TOp Houston Dentures Provider
A denture, also known as a complete denture, is a removable appliance designed to replace missing natural teeth and provide support for the cheeks and lips. Typically made of acrylic, dentures can be created in two ways:
- Conventional Denture: This type is made after all teeth have been removed and the gums have fully healed.
- Immediate Denture: This type is created and placed immediately after tooth extraction, allowing the tissues to heal underneath the denture.
An upper denture generally covers the roof of the mouth with a flesh-colored acrylic base, while a lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate the tongue. The teeth in dentures can be made from plastic, porcelain, or a combination of both materials. Dentures can also be designed to fit over treated teeth or be attached to dental implants for a more secure fit.
Over time, dentures may wear down and require replacement or relining to maintain proper jaw alignment. This is because the bone and gum ridges gradually shrink after tooth extractions. Regular dental check-ups remain essential for denture wearers to monitor oral health and detect any changes or potential issues.
Denture Care: Advice and tips on caring for your dentures
- Only your dental professional is qualified to diagnose your oral health and adjust your denture or partial.
- Dentures should be brushed inside and outside daily with a soft, large nylon denture tooth brush with round-ended bristles.
- Use denture creams instead of toothpastes, which are too abrasive and will scratch your denture. Rinse with cold water.
- Dentures warp if placed in hot water.
- Inspect your denture regularly for worn teeth.
- Worn and stained dentures can make you look older and cause your dentures to function poorly.
- Discuss all your current medications with your doctor and dental professional.
- Be sure to visit your dental professional regularly.
- Have loose dentures checked immediately as they can cause friction and pressure on the gum tissues and bones.
- When not in use, cover dentures with water or a denture-cleaning solution to prevent them from drying out.
- Most dental insurance policies provide coverage for new dentures every 5 years.
Denture Exams & Maintenance
Dentures are a valuable investment in your oral health, requiring regular care and attention to ensure optimal performance. The fit of your dentures significantly affects your oral tissues and overall well-being. Annual exams with Dr. Hernandez will help ensure your dentures function correctly and support your oral health.
Medical and Dental History Update
Regularly updating your medical and dental history is crucial for maintaining oral health. Certain medical and dental conditions can impact how your dentures fit and function.
Annual Oral Exam
An annual oral exam is essential for detecting any abnormalities, including potentially cancerous or pre-cancerous lesions. Early detection can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes.
Tissue and Bone Assessment
Ill-fitting dentures can cause changes in your gums and bone structure, potentially leading to discomfort or oral health issues. Dr. Hernandez can assess your condition and provide tailored solutions to ensure your dentures fit properly and support your oral tissues.
Comfort, Fit, and Integrity of Dentures
Problems such as bite issues, speech difficulties, or irritation from poorly fitting dentures can occur over time. These should be addressed promptly to avoid more serious issues in the future. Dr. Hernandez will check for cracks, chips, or loose teeth and recommend necessary repairs or adjustments.
Denture Relines
As your gum tissues change over time, dentures can become looser and more prone to movement. Professional denture relines, typically every 1-2 years, ensure a secure and functional fit.
- Hard Denture Reline: Every two years, a hard reline replaces the inner surface of the denture to match the current shape of your gums, ensuring optimal contact and fit.
- Soft Denture Reline: For patients with tender gums or sore spots, a soft reline provides a more comfortable solution, lasting 1-2 years before needing replacement.
- Temporary Relines: If your gums are swollen or misshapen, a temporary reline can be used to relieve inflammation and improve fit until permanent relining can be done.
Denture Rebase & Repairs
- Rebase: If the denture teeth are still in good condition but the acrylic base is worn or damaged, a rebase procedure replaces the denture’s acrylic base, maintaining the existing teeth. This is often recommended for cracked or old dentures.
- Denture Repairs: If your denture is damaged, it’s important to address it promptly. Repairs can restore a fractured denture to its original condition, often on the same day, and prevent further damage.
Soft Denture Liners
Soft liners are made from pliable material and are placed between your denture and gums to absorb shock and improve comfort. These liners are especially helpful for patients with receded or sensitive gums.
- Advantages of Soft Liners: They provide greater comfort, improve chewing, and are well-tolerated by most patients. Regular follow-up visits with Dr. Hernandez are necessary to ensure the liner remains in good condition and the dentures continue to fit properly.
By staying on top of routine exams and maintenance, you can keep your dentures functioning properly and ensure ongoing comfort and health. Dr. Hernandez will work with you to keep your dentures in the best possible condition.
