Dentures Vancouver

Dentures (otherwise known as false teeth) are prosthetic teeth that are made to replace missing teeth. There are many types of dentures, but the most common dentures are ones that replace a full arch of teeth and are removable. This article by our Vancouver dental clinic, will cover everything you need to know about dentures.

Why Are Dentures Used?

There are many reasons why a person would get dentures. Some people choose dentures as a cosmetic measure to improve how they look. For others, dentures are a necessity due to missing some or all of their natural teeth. Some patients are not good candidates for dental restoration or reconstruction (crowns, bridges, implants etc.) therefore the only way to enable the person to chew and speak properly, is to have dentures.

Who is a Candidate for Dentures?

People who have lost one or more natural teeth and are not good candidates for dental implants, due to financial issue s or severe damage to the teeth and gums. Dentures are a suitable alternative for these people.

Alternatives to Dentures

Dental implants are an alternative to dentures. They provide a more stable environment for chewing, and look and feel more natural than dentures. Dental implants are time consuming and expensive, so they are not always an option for some patients.

Types of Dentures

There are several types of dentures. Depending on the issue, a patient may receive partial dentures or complete dentures.

Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used to replace one or more natural teeth. The dentures are made of a removable bridge that consists of a plastic base. The base is connected by a metal frame that will attach to existing teeth and hold the partial denture in place in the mouth.

Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are used to replace an entire arch (top or bottom row) of teeth. They are made of plastic and metal and can be held in place a number of ways:
• A natural seal created by the saliva in your mouth
• Dental adhesive
• Attached to implants in your gums

What are the costs of dentures in Vancouver?

If you have extended dental benefits, some or all of the cost of dentures may be covered. Check with your provider to see what portion of the cost they will pay for.

Procedure
You and your dentist will decide the type of dentures that are best for you. You will then have a series of appointments in preparation for your dentures. During these appointments, the following things will happen:

1. Your mouth will be prepped. If necessary, extractions of existing teeth will be performed.
2. Your dentist will make a series of molds of your jaws and gums.
3. Wax models will be made that recreate the shape and position of your natural teeth. This will enable you to chew and speak properly when using your new dentures.
4. You will decide on the final shape and color of the dentures.
5. The models will be sent to a prosthodontist (denturist) for creation of the dentures. It may take several weeks for your dentist to receive the dentures back in his office.
6. During your final visit, your dentist will ensure a proper fit, and you will receive information on how to properly care for and maintain your new dentures.

The Learning Curve of Dentures
You will notice several things once you begin wearing your new dentures:
• Changes in speech
• Changes in chewing
• Changes in looks
• How best to keep your dentures in place

All of the above changes are normal and to expected. Many patients report that they have trouble pronouncing certain letters when they first begin wearing their dentures. With a little practice, your speech will return to normal.

The same goes for chewing – it will take a little bit of practice while your mouth gets used to your new dentures. Be sure to eat only small bites of softer foods while you learn what feels most comfortable for you. As well, be cautious of hot foods and drinks. Because your dentures are not real teeth and gums, you will not be as aware of hot and cold as you normally would.

Obviously you will notice a change in your looks. Your face will appear fuller when wearing your dentures, and you will have a lovely even smile. Dentures can change a person’s life if they’ve been suffering from bad teeth throughout their lifetime.

There are a few different ways that you’ll most likely experiment with to keep your dentures in place. Many patients report that they do not need to use any sort of adhesive, particularly for upper dentures. The saliva in your mouth will create a natural seal that can very often be enough to keep your dentures in place. However, if you find that you are having trouble with movement, denture adhesives are available at any drug store. The adhesive will form a much stronger seal than saliva alone, and will require some trial and error to get the right amount.

Dentures Maintenance and Care

It’s important to properly maintain and care for your dentures.
While most dentures are made of plastic and metal, they can be fragile, so ensure that you do not drop the appliance on any hard surface.

Your dentures should be brushed and rinsed daily. Just like natural teeth, food and plaque can collect on the surfaces of your dentures. Use a soft brush designed specifically for dentures with a denture cleanser at the end of the day. As well, rinsing your mouth thoroughly after eating can help maintain the hygiene of your dentures and mouth.

When not in use, your dentures should be properly stored. It’s important to keep the dentures moist or wet so they do not dry out and lose their shape. Most people leave their dentures soaking in a denture cleansing solution when not in use. Depending on the types of materials used (plastic and/or metal), your dentist can recommend the best method of storing your dentures when not in use.

How Long Will Dentures Last?

Generally, your dentures will last five to seven years with proper maintenance. Due to the natural aging process we all go through, the shape and structure of your jaw and gums may change over time. Your dentures may need to be relined or shaped to adjust to these changes, and will usually need to be replaced entirely within seven years.

At Enhance Dental Centre, our Vancouver dentists ensure that you have a full understanding of the development of your dentures and how to care, maintain and what to expect as a denture wearer. Please feel comfortable contacting us anytime, for a free dental consultation.

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