Last week I shared some information and thoughts about dentures.  I would like to communicate some more details about the looks, care and long-term expectations of them for you today.

All dentures are not created the same.  By considering a person’s facial structure, complexion and skin color, the shape of the lips and their movement, as well as a variety of other characteristics, a set of dentures can create a beautiful smile.  They can be made to closely resemble the natural teeth so that little change in appearance will be noticed.  That is, if they liked the look of their natural teeth initially!  If not, dentures can be utilized to improve the look of a smile and help fill out the appearance of the face and profile.  A well made denture should not look like false teeth.  They should mimic what the good Lord gave you and be indistinguishable from the real thing.

How do I care for a denture?

A denture is fragile and may break if dropped even a few inches.  Stand over a folded towel or a sink of water when cleaning them.  Like natural teeth, dentures must be brushed daily, preferably with a brush designed specifically for cleaning dentures, using either a denture cleanser or toothpastes.  Brushing helps prevent stain and helps your mouth stay healthy.  Never use harsh, abrasive cleansers because they may scratch the surface of the denture.  When not in use, soak it in a cleanser solution or in water.  Get in the habit of keeping the denture in the same safe and handy place to reduce the likelihood of misplacement.  By the way, dogs think they are wonderful chew toys, so keep them away from pets!

Should a denture be worn at night?

While one may be advised to wear a denture almost constantly during the first two weeks- even while you sleep-under normal circumstances it is considered best to remove it at night.  Research has shown that removing the denture for at least eight hours during either the day or night allows the gum tissue to rest and allows normal stimulation and cleansing by the tongue and saliva.  This promotes better long-term health of the gums.

Now that I have dentures, I don’t need to see the dentist anymore, Do I?

It is important to continue having regular dental checkups so that a dentist can examine oral tissues for signs of disease or cancer.  Dentures become loose because a mouth naturally changes with age.  Bone and gum ridges will recede and shrink, causing the jaws to align differently.  Loose dentures can cause sores, infections, health problems, and a change in facial features as well as make it difficult to eat.  To maintain a proper fit over time, it may be necessary to adjust the denture, reline it or possibly have it remade.  I know a Dremel tool looks a lot like our drills in the office, but please never attempt to adjust a denture yourself.  This can damage them and make them un-repairable.  When in doubt, consult your dentist; otherwise see them on an annual basis.

Are there any alternatives to dentures?

Dentures are no longer the only way to restore a mouth that has little or no non-restorable teeth.  Strategically placed support, or implants, can now be used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating the need for a denture.  The cost tends to be greater, but the implants and bridges more closely resemble the "feel" of real teeth.  Dental implants are becoming the alternative of choice to dentures, but not everyone is a candidate for implants.  Call your dentist for advice.

As I said last week, dentures aren’t a panacea and what we were given is always better, but if made properly they can be a decent substitute.  Don’t forget - Keep sharing your smile, it improves your face value!