A Complete Guide to Dentures: Types, Benefits, and Care

Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. At Silver Summit Dental, they are custom-made to fit the unique shape and structure of an individual's mouth. Dentures are typically composed of artificial teeth set on a supportive framework made of metal or acrylic material. They can replace a few missing or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Dentures restore the appearance and functionality of the mouth, allowing individuals to chew, speak, and smile confidently. Dentures are designed to resemble natural teeth and gums, restoring the appearance and functionality of the mouth. They help individuals with missing teeth eat, speak, and confidently smile. 

Types of Dentures

• Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Both types of dentures consist of replacement teeth attached to a plastic base, which connects to a flesh-colored acrylic resin that mimics the appearance of gum tissue.
• Partial dentures fill in the gaps of missing teeth within the smile. They work well for many patients, but in some cases, patients may choose a bridge instead of a partial denture. A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth held in place by dental crowns affixed to adjacent natural teeth. This option requires less alteration of the underlying teeth and typically provides more stability than a partial denture.

The Benefits of Dentures 

• Dentures help restore chewing and speaking abilities, allowing you to eat various foods and communicate clearly.
• Dentures replace missing teeth, enhancing your smile and facial appearance.
• By restoring your smile and facial structure, dentures can boost your self-confidence and improve your overall quality of life.
• Dentures help support facial muscles, preventing sagging and giving a more youthful appearance.
• Dentures are more cost-effective for tooth replacement than dental implants or bridges.

Denture Care 

• Remove and rinse dentures after eating to remove food debris. Brush your dentures with a soft-bristle toothbrush and cleaner to remove plaque and stains.
• Clean your gums, tongue, and natural teeth thoroughly with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Soak dentures in a denture cleanser solution or water overnight to keep them moist and maintain their shape.
• Dentures are delicate, so handle them carefully to avoid damage. Avoid using hot water or abrasive cleaners that may warp or damage dentures.
• Visit your dentist regularly for denture adjustments, cleanings, and oral health evaluations.
• Store dentures in a container with water or a denture-soaking solution when unused. Avoid letting them dry out, as this can cause warping.

Dentures can help improve chewing ability, speech, and self-confidence for individuals who have lost their natural teeth due to various reasons such as tooth decay, gum disease, or injury. To learn more about dentures, visit Silver Summit Dental at 5734 W 13400 S, Herriman, UT 84096, or call (801) 542-0998