Frequently Asked Questions
Please click on a topic below for questions on that area:
Please click on a question below for the answer:
What will dentures feel
like?
Will dentures make me
look different?
Will I be able to eat
with my dentures?
Will dentures change how
I speak?
Are all dentures alike?
What are conventional
vs. immediate dentures?
What is an overdenture?
How long do dentures last?
Can I replace the lower
or upper denture only?
Will a reline make my dentures as good
as new?
Should relined dentures
still fit loosely?
Will my dentures need
to be replaced?
If replaced, will I have
an adjustment period?
Are all dentures the same regardless
of price?
Q: What will dentures feel like?
A: New dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place. It is not unusual to experience minor irritation or soreness. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases. As your mouth becomes accustomed to the dentures, these problems should diminish. One or more follow-up appointments are generally needed after a denture is inserted. If any problem persists, particularly irritation or soreness, be sure to call.
Q: Will dentures make me look different?
A: Dentures can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth so that little change in appearance will be noticeable. Dentures may even improve the look of your smile and help fill out the appearance of your face and profile. Regular professional examinations and following your dentist's instructions on home care are essential steps in insuring a natural appearance.
Q: Will I be able to eat with my dentures?
A: While not all denture wearers can eat everything they would like, many have very few restrictions in their diet. Eating will take a little practice. Stay with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent the dentures from tipping. As you become accustomed to chewing, add other foods until you return to your normal diet. Continue to chew food using both aides of your mouth at the same time. Be cautious with hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones or shells. If you develop persistent eating or speech problems, have your dentist check the fit of your dentures.
Q: Will dentures change how I speak?
A: Pronouncing certain words may require practice. Reading out loud and repeating troublesome words will help. If your dentures "click" while you're talking, speak more slowly. You may find that your dentures may occasionally slip while you laugh, cough or smile. Reposition your dentures by biting down and swallowing.
A: Since every person - and therefore every mouth - is different, it is obvious that no two dentures can be alike. A quality denture is handcrafted, meaning that even two dentures made for the same person will not be exactly alike. When a denture is processed, the custom-designed mold for the specific patient is broken in order to remove the new denture and the finishing work is done by hand. Thus, it is impossible to create exactly the same denture more than once. There is also a difference in techniques of denture construction and quality of materials available today. You should discuss this with your dentist as these variables can affect the quality and cost of the finished product.
Q: What are conventional dentures vs. immediate dentures?
A: Complete dentures are called "conventional" or "immediate" according to when they are made and when they are inserted into the mouth. Conventional dentures are made and inserted after the remaining teeth are removed and the tissues have healed. Healing may take several months. Immediate dentures are inserted immediately after the removal of all teeth. To make this possible, the dentist takes measurements models of the patient's jaws during a preliminary visit. An advantage of immediate dentures is that the wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bones and gums can shrink over time, especially during the period of healing in the first six months after the removal of teeth. When gums shrink, immediate dentures may require rebasing or relining to fit properly.
A: An overdenture is one that fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth that have been prepared by the dentist. The prepared teeth provide stability and support for the denture. We can determine if an overdenture would be suitable for you when we examine your mouth and remaining teeth.
A: While it is true that dentures are durable, they are not any more permanent than eyeglasses. Dropping them can break a tooth or denture base. No manufacturer of dentures today "guarantees" their products to be unbreakable. Given the right set of circumstances any denture can be broken. Even with conscientious care denture teeth can lose their natural appearance and chewing ability due to chewing, brushing, and age. The way you care for dentures can also alter their fit. Dentures can warp if placed in hot water. If they become dried out they may change shape. With proper periodic care your dentures should remain serviceable for five to seven years.
Q: Can I replace the lower denture or upper denture only?
A: It is always recommended that upper and lower dentures be made as a set for the best results. It is not always possible to make only half a set of dentures. Problems with the lower denture are sometimes due to the design of the upper. Because of the size and structure of the upper mouth, movement and dislodgement of the lower denture can occur if there are certain flaws existing in the upper denture. This should be discussed with your dentist after a thorough oral examination with your current dentures in place.
Q: Will a reline make my dentures as good as new?
A: If your denture teeth are very worn or if the bite relationship of your dentures is not correct, your may experience looseness and/or irritation of your mouth. Relining the denture will not correct these problems. They all relate to the way in which the upper and lower teeth come together. A reline has nothing to do with how the teeth come together. It only corrects fit against the tissues of your mouth. A reline should only be done after a thorough examination to determine that there are not other underlying problems with the dentures.
Q: Should relined dentures still fit loosely?
