The passage of time can be hard on teeth, which is why most adults and seniors are missing at least one tooth. However, if your smile has had trouble for years, your dentist might recommend dentures to restore your look and biting ability. Here are four frequently asked questions about dentures, and why you shouldn’t worry. 

Your Denture Questions Answered

What varieties of dentures are available? 

In addition to the full dentures you might be used to seeing, dentists today can also create custom partial dentures to make it easier to replace back teeth. Dentists might also recommend implant supported dentures that won’t slip out of place, or prosthetics just designed to replace your upper or lower teeth. 

Will I get used to my dentures? 

Dentures can feel foreign in the mouth at first, and it will take some time to get used to wearing your prosthetics. However, over time, your brain and tongue will adjust to using the dentures. On average, it takes about a month to get used to wearing dentures with normal wear. 

How long do dentures last? 

Because your bite can change slightly after you start to wear dentures, you will need to replace or reline your prosthetics once every 5 to 10 years. 

How can I care for my dentures? 

To keep your dentures in good condition, they should be cleaned with a soft-bristled brush and flossed like your regular teeth and sanitized overnight. Let them soak overnight in water and a denture-cleaning solution, as letting them dry out could warp the material. 

Adjusting to your new dentures can take some time, which is why working with the team at Four Corners Dental Group in Alaska can be so helpful. In addition to offering preventative and restorative dentistry, this team of dental professionals also offers cosmetic dental services including prosthetics, making it easy to update your smile. Find out more about how they can help by visiting them online. To schedule an appointment, call (907) 258-3384 for their Anchorage office or (907) 376-2790 for their Wasilla location.