What to expect when wearing dentures for the first time?

Your new set of dentures must stay in your mouth for about the first 24 hours without removal to allow the healing process to begin. Get lots of rest for the next few days. Allow your mouth to get used to the denture by biting gently after 4 hours or as your dentist recommends. Refrain from drinking alcohol to help to heal. If you have any swelling, use ice packs to help with discomfort.

Get Dentures in Medicine Hat, AB | Park Meadows Dental

Are your teeth rotted or missing due to ageing, trauma, or disease, and you want to replace them with a new set of dentures? Advancements in dental technology have improved dentures in terms of fit, look, and durability. You don’t have to live with missing teeth, limit your food choices, or hide your smile. Dentures are a great way to give you a full set of teeth at a reasonable cost. If you’ve never considered dentures, you should visit Park Meadows Dental to discuss the different options available to you. The replacement of worn-out dental appliances will help you look and feel better.

Artificial teeth come in a few varieties. Each different type of denture appliance is carefully constructed in a lab to mimic the look and feel of your natural teeth. You may choose traditional dentures, partial dentures, or dentures supported by implants. Getting dentures can give you the freedom you desire and a healthy-looking smile.

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What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. These artificial replacements are custom-made to fit each individual’s mouth, providing a natural look and feel that closely mimics real teeth and gums. Dentures are typically constructed from high-quality materials such as acrylic resin, metal, or a combination of both. Acrylic resin is often used for the gum-colored base, while the artificial teeth can be made from either acrylic or porcelain.

The primary goal of dentures is to restore the functionality and aesthetics of a patient’s teeth, enabling them to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. By filling in gaps left by missing teeth, dentures also help maintain the structure of the mouth and the alignment of remaining teeth. This is crucial for preventing further oral health issues, such as shifting teeth, bone loss in the jaw, and changes in facial structure, which can lead to a sunken appearance and make a person look older.

Different types of dentures

What are some of your options when considering dentures? If you are missing a few teeth, a partial denture is an ideal way to fill in the gap. Missing teeth can lead to other dental issues, such as a change in facial shape, difficulty eating certain foods, and an uneven bite. There are several types of dentures, each catering to different needs and preferences:

Overdentures

Placed over your natural roots or titanium implanted roots
Can be taken out with ease
Used when you have some natural teeth remaining

Full/Complete and Partial Dentures; What you need to know

Constructed out of a hard dental resin
Care must be taken not to crack or chip them, as they are not as durable as natural teeth. You may want to have a second set in case your dentures break from being dropped.
May need replacement after several years
Composed of resin or a more flexible polymer material
It fits snugly up against your dental arch, mimicking your natural gum line
It supports your mouth structure and prevents further changes in shape
Daily cleaning is required with a special toothpaste and toothbrush.

Immediate dentures

Placed in your mouth immediately after your teeth have been extracted.
May be disposed of after your mouth heals.
Made from a mould created before the removal of your teeth, it mimics the look of your natural teeth
Can be refitted for comfort and functionality as your jaw and gums change during the healing process

Implant-Supported Dentures

These are anchored by dental implants, providing a more stable and secure fit compared to traditional dentures.
These implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, which act as artificial tooth roots. Over time, the implants fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating a solid foundation for the dentures. This secure attachment minimizes movement and slippage, allowing for more natural chewing and speaking.
Implant-supported dentures are an excellent option for patients seeking a more permanent and comfortable solution, as they can significantly enhance the overall quality of life by offering improved function, greater comfort, and increased confidence.

Common Causes Of Tooth Loss?

Dentures are suitable for individuals who have lost some or all of their teeth due to various reasons. The loss of teeth can significantly impact one’s ability to perform everyday functions such as eating, speaking, and smiling. Here are some common causes of tooth loss that might make someone a candidate for dentures:

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. It occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, forms on teeth and produces acids that erode the tooth enamel. If left untreated, this decay can progress, causing severe damage to the tooth structure and leading to cavities and infections that may necessitate tooth extraction.

Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is another major cause of tooth loss. This condition affects the tissues and bones that support the teeth. Early stages, known as gingivitis, involve inflammation and bleeding of the gums. If it progresses to periodontitis, it can lead to the destruction of the supporting bone and connective tissue, resulting in loose teeth or tooth loss.

Injury or Trauma

Accidents and injuries can also lead to the loss of teeth. Physical trauma to the mouth from falls, sports injuries, or other incidents can result in teeth being knocked out or damaged beyond repair. In such cases, dentures offer an effective way to replace the missing teeth and restore the person’s smile and ability to chew and speak properly.

