What are my options
for replacing missing teeth?
There are several options available to replace missing teeth:
- A partial
denture for either the top or bottom teeth is one option. The partial denture
is a removable denture that replaces one or several missing teeth. It is
anchored to the existing teeth using metal clasps.
- Another option would be having a
bridge inserted. The bridge is a procedure that can be used
to replace one or several missing teeth. It is fabricated at a
dental lab and designed to match the existing size, shape and colour
of your teeth. The procedure is very similar to a crown (cap) where
the tooth structure is removed and a thimble like cap cemented
over top. With a bridge the teeth on either side are prepared like
crowns with artificial teeth cemented in between to replace the
missing teeth.
- A third option is dental implants. They can provide artificial
teeth that look natural and feel secure. Implants can also
be used to attach full or partial dentures. Implants, however,
are not a treatment option in every case. Implants are a surgical
procedure. Therefore patients must be in good health, have healthy
gums, have adequate bone to support the implant and be committed
to thorough oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
Back to Top | Go
to Tooth Replacement Education
What will dentures feel like?
New dentures may feel awkward for a little while until you become accustomed
to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and
tongue learn to keep them in place.
It is not abnormal to experience minor
irritation or soreness to the gums, tongues and cheeks. You may find that
saliva flow temporarily increases. As your mouth becomes accustomed to
the dentures, these problems should diminish. One or more follow-up
appointments with the dentist are generally needed after a denture
is inserted. If any problem persists, particularly irritation or
soreness, be sure to consult your dentist.
Back to Top | Go
to Tooth Replacement Education
Will dentures make me look different?
Dentures can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth so that little
change in appearance will be noticeable. Dentures may even improve the look
of your smile and help fill out the appearance of your face and profile.
Back to Top | Go
to Tooth Replacement Education
Will I be able to eat with my dentures?
Eating will take a little practice. Start with soft foods cut into
small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the
same time to prevent the dentures from tipping. As you become accustomed
to chewing, add other foods until you return to your normal diet.
Back to Top | Go
to Tooth Replacement Education
Will dentures change how I speak?
Pronouncing certain words may require practice. Typically they are words that
start with Œs¹ or Œf¹. Reading out loud and repeating troublesome words will
help. If your dentures "click" while you're talking, speak more
slowly.
You may find that your dentures occasionally slip when you laugh,
cough or smile. Reposition the dentures by gently biting down and swallowing.
If a speaking problem persists, consult your dentist.
Back to Top | Go
to Tooth Replacement Education
How long should I wear my dentures?
Your dentist will provide instructions about how long dentures should
be kept in place. During the first few days, you may be advised
to wear them most of the time, including while you sleep. This
will help the muscles adjust more quickly.
After the initial adjustment
period, you may be instructed to remove the dentures before going
to bed. This allows gum tissues to rest and promotes oral health.
Back to Top | Go
to Tooth Replacement Education
Should I use a denture adhesive?
Dentures are made to fit precisely
and usually do not require use of an adhesive for comfort. In an
emergency, denture adhesives can be used to keep the dentures stable
until you see the dentist, but prolonged use can mask infections
and cause bone loss in the jaw. Likewise, a poorly-fitting denture,
which causes constant irritation over a long period, may contribute
to the development of sores. If your dentures begin to feel loose,
or cause pronounced discomfort, see your dentist immediately.
Back to Top | Go
to Tooth Replacement Education
How do I take care of my dentures?
Dentures are very delicate and
may break if dropped even a few inches. Stand over a folded towel
or a basin of water when handling dentures. When you are not wearing
them, store your dentures away from children and pets in a proper
denture bath.
Dentures may lose their shape if they are allowed
to dry out. When they are not worn, dentures should be placed in
a denture cleanser soaking solution or in water. Your dentist can
recommend the best method. Never place dentures in hot water, which
could cause them to warp.
Like natural teeth, dentures must be brushed
daily to remove food deposits and plaque. Brushing helps prevent
dentures from becoming permanently stained and helps your mouth
stay healthy. It's best to use a brush designed for cleaning dentures.
Some denture wearers use hand soap or mild dishwashing liquid,
which are both acceptable.
The first step in cleaning dentures is
to rinse away loose food particles thoroughly. Moisten the brush
and apply denture cleanser. Brush every surface, scrubbing gently
to avoid damage.
Ultrasonic cleaners are also used to care for
dentures. However, using an ultrasonic cleaner does not replace
a thorough daily brushing.
Back to Top | Go
to Tooth Replacement Education
Can I make minor adjustments or repairs to my dentures?
You can seriously damage your dentures and harm your health by trying
to adjust or repair your dentures. A denture that is not made to
fit properly can cause irritation and sores. See your dentist if
your dentures break, crack, chip, or if one of the teeth becomes
loose. A dentist can often make the necessary adjustments or repairs
on the same day. A person who lacks the proper training will not
be able to reconstruct the denture. This can cause greater damage
to the denture and may cause problems in your mouth. Glue sold
over-the-counter often contains harmful chemicals and should not
be used on dentures.
Back to Top | Go
to Tooth Replacement Education
Will my dentures need to be replaced?
Over time, dentures will need to be relined, remade or rebased due
to normal wear. To make a rebased denture, the dentists uses the
existing denture teeth and makes a new denture base. Dentures may
need to be replaced because a mouth naturally changes with age.
Bone and gum ridges can recede or shrink, causing jaws to align
differently. Shrinking ridges can cause dentures to fit less securely.
Loose dentures can cause health problems, including sores and infections.
A loose denture also makes chewing more difficult and may change
your facial features. It's important to replace worn or poorly-fitting
dentures before they cause problems.
Back to Top | Go
to Tooth Replacement Education
Must I do anything special to care for my mouth?
Even with full dentures, you still need to take good care of your
mouth. Every morning, brush your gums, tongue and palate with a
soft-bristled brush before you put in your dentures. This removes
plaque and stimulates circulation in the mouth. Selecting a balanced
diet for proper nutrition is also important for maintaining a healthy
mouth.
Back to Top | Go
to Tooth Replacement Education
How often should I schedule dental appointments?
Your dentist will advise you about how often to visit. Regular dental
check-ups are important. The dentist will examine your mouth to
see if your dentures continue to fit properly. The dentist also
examines your mouth for signs of oral diseases including cancer.
With regular professional care, a positive attitude and persistence,
you can become one of the millions of people who wear their dentures
with a smile.
Back to Top | Go
to Tooth Replacement Education
