Types of Dentures
Dentures are prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth. There are several different types of dentures available, each with their own pros and cons. The type of denture recommended will depend on a person's specific needs and preferences.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw need to be replaced. They are made of acrylic and sit over the gums. The upper denture covers the palate, while the lower denture rests on the gums of the lower jaw. Complete dentures:
- Require multiple fittings to ensure proper shape and comfort
- May need to be relined or remade as the jawbone shrinks over time
- Require some getting used to but allow patients to eat a variety of foods
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used when only some natural teeth remain. They can be removable or fixed:
Removable Partial Dentures
- Have replacement teeth attached to a pink acrylic base that matches the gums
- Have metal clasps that wrap around remaining natural teeth to hold it in place
- Can be easily removed for cleaning
- May need relining over time as the mouth changes
Fixed Partial Dentures (Bridges)
- Replacement teeth are fused between crowns placed over adjacent natural teeth
- Cannot be removed by the patient
- Require reshaping of adjacent teeth
- Can last 7-15 years with proper care
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implants can be used to provide extra stability and support for complete or partial dentures:
- Implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone
- Special attachments connect the denture to the implants
- Helps improve retention and distribution of biting forces
- Reduces bone loss compared to conventional dentures
When considering what type of denture is best, patients should discuss their specific needs with a dentist. Proper dental care and maintenance is important for any denture to prolong its lifespan.
Partial vs. Full Dentures
Dentures are prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth. There are two main types - partial and full dentures. The type recommended depends on how many natural teeth are remaining.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain in the mouth. A removable partial denture has replacement teeth attached to a pink acrylic base that matches the gums. It uses metal clasps that wrap around remaining teeth to secure it.
- Covers less surface area, making them more comfortable
- Requires less adjustments to fit properly
- Clasps can put added pressure on natural teeth
- Easier to speak and chew with some natural teeth
Full Dentures
Full dentures are used when all teeth need to be replaced in a jaw. The base fully covers the palate or gums.
- Upper denture covers entire palate for better stability
- Requires multiple fittings to get ideal shape
- Covers more surface area, may be bulky at first
- Eating and speaking takes time to get used to
Candidates for Each Type
Those missing just a few teeth that need replacement are good candidates for a removable partial denture. People missing most or all of their teeth are better candidates for complete full dentures.
| Partial Dentures | Full Dentures |
|---|---|
| Missing back molars only | Missing all upper teeth |
| Missing front incisors | Missing all lower teeth |
| Missing several non-adjacent teeth | Only have a few remaining teeth |
Talk to Your Dentist
Only a dentist can determine the best type of denture for your specific needs. Cost, ease of wear, and lifestyle may also impact the recommendation. Be sure to discuss all options thoroughly before deciding on partial or full dentures.
Removable vs. Fixed Dentures
Dentures that replace missing teeth can either be removable or permanently fixed in place. Both have their pros and cons.
Removable Dentures
As the name suggests, removable dentures can be taken out of the mouth for cleaning or at night. Partial removable dentures have replacement teeth attached to a pink acrylic base. Full removable dentures rest on the gums of the upper and/or lower jaws.
- Can be removed for easy cleaning
- Requires less alteration of natural teeth
- May need to be relined over time as gums change shape
- Can slip around or fall out if not fitted properly
Fixed Dentures
Fixed dentures, also called bridges, are permanently secured in the mouth through crowns on adjacent natural teeth.
- Provide a more stable, secure fit
- Cannot be removed for cleaning by patient
- Require filing down adjacent natural teeth for crowns
- Higher cost associated with crowns and greater tooth reduction
Comparing Removable and Fixed Dentures
| Removable | Fixed |
|---|---|
| Easier to clean | Sturdy and stable |
| Lower cost option | Highest retention |
| Adjustments needed over time | Permanently cemented |
| Partial and full options | Good for replacing one or two teeth |
Choosing Between Types
The type of denture recommended will depend on oral health status, cost considerations, and personal preferences. Have an open discussion with your dentist when weighing removable vs. fixed denture options.
Caring for Your Dentures
Dentures require proper care and cleaning to keep them functioning properly and lasting long. Here are some tips for taking care of your dentures.
Daily Cleaning
Daily cleaning keeps dentures free of bacteria, food debris, and stains that can build up over time. Here are some cleaning best practices:
- Rinse dentures after eating to remove food particles
- Gently brush using a soft bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive denture cleaner
- Use specialized denture brushes to clean all surfaces and crevices
- Soak dentures overnight in an appropriate soaking solution
Proper Storage
Storing dentures properly between wear times helps retain their shape and prevent warping.
- Keep dentures moist when not being worn
- Use water or a dedicated denture cleaner, not toothpaste
- Allow dentures to air dry before placing back in mouth
- Store upright in a covered denture cup filled with solution
Avoiding Damage
Be careful with dentures to prevent cracking or chipping the acrylic.
- Handle over a sink filled with water or a towel to avoid dropping
- Don't force dentures in place if they don't slide in easily
- Don't try to adjust the denture yourself if it feels tight
- Use denture-safe adhesive removers to avoid tugging on teeth
Regular Dentist Visits
See your dentist for regular checkups and notify them if the denture breaks, chips, or feels loose. Ill-fitting dentures can cause sores and bone loss over time. Relining or rebasing the dentures improves the fit.