Aging

Aging is a natural process that can lead to tooth loss over time. As people age, they may experience wear and tear on their teeth, decreased saliva production, and other health issues that can contribute to dental problems. Older adults are more susceptible to conditions such as tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. For many seniors, dentures provide a reliable solution to maintain oral health and overall quality of life, allowing them to eat a balanced diet and interact socially without embarrassment.

What to Do After You Get Your Dentures

Follow-Up Visits:

Schedule follow-up appointments with your dentist to ensure the dentures fit properly and make any necessary adjustments.

Proper Cleaning:

Clean your dentures daily to remove food particles and plaque. Use a soft-bristled brush and mild denture cleaner. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive.

Oral Hygiene:

Even with full dentures, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene. Clean your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth daily.
Handling Dentures:H3 Handle your dentures with care to avoid dropping and damaging them. When not in use, store them in a denture-soaking solution to keep them moist and retain their shape.

Dietary Adjustments:

Start with soft foods and gradually introduce harder foods as you become more comfortable. Chew slowly, and use both sides of your mouth to keep the dentures stable.

Speech Practice:

Practice speaking aloud to get used to the feel of your dentures. Reading out loud can help improve your speech clarity.

Regular Dental Check-Ups:

Continue to see your dentist regularly to monitor the condition of your dentures and oral health.

Denture Cleaning

Your dentist will recommend using a specially designed, soft toothbrush to clean your dentures. You will also need to use toothpaste made for artificial teeth.
Avoid using electric toothbrushes, as they can damage your dentures.
Do not use regular toothpaste to clean your dentures.
Rinse your dentures under cool, running water, and rinse your mouth well once you have removed your dentures.
Clean your dentures every day.
- It is a good practice to remove your dentures at bedtime to give your gums time to relax. You can choose to take them out at a different time of day if more convenient.
Remember to clean your natural teeth and gums as you would normally.
Use a small washcloth to gently wipe your gums to clear away any excess adhesive or bacteria.
Store your dentures as recommended by your dentist. This may require rinsing and storing in a dry case or soaking overnight. Not all dentures can be soaked overnight due to the metal parts.

Dentures can help you get your smile back and allow you to continue eating your favourite foods. Contact Park Meadows Dental for a full overview of the entire process.

Alternatives to Dentures

While dentures are a popular solution, there are alternatives that might be more suitable depending on individual needs and preferences:

Dental Implants:

Implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a permanent and stable solution for replacing missing teeth and can support crowns, bridges, or even dentures.

Dental Bridges:

Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth or implants. They are a fixed solution and can provide excellent aesthetics and functionality.

All-on-4 Implants:

This is a technique where a full arch of teeth is supported by only four implants. It is a less invasive and cost-effective alternative to traditional implant methods.

Temporary Dentures (Flippers):

These are removable and typically used as a temporary solution while waiting for a more permanent dental restoration.

Choosing the right solution depends on various factors, including the number of teeth missing, bone density, overall health, and budget. A thorough consultation with a dental professional is essential to determining the best option for you.

Financing options

We offer several financing options:

We Offer 0% Payment Plans

Instant financing can be arranged to assist you in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. We offer 0% payment plans that will allow you to spread the cost of your dental services over a period of 6-24 months. Treatments over $500 are eligible for this plan. You can get the treatments you want or need now and pay for them in affordable monthly payments. Keep your budget and your oral health on track. Speak to one of our staff members about how to apply for financing, or follow the direct link on our website.

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Frequently Asked questions

Dentures are a great way to give you a full set of teeth at a reasonable cost. Advancements in dental technology have improved dentures in terms of fit, look, and durability. You don’t have to live with missing teeth, limiting your food choices or hiding your smile.

Your new set of dentures must stay in your mouth for about the first 24 hours without removal to allow the healing process to begin.
Get lots of rest for the next few days.
Allow your mouth to get used to the denture by biting gently after 4 hours or as your dentist recommends.
Refrain from drinking alcohol to help to heal.
If you have any swelling, use ice packs to help with discomfort.

At least 8 hours a day.

We recommended waiting at least 2 hours before eating after having them placed.

Dentures can help you regain your smile and allow you to continue eating your favourite foods. Book an appointment with Park Meadows Dental for a full overview of the entire process, or ask any questions you might have over the phone at 403-527-9833.

Dentures In Medicine Hat, AB