Getting dentures is an important decision that requires careful consideration before making a commitment. Dentures are prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and restore the look, feel, and functionality of natural teeth. Many dentists offer denture services as part of their restorative dentistry practice. So if you’re considering dentures, here’s what you should know.

Dentures are one of the most common dental restorations used to replace missing teeth and improve dentition. They come in two varieties – full dentures and partial dentures – both of which have their own advantages and disadvantages. Full dentures replace all of the teeth in a dentition, while partial dentures are used to replace just some of the teeth. Dentures can be made from different materials, including acrylic resin and porcelain.

Benefits of dentures

Dentures offer several benefits for people with missing teeth or dentitions that need to be restored. For example, dentures can help prevent further tooth loss and allow patients to chew and speak more easily than those with missing teeth. Additionally, dentures may improve a person’s appearance by replacing lost facial structures that can be caused by missing teeth.

1. Improved Chewing Ability

Having dentures fitted properly allows for an improved chewing ability. This can help to improve the digestion of food, which is important for overall health.

2. Improved Speech

Missing teeth can make it difficult to speak correctly and dentures can help to improve the clarity of speech by restoring dentition. Dentures also fill out the mouth, making it easier to form words correctly.

3. Improved Appearance

Dentures restore dentition, which can make a person’s face look fuller and more natural. This can help to improve a person’s self-confidence.

Disadvantages of dentures

Although dentures have many benefits, they also come with some disadvantages. For example, dentures can be difficult to care for and require frequent maintenance. Additionally, dentures may slip or move in the mouth which can cause irritation and discomfort.

1. Maintenance

Dentures must be removed daily in order to be cleaned properly. Cleaning dentures requires a denture brush and denture cleanser, which can be time-consuming and difficult. Additionally, dentures must be soaked in water or denture solution overnight to keep them from drying out.

2. Slipping

Dentures may slip or move around in the mouth if they are not properly fitted. If dentures slip too much, denture adhesive may be used to help them stay in place. However, denture adhesives can cause irritation and should only be used when necessary.

3. Irritation

Dentures that do not fit properly or denture adhesives can cause irritation and discomfort. This can make it difficult to wear dentures for long periods of time.

Conclusion

Getting dentures can be a great way to restore dentition and improve the look, feel, and functionality of teeth. However, dentures also come with some disadvantages that must be considered before making a commitment. It is important to consult with a dentist who specializes in restorative dentistry to learn more about dentures and what options are available.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between full dentures and partial dentures?

A: Full dentures replace all of the teeth in a dentition, while partial dentures are used to replace just some of the teeth.

Q: How often do dentures need to be cleaned?

A: Dentures should be removed and cleaned daily with a denture brush and denture cleanser. Additionally, dentures must be soaked in water or denture solution overnight to keep them from drying out.

Q: Does my dentist in Oak Forest offer denture services?

A: Yes, dentists in Oak Forest who specialize in restorative dentistry can provide denture services. It is important to consult with your dentist to determine what type of dentures are right for you.