Have you ever wondered what dentures are made of and how they look?
Dentures are removable replacements for patients suffering from tooth loss. They are custom-made to fit your mouth and gums, thereby giving you a natural appearance and comfortable feel. They can replace a single tooth or many teeth in either the upper or lower jaw.
Traditional dentures have been around since ancient times, but it’s only recently that they have become more aesthetically pleasing. In this blog, we’ll discuss what modern dentures are made of and what they actually look like. We will also provide you with an overview of the different types of dentures available so you can make an informed decision about which one is best for your needs.
What are dentures, and how can they improve the appearance of your smile?
Dentures are a type of prosthetic device that is designed to replace missing or damaged teeth. Dentures are customized to fit each individual’s mouth, and prosthetic teeth can be made to closely resemble the appearance of your natural teeth. They are most commonly made out of acrylic resin and can be used to restore the shape and appearance of your smile. Dentures can improve the aesthetic of your smile by providing a full set of natural-looking false teeth. They allow you to still eat all your favorite foods as well as improve your speech and facial appearance. They are also removable, which makes them easier for denture patients to clean than fixed bridgework or implants.
Types of Dentures
Complete Denture
A complete denture is a set of artificial teeth that are designed to replace all of the real teeth in one’s mouth. Complete dentures can either cover the entire arch of upper or lower teeth. The goal of complete dentures is to restore a patient’s bite and ability to speak and chew properly, as well as improve their aesthetic appearance with natural-looking false teeth. This type of denture requires regular maintenance and periodic adjustments for optimum fit, comfort, and function.
Partial Denture
A partial denture is a removable dental appliance used to replace one or multiple missing teeth. It consists of a gum-colored base that fits over your gums and holds one or more replacement teeth in place, usually with clasps. They can also be paired with dental implants for improved stability and to prevent further bone loss. Partial dentures provide support for adjacent teeth, stop the migration of remaining natural teeth, and help maintain the shape of your face and lips. They also help to improve your ability to chew and speak properly and give you a natural, healthy look.
Most Common Denture Materials
Acrylic Resin
Acrylic resin is the most common material for dentures bases and teeth. It is a lightweight, durable plastic. Acrylic resin is also very strong and resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for long-term use. Acrylic resin teeth come in many shades to match the natural teeth in the mouth.
Metal
Metals, such as surgical-grade stainless steel, are sometimes used in partial dentures to provide extra strength and support. Metal plates are usually used in areas that need more stability and durability, such as the back teeth or molars.
Flexible Denture Materials
Flexible dentures are made out of a special kind of plastic that is more flexible and comfortable than traditional acrylic resin. This type of material is ideal for those who have difficulty wearing conventional partial dentures due to sore spots or irritation. Flexible dentures are also less likely to break or crack, making them a great choice for long-term use.
Tips for Cleaning Your Dentures and Maintaining Good Oral Health
Taking proper care of your dentures is essential to promoting good dental hygiene and ensuring the longevity of this tooth replacement device. Here are some tips for taking care of your dentures:
- Be sure to remove your dentures before going to bed. You don’t want to sleep in them, as they can irritate your mouth and gum tissues and can cause bacteria to grow and lead to bad breath and gum disease.
- If you only have a partial denture and have some natural teeth, remove your denture before brushing your teeth. You’ll want to brush your natural teeth twice a day and floss like normal to keep your mouth and teeth healthy. This will ensure you get to remove any food particles that may be stuck between teeth.
- Removable dentures need to be cleaned regularly. You should remove your dentures to clean them and brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture-specific toothpaste. You can also soak them in a denture cleanser at night.
- Schedule regular dental visits every six months to ensure your mouth and teeth are healthy. This is important even if you have no natural teeth remaining. This will also help ensure that you do not have ill-fitting dentures, and they can be adjusted as needed.
Contact Our Dentist to Learn More About this Tooth Replacement Treatment
If you are considering dentures as a tooth replacement treatment, contact our dentist today. Our team can help you determine if dentures are the right option for you and provide more information about what they are made of and how they might look on you.