A: There are many reasons dentures can seem loose. For example, if the teeth don't come together in a balanced bite, you will end up with wobbly dentures while chewing on your food. If the denture is too long in some areas, the mouth muscles will actually move it about while eating or talking. If the denture is too short, the vital areas of the mouth won't get covered, which means the denture won't stay in place. Loose dentures could also be the result of health issues. Ask yourself these questions: "Am I on medication, or have I recently changed medication?"; "Have I suddenly gained or lost weight?; Can my health be improved?"; and "Am I under stress?". Even the amount of bone structure in your mouth and the amount of saliva you produce can be contributing factors.
Q: Will my dentures need to be replaced?
A: Over time, dentures will need to be relined, remade, or rebased due to normal wear. To make a rebased denture, the dentist uses the existing denture teeth and makes a new denture base. Dentures may need to be replaced because a mouth naturally changes with age. Bone and gum ridges can recede or shrink, causing jaws to align differently. Shrinking ridges can cause dentures to fit less securely. Loose dentures can cause health problems including sores and infections. A loose denture also makes chewing more difficult and may change your facial features. It's important to replace worn or poorly-fitting dentures before they cause problems.
Q: If replaced, will I have an adjustment period?
A: The first time is always the hardest. You're a pro now. You've learned the basics about eating, speaking, and wearing a denture. There will be some adjustment, but it will probably be shorter and easier than the first time. And, it is important! Prolonged use of ill-fitting dentures can irritate the gums, tongue, and cheek, and even cause the ridges of your mouth to shrink to the point where it will almost be impossible to fit you with normal dentures. Your ability to chew may decrease, and your face may acquire deep aging lines and wrinkles. When you look at the big picture, the temporary adjustment period isn't so bad.
Q: Are all dentures the same regardless of price?
A: Only your dentist is qualified to diagnose your oral health condition and fit and adjust your dentures. Before prescribing a denture, the dentist reviews your history, performs a thorough examination, and carefully measures and prepares your mouth for dentures. Our dentists work closely with our in house lab at Tacoma Denture Clinic, where trained technicians make your dentures to match your dentist's specifications. Mail-order specials for self-fitting dentures may result in poor fit, and can cause serious oral health problems. Our dentists all have at least 20 years experience fabricating dentures and partial dentures.
Please click on a question below for the answer:
How long should I wear my dentures?
Should a denture be worn at night?
Should I use a denture adhesive?
What's the best way to clean and care for dentures?
Can I make minor denture adjustments or repairs?
How often should I schedule dental appointments?
Once I have dentures, do I need to see a dentist?
Are dentures affected by various medications?
Should I do anything special to care for my mouth?
Is regular dental care too expensive?
Q: How long should I wear my dentures?
A: We will provide instructions about how long dentures should be kept in place. During the first few days, you may be advised to wear them most of the time, including while you sleep. After the initial adjustment period, you may be instructed to remove the dentures before going to bed. This allows gum tissue to rest and promotes oral health. Generally, it is not desirable that the tissue be constantly covered by denture material.
Q: Should a denture be worn at night?
A: Under normal circumstances, it is considered best to remove complete dentures at night. Research has shown that removing the denture for at least eight hours during the day or night allows gum tissue to rest and allows normal stimulation and cleansing by the tongue and saliva. This promotes better long-term health of gums.
Q: Should I use a denture adhesive?
A: Dentures are made to fit precisely and usually do not require use of an adhesive for comfort. In an emergency, denture adhesives can be used to keep the dentures stable until you see the dentist, but prolonged use can mask infections and cause bone loss in the jaw. Likewise, a poorly-fitting denture, which causes constant irritation over a long period, may contribute to the development of sores. If your dentures begin to feel loose or cause pronounced discomfort, see your dentist immediately.
Q: What's the best way to clean and care for dentures?
A: Use commercially available powders, tablets or toothpastes to clean your dentures, and a good quality denture brush. Also, hold your dentures over a water-filled sink over a folded towel while cleaning them; should you drop your dentures, they'll be less likely to break. After cleaning, rinse your dentures thoroughly in clear water. For metal partial dentures, be sure to read the instructions carefully on any cleaner that you apply. For dentures with soft liners, be sure not to exceed 20 minutes of soaking time, for smokers, a stronger professional strength cleaner may be available from your dentist. For those with plaque and tartar build-up on their dentures, see your dentist for an ultrasonic cleaning. What not to do: avoid using boiling water, abrasive cleaners, or bleach, as these will damage your dentures. For example, bleach has the ability to oxidize metal partials, turning them black. Bleach can also be absorbed into dentures, which may irritate your mouth.
Q: Can I make minor denture adjustments or repairs?
A: You can seriously damage your dentures and harm your health by trying to adjust or repair your dentures. A denture that is not made to fit properly can cause irritation and sores. If your dentures break, crack, chip, or if one of the teeth becomes loose be sure to call. We can often make the necessary adjustments or repairs on the same day. A person who lacks the proper training will not be able to reconstruct the denture. This can cause greater damage to the denture and may cause problems in your mouth. Glue sold over-the-counter often contains harmful chemicals and should not be used on dentures.
