Dentures

How do I clean dentures?

Traditional removable dentures require proper care to keep them clean, free from stains, and looking great. Below are some cleaning steps and things to avoid when using traditional removable dentures:

• Remove and rinse dentures after eating by running water over them to remove food debris and loose particles.
• Handle them carefully and don’t bend or damage the plastic or clasps when cleaning.
• Clean your mouth after removing dentures with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Brush your dentures once a day and soak them in a nonabrasive denture cleanser to remove food, plaque, and other deposits.
• Soak dentures overnight in a mild denture-soaking solution to keep them moist and so they hold their shape.
• Schedule regular dental checkups so your dentists can ensure proper fit, prevent slippage and discomfort and check the inside of your mouth to ensure it stays healthy.
• Likewise, avoid abrasive cleaning materials, whitening toothpaste, and products containing bleach on your dentures, and hot or boiling water that could warp them.

What are the different types of dentures?

There are two types of dentures available. Traditional dentures that can be easily removed and cleaned on a daily basis and those that are “fixed”, also known as fixed dentures. Fixed dentures are permanently secured using dental implants. Once installed, they cannot be removed unless oral surgery is provided. With the proper care, fixed dentures will last a lifetime and feel almost indistinguishable from natural teeth.

Traditional dentures are non-surgical denture options. These dentures grip around the dental arch and remaining jawbone and rely on suction to remain securely in place. They are removable for easy cleaning and the patient does not have a recovery period before they can use them.

What are full dentures?

Sometimes dental conditions, such as tooth decay or gum disease, can become unmanageable. This may lead to the decision to remove your remaining teeth on one or both jaws. Regardless of the case, full dentures are an economical and efficient way to restore your function and smile.

A complete denture consists of a thin acrylic base that rests on the gum tissue and is the same color as your gums. Porcelain or acrylic replacement teeth built into the base give the appearance of natural teeth emerging from the gums. We know that your smile is unique, and Dr. Hammontree has the experience to help you select the teeth that appear most natural and harmonious in your smile. This gives you the option to customize the way you look, whether you want a “new” smile or just want to restore the one you had.

While dentures boast a long history of successful use, modern technology offers better options to enhance the way they fit and the way you look. In many cases, dentures can be secured more firmly to your jaw with the use of dental implants, placed in the jaw and connected under the base of the denture. This connection can be designed to create permanent fixation of the denture or to allow for its removal at times. In addition to having greater retention and a more natural look, implant-supported dentures tend to last longer. Dr. Hammontree can discuss these options and help you understand the ways they can improve your experience with dentures.

What are partial dentures?

Whether you’ve lost one tooth or many, chewing and smiling can become more difficult because of the gaps left behind. Partial dentures are an economical solution to replace the missing teeth and fill in the spaces, improving chewing ability and the confidence to smile. A partial denture in place will also help keep your natural teeth from shifting, lowering the risk of losing those teeth in the future.

Most partial dentures contain a thin metal framework that is designed to rest close to your gums and allow for a smooth, non-bulky feel. The framework is supported by your natural teeth to provide a reliable, secure appliance that is easy to use. Where teeth are missing, natural-looking replacement teeth are attached to the frame, and gum-colored acrylic is used to make the appliance blend with your mouth. Again, your mouth and your needs are unique, and Dr. Hammontree works with skilled technicians to create a solution that is comfortable and esthetic.

With advances in technology, implants can also be used to support removable partial dentures, improving the fit while reducing the size of the appliance. Dentures inherently bring some challenges, especially to new wearers. Our goal is to minimize everyday frustrations as much as possible.

We look forward to discussing your options to make your mouth full again and to give you back a confident, glowing smile!

How long do dentures last?

On average, dentures last 7-10 years before they need to be replaced. However, the quality of care given to dentures can impact how long they last. Removing and rinsing dentures after eating, brushing your dentures daily, soaking dentures overnight, and maintaining regular dental checkups can all help extend the life of your dentures.