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Are you tired of feeling self-conscious about your missing teeth? Do you long for a confident smile that lights up the room? Look no further than dentures! These remarkable dental appliances have been transforming smiles and restoring confidence for decades. Whether you're missing a few teeth or an entire arch, dentures can provide the solution you've been searching for.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are custom-made oral appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are designed to fit comfortably in your mouth, restoring both the functionality and appearance of natural teeth. Dentures can be classified into two main types: complete dentures and partial dentures.

Complete dentures, also known as full dentures, are used when all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw are missing. These removable prosthetic devices consist of a gum-colored acrylic base that supports a set of artificial teeth. Complete dentures rely on suction or dental adhesive for stability within the mouth.

Partial dentures, on the other hand, are employed when some natural teeth remain in the jawbone. This type of denture is often recommended to fill gaps left by missing teeth and prevent neighboring natural teeth from shifting positions. Partial dentures typically have metal clasps or attachments that anchor onto existing teeth for support.

How Do Dentures Work?

The process of getting dentures begins with a thorough examination by your dentist, who will determine if you are a suitable candidate for dentures. If so, impressions and measurements of your mouth will be taken to ensure a proper fit. Once the dentures are ready, they will be placed in your mouth and secured using either suction or dental adhesive. It may take some time for you to adjust to wearing dentures, but with practice, eating and speaking will become easier.

Dentures work by providing support for facial muscles that can sag when teeth are missing. They also enable you to chew food properly and speak more clearly. Additionally, they help distribute forces evenly across your jawbone, preventing further bone loss. Regular visits to the dentist are necessary as adjustments may be needed over time due to changes in the shape of your mouth or gums.

How to Care for Dentures?

Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and functionality of your dentures. Here are some tips on how to take care of your dentures effectively:

1. Clean them daily: Just like natural teeth, dentures need regular cleaning. Remove your dentures and clean them thoroughly using a soft-bristle toothbrush or denture brush. Avoid using regular toothpaste as it can be too abrasive for the material.
2. Handle with care: When handling your dentures, always do so over a soft towel or basin filled with water. This will help prevent damage if they accidentally slip out of your hands.
3. Soak overnight: It's important to keep your dentures moist when you're not wearing them. Soaking them in a mild denture cleaning solution or plain water overnight can help remove stains and bacteria.
4. Rinse after eating: After every meal, remove any food particles by rinsing your mouth and gently brushing the surface of the dentures.
5. Visit your dentist regularly: Regular check-ups with your dentist are crucial even if you have full or partial dentures. They can assess the fit, make adjustments if necessary, and provide professional cleaning to maintain optimal oral health.

By following these simple yet important steps, you can ensure that your dentures remain comfortable, functional, and last longer!

Advantages of Dentures

Dentures have been a popular solution for people who are missing teeth. They offer several advantages that can improve both the appearance and functionality of your smile.

1. Enhanced Chewing Ability: One of the main benefits of dentures is that they restore the ability to chew food properly. With missing teeth, it can be challenging to enjoy certain foods, but dentures provide support and stability, allowing you to eat a wide variety of foods with ease.
2. Improved Speech: Missing teeth can lead to speech difficulties such as slurred words or mumbling. Dentures fill in those gaps, helping you speak clearly and confidently again.
3. Restored Confidence: Having a complete set of teeth can significantly boost your self-confidence and overall well-being. Dentures give you the freedom to smile without hesitation, improving your social interactions and quality of life.
4. Facial Support: When natural teeth are lost, facial muscles may sag or droop due to lack of support. Dentures help maintain facial structure by providing support for lips and cheeks, giving a more youthful appearance.
5. Cost-Effective Solution: Compared to other tooth replacement options like dental implants or bridges, dentures tend to be more affordable upfront while still offering effective results for restoring oral function.

To find out more about the dental services offered at our dental practice, call (505) 292-8515 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 8400 Osuna Rd NE, Suite 5B, Albuquerque 87111.