What to Know About Dentures What is Denture?

One of the methods applied to fill the tooth deficiencies resulting from various damages in the teeth and gums is denture treatment. Denture treatment corrects the mouth and tooth structure aesthetically, increasing the patient's quality of life. Tooth deficiencies can lead to loss of self-confidence for the individual, not wanting to smile or even speak in society. Tooth loss also creates problems in terms of chewing function.

Dentures are prepared specifically for the individual and completely adapt to the oral structure. With dentures, tooth deficiencies are compensated for both aesthetically and functionally.

What Are the Types of Dentures?

The types of dentures are as follows:

• Removable dentures,
• Fixed dentures,
• Temporary (immediate) dentures,
• Overdenture dentures,
• Maxillofacial prostheses,
• Dentures for individuals with teeth grinding habits.

Removable Dentures The removable denture type is a type of denture that the patient can put on and take off by themselves. Removable dentures can be made for the patient's needs, and they can also be applied to patients with complete toothlessness. The removable denture applied to such patients is called a complete denture or palate prosthesis, and it is supported by the gum and palate if the patient has no tooth tissue left. Complete dentures are made of plastic.

Another type of removable denture, partial dentures, are applied to patients who do not have enough natural teeth or whose teeth are not suitable for a fixed bridge prosthesis. Partial dentures provide retention with clasps attached to the main teeth. Partial dentures are made of acrylic or single-piece casting.

In cases where all the main teeth of the patient are extracted to prevent the patient from being toothless, "immediate" dentures can be applied. Immediate dentures are temporary dentures that can be applied immediately after tooth extraction.

The last type of removable denture varieties is implant-supported dentures used in implant treatments.

Fixed Dentures As the name suggests, fixed dentures are a treatment method in which prostheses prepared to compensate for tooth deficiencies are permanently placed in the patient's mouth by the dentist. Fixed dentures do not move from their positions and cannot be removed by the patient. The methods used in fixed denture treatment are as follows:

• Crown: Recommended for patients with single tooth loss,
• Bridge: Preferred for patients with multiple tooth loss or with separated teeth,
• Adhesive bridge: A method used in anterior tooth deficiencies,
• Telescopic crown: A crown method preferred in curved and crooked teeth,
• Implant: Implants, which can be used in all types of tooth loss, are most important for being made of titanium, so they are very strong and durable.

How Is Denture Treatment Done? How Long Does It Take?

Denture treatment consists of several stages. In the first session, the oral structure of the patient is thoroughly analyzed, and the treatment method to be applied is determined. After the necessary examinations are done and the patient's mouth impression is taken, the denture making process begins. The final stage is fitting the dentures. All of these are completed within an average of 5 sessions and 2 weeks.

Who Can Get Dentures?

Dentures are generally suitable for patients who have lost a significant portion of their teeth due to untreated decay, breakage, or loss. Especially elderly patients prefer denture treatment.

Recovery Process After Getting Dentures There is no recovery process after getting dentures. Patients return home immediately after the procedure and continue their daily lives; however, it takes some time to get used to dentures. This period varies from patient to patient. Even in very well-made dentures, it is recommended to avoid hard foods initially and chew slowly by taking small bites. Initially, it will be beneficial to place food on both sides of the mouth while chewing.

Patients usually get used to dentures within 4-6 weeks and after this period, they comfortably use their removable teeth like their real teeth. For dentures that cause pain and discomfort while eating, you should not hesitate to consult your dentist. These dentures should be replaced if necessary.

The most important thing for patients who have undergone denture treatment is the cleanliness and maintenance of their dentures. Patients who take good care of their dentures have much longer-lasting dentures.

To clean complete dentures, you can use soap and a toothbrush. Brushing your dentures thoroughly with a toothbrush you have foamed well in the sink is the best cleaning method. While brushing the dentures, toothpaste and hot water should be avoided.

Another point to be considered in denture care is to always remove the dentures and store them in their boxes before going to bed at night. If dentures do not remain moist, their shapes may be distorted, so make sure to add water or solution to their boxes. You should not forget to rinse your dentures with clean water before wearing them in the morning.