Dentures and Partial Dentures
Dentures are replacements for missing teeth that can be taken out and put back into your mouth. It takes some time in order to get used to wearing them but once you do, you will feel like they are your natural teeth. Today’s dentures are natural looking and more comfortable than ever, so you feel good while smiling and eating all the foods you like. There are two main types of dentures – full and partial.
Dr. Gallegos will help you choose the type of denture that’s best for you based on whether some or all of your teeth need to be replaced.
Full Dentures and Partial Dentures.
Full dentures have a flesh-colored acrylic base that fits over your gums. The base of the upper denture covers the palate (the root of your mouth), while that of the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate your tongue.
A partial denture rests on a metal framework that attaches to your natural teeth. Sometimes crowns are placed on some of your natural teeth and serve as anchors for the denture. Dentures are custom-made in a dental laboratory from impressions taken of your mouth. We at Gallegos Family Dentistry will help you determine which type of denture is best for you.
How Do I Get Used to My Dentures?
New dentures may feel uncomfortable for the first few weeks or even months. Eating and speaking may be a little hard and you could have a minor irritation or soreness while the muscles of your cheeks and tongue learn to hold your dentures in place. If you feel that the irritation is unbearable, contact your family dentist immediately.
Over a period of time, your denture will need to be relined, remade or rebased because it gets worn out eventually. Also, with age, your mouth naturally changes. This is why you should see your dentist annually for a checkup. Dr. Gallegos will give you advice on how to care for your denture and make it last longer. Lots of people are concerned with the price of dentures. However, dentures can be affordable and convenient without sacrificing the quality as we make sure to employ high-end techniques in an attempt to keep the denture cost appropriate.
If you’re looking for a dentist in Albuquerque, call us today and we will figure out the best approach for you!
Tips for caring for your dentures:
- When handling your dentures, stand over a folded towel or basin of water. Dentures are delicate and may break if dropped.
- Don’t let your dentures dry out. Place them in a denture cleanser soaking solution or in plain water when you’re not wearing them. Never use hot water, which can cause them to warp.
- Brushing your dentures daily will remove food deposits and plaque, and help prevent them from becoming stained. An ultrasonic cleaner may be used to care for your dentures, but it does not replace a thorough daily brushing.
- Brush your gums, tongue and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush before you insert your dentures. This stimulates circulation in your tissues and helps remove plaque.
- See your dentist if your dentures break, chip, crack or become loose. Don’t be tempted to adjust them yourself — this can damage them beyond repair.