Frequently Asked Questions
The Pristine Dental team is eager to answer all your questions about restorative dentistry, especially dentures. Leave us a message online anytime.
Are All Dentures the Same?
Not at all. Dentures come in several forms! For instance, there are temporaries that dentists give to patients while they craft or adjust permanent ones. Partial dentures are for those who still have healthy natural teeth, featuring gum-colored bases, artificial teeth, and discreet clasps. Lastly, complete dentures replace every tooth in the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both.
What Are the Benefits of Dentures?
They are non-surgical and more affordable than other restorative options. With high-quality and expert craftsmanship, these appliances can look good and last long! Maintenance is manageable, too. However, since these removable devices can shift as the wearer eats, speaks, or smiles, many seek alternatives.
What Are Alternative Options for Dentures?
There are many ways to replace missing teeth. A dental bridge is one, which consists of artificial teeth anchored by crowns placed over the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. There are dental implants as well, surgically placed into the jawbone to support crowns.
If you want full dentures with additional security, implant-supported or snap-on dentures are the middle ground. Dr. Cooper at Pristine Dental can determine which restorative treatments should make the most sense for your case.
What Do I Do if I Damage My Dentures?
If your denture cracks, chips, or becomes loose, resist the temptation to repair it yourself. Household glues and over-the-counter kits in pharmacies close by can worsen the problem!
Instead, schedule an appointment for professional repairs as soon as possible. You can either get your prosthetics relined or rebased, depending on the adjustments needed. If the damage is too extensive to fix, a replacement is your only choice.
In case repairs require days or weeks, dentists can provide temporaries.
How Do I Take Care of My Dentures?
Proper care helps your artificial teeth stay clean, comfortable, and in good condition for years. Each evening, remove your dentures, rinse them thoroughly to wash away food particles, and gently brush them to clean every surface. Then, soak them overnight in a denture-cleaning solution or water to keep them moist.
While your dentures are soaking and before you sleep, brush your gums, tongue, and palate to remove bacteria and stimulate healthy tissues. In the morning, rinse your dentures before placing them back into your mouth.
Finally, visit your dentist regularly for monitoring. These consultations are also opportunities to request adjustments and to identify any other oral health issues that require a different procedure.