Caring for dentures takes a little extra work but allows you to get the most out of your investment. Proper daily cleaning and storage habits keep dentures functioning like natural teeth.
Properly Cleaning Dentures
Cleaning dentures regularly and properly is key to keeping them hygienic and preventing damage. Here are some best practices for cleaning dentures correctly.
Daily Cleaning Routine
Get into a daily habit of thoroughly cleaning dentures.
- Rinse after eating to remove debris
- Handle over a sink of water to prevent dropping
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive soap
- Gently brush all surfaces - teeth, gums, palate
- Pay extra attention to crevices and clasps
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water
Weekly Deep Cleaning
Do a more thorough cleaning weekly using cleaning solutions.
- Soak dentures for 20-30 minutes in solution
- Use an effervescent tablet cleaner or alkaline peroxide soak
- Brush with a denture brush and liquid hand soap
- Use an antimicrobial rinse weekly to kill bacteria
Avoid Damaging Chemicals
Certain products can damage dentures.
- Don't use regular toothpaste, it is too abrasive
- Avoid bleaches which weaken denture materials
- Don't use hot or boiling water
- Don't soak longer than recommended in cleaners
Proper Storage
Store upright in a ventilated denture cup filled with solution.
- Use cool or room temperature water
- Store loosely, don't snap together tightly
- Keep moist with water or a soaking solution
- Change the solution daily
Properly cleaning and storing dentures daily helps keep them functioning and fitting well long-term.
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Storing Dentures Correctly
Storing dentures properly when they are not being worn is crucial for maintaining their shape and longevity. Here are some tips for correct denture storage.
Keep Them Moist
Dentures should always be kept moist when not being worn to avoid warping and cracking.
- Store in water, either plain or with a denture cleaning solution
- Change the water daily to avoid bacterial growth
- Use a ventilated storage container designed for dentures
- Never allow dentures to dry out between wearings
Avoid Chemicals
Don't store dentures in damaging chemicals or solutions.
- Avoid bleach, vinegar, antiseptics, and soap
- Don't use regular toothpaste which can be abrasive
- Watch for signs of wear if using cleanser tablets
- Read product instructions to avoid extended soaking
Keep Appliances Separate
If you have an upper and lower denture, store them separately.
- Don't click or snap dentures together when storing
- This allows even moisture contact on all surfaces
- Prevents warping from constant pressure and friction
Store Upright
Store dentures vertically to avoid improper shaping.
- Invest in a denture cup with vented lid to store upright
- Or use a denture brush stand upright in water
- Never place heavy objects on top of dentures
Correct storage between wearing maintains cleanliness, shape, and fit. Be sure to use proper solutions and techniques to store dentures properly.
Denture Adhesives and Fixatives
Denture adhesives and fixatives are products used to help keep dentures securely in place. They come in various forms and provide different levels of hold.
Cream Adhesives
Adhesive creams are applied directly to dentures before insertion. They provide hold by adhering to dentures and gums.
- Mess-free and easy to apply
- Provides cushioning between gums and dentures
- Good option for dentures with less suction
- May need reapplication after several hours
Adhesive Powders
Powder adhesives are sprinkled onto damp dentures and worked into a paste before inserting. They rely on moisture to provide grip.
- Let wearer control paste thickness and coverage
- Offers very strong long-lasting hold
- Can be messy and time consuming to apply
- Not recommended for dry mouth
Adhesive Pads
Pads are thin strips applied to the denture surface to enhance suction and retention. Some products combine pad on one side, cream on the other.
- Provide targeted grip and stability
- Can be applied precisely to problem spots
- Easy to remove and reposition
- Not as strong of hold as creams or powders
Things to Consider
When selecting an adhesive, consider hold needs, ease of use, and mouth conditions. Talk to your dentist to determine the best option for your dentures.
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Understanding The Importance Of Denture Hygiene
Denture hygiene is essential for good oral health. Poor denture hygiene can lead to malodor, poor esthetics, and plaque and calculus accumulation. Patients typically demonstrate poor levels of denture hygiene which impacts oral health. It is important to highlight to patients that dentures must be cleaned extraorally to ensure effective cleaning occurs and to reduce the risk of infection. Denture care products should be easy to handle, effective for removal of inorganic/organic deposits and stains, bactericidal and fungicidal, nontoxic to the patient, nondeleterious to the denture materials and inexpensive. Brushing is the most common cleansing method for complete dentures, and the use of specific brushes and cleansers is of paramount importance for good outcomes. At-home denture care involves traditional oral hygiene and denture cleaning. Loose dentures can promote the growth of bacteria as food can easily get trapped beneath them. A set of loose dentures could also shift easily and cause discomfort.
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What Are The Consequences Of Poor Denture Hygiene?
Poor denture hygiene can lead to a variety of consequences, including:
It is important to note that most of these complications can be prevented with proper guidance and education. Therefore, it is crucial to educate patients on the importance of denture hygiene and provide them with the necessary tools and instructions to maintain good oral health.
How Can Poor Denture Hygiene Lead To Systemic Diseases?
Poor denture hygiene can lead to systemic diseases in the following ways:
It is important to note that most of these complications can be prevented with proper guidance and education. Therefore, it is crucial to educate patients on the importance of denture hygiene and provide them with the necessary tools and instructions to maintain good oral health.
