Losing a tooth can affect everything from your appearance to your ability to speak and chew properly. Luckily, dentures exist to replace missing teeth. If you’re considering this option, you may have many questions about it. To help you decide whether an artificial smile is right for you, here are answers to a few common ones. 

Your Denture Questions Answered

Who needs them?

You may be a good candidate if you are missing one or more teeth. Dentures are made with a metal frame fitted with false teeth, also known as pontics. This frame is covered by a gum-colored acrylic, giving it a gum-like appearance. If missing teeth are affecting your self-esteem or chewing and speaking abilities, dentures will improve your quality of life. 

Which types are available? 

They are separated into two basic categories: full and partial. Full dentures are designed to replace an entire periodontal arch. This option is helpful if you’re missing several or most teeth. Partial units snap onto the existing teeth or palate, a helpful solution if you’re missing only a few teeth and don’t want to extract healthy ones. 

What type of care do they require? 

They need to be sanitized and soaked overnight to remove bacteria that cause bad breath. You shouldn’t let them dry out, as that can cause cracks or warping, creating fit problems.

Rinse them after meals and brush them at least daily with a nonabrasive, denture-safe toothpaste to keep them clean. As you brush them, work over a soft surface, such as a counter covered with a bath towel. This will prevent damage from accidental drops. 

How long do they last? 

Dentures are a long-term solution to tooth loss, as a set can last anywhere between five to 15 years. With careful maintenance, you make your prosthetic last longer. In addition to following the care steps outlined above, have your oral care provider check the fit annually. An adjustment will help prolong the life of your existing unit if a drop affects the alignment. 

Whether you have recently lost a tooth or have been living with tooth loss for years, the team at North Chautauqua Dental PC in Dunkirk, NY, will help. Their experienced dentists assist with everything from routine checkups to dental emergencies to help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile at every stage in life. Visit their website to learn more about their work, or call (716) 366-6822 to schedule an appointment.