessary, they are not included in the original treatment cost estimate and will be charged separately at the due time.
Want to know more about our Denture service? Please get in touch with Philip Lewis: 01983 759567, or email us at info@wightdental.co.uk.