Q: How often should I schedule dental appointments?
A: We will advise you about how often to visit. Regular dental check-ups are important. We like to check your mouth on a regular basis to see if your dentures continue to fit properly. We also examine your mouth for signs of oral disease, including cancer. With regular professional care, a positive attitude and persistence, you can become one of the millions of people who wear their dentures with a smile.
Q: Once I have dentures, do I need to see a dentist anymore?
A: When you get new glasses, you should expect to go for periodic checks-ups, with the understanding that you may need a new pair every few years. You should see your dentist regularly for an oral examination, because your mouth is continually changing. The tissue of your mouth can be affected by many variables. Your general health, weight, nutrition, blood pressure, strength of your bite, and any medication you are taking can influence the fit and comfort of your dentures. Mouth tissue can reveal signs of disease, such as diabetes, that first manifest themselves in the mouth. Besides checking your dentures, the dentist will check your mouth for signs of oral cancer, and examine your gum ridges, tongue and jaw joints. Of course, your dentures need attention, too. Important indicators of their condition are: looseness caused by tissue changes; bad odor caused by absorption of fluid and bacteria; color change due to age or a reaction to mouth fluids; stains and calculus deposits resulting from mouth fluids.
Q: Are dentures affected by various medications?
A: Over-the-counter (non-prescription) or prescription drugs can affect denture fit and wearability. For example, certain medications can reduce the supply the supply of saliva in your mouth, making it difficult to swallow or chew. So let your dentist know of any medications you may be taking regularly or even occasionally.
Q: Should I do anything special to care for my mouth?
A: Plaque removal and stimulated circulation are vital for healthy gums. We recommend that you get into the habit of removing your dentures and brushing your gums, tongue and palate with a very soft toothbrush once or twice a day. This contributes to the health of the tissue and the likelihood of success with your dentures. Denture wearers should not chew gum because this action places excessive strain on the temporomandibular (jaw) joint, which can lead to future problems. When eating, be careful not to bite off hard foods with your front teeth. This will result in irritation of the ridges and accelerate bone loss. Quite possibly one long term effect maybe that future dentures are harder to fit.
Q: Is regular dental care too expensive?
A: We understand that many patients are on a fixed income. However, before deciding that oral examinations and denture care is too costly, discuss the situation with your dentist. Be frank. Ask about charges for denture adjustments, repairs and possible replacement. Keep in mind that if you are in your 60's, you could have 20 more years of talking, eating and smiling. You oral health is a vital part of your total health.
Please click on a question below for the answer:
Why does my dentist recommend
a partial denture?
How do you wear a removable
partial denture?
How long will it take
to get used to wearing a partial denture?
How long should I wear
the partial denture?
Will it be difficult to
eat with a partial denture?
How do I take care of my partial denture?
Can I make minor adjustments/repairs
to my partial denture?
Must I do anything special
to take care of my mouth?
Q: Why does my dentist recommend a partial denture?
A: If you have only some teeth missing or needing to be replaced, a partial denture can fill the empty spaces in your mouth and keep your other teeth from moving in strange directions, Not only would your smile have a whole new look - which you weren't intending to get - but you could also have problems chewing or speaking. A precisely-fitting partial results in proper chewing while maintaining general oral health. If the tooth space does not get "filled", one or more of the remaining teeth may lift (extrude), exposing part of the sensitive tooth structure to bacteria and debris inside the mouth. This could lead to tooth decay and eventual, permanent loss. A partial denture also works well for those who have a full upper denture and a few teeth missing on the lower. The partial helps to balance your occlusion, while allowing you to chew and speak properly. Overall, the partial will contribute to the success of your upper denture. So be sure you get those missing teeth replaced. You'll prevent your jaw from moving out of position thus preventing a lot of unnecessary problems.
Q: How do you wear a removable partial denture?
A: Removable partial dentures usually consist of replacement teeth attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases, which are connected by a metal framework. Removable partial dentures attach to your natural teeth with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments. Precision attachments are generally more esthetic than metal clasps and they are nearly invisible. Crowns on your natural teeth may improve the fit of a removable partial denture and they are usually required with attachments. Partials with precision attachments generally cost more than those with metal clasps. Consult with your dentist to find out which type is right for you.
Q: How long will it take to get used to wearing a partial denture?
A: For the first few weeks, your new partial denture may feel awkward or bulky. However, your mouth will eventually become accustomed to wearing it. Inserting and removing the denture will require some practice. Follow all instructions given by your dentist. Your denture should fit into place with relative ease. Never force the partial denture into position by biting down. This could bend or break the clasps.
Q: How long should I wear the partial denture?
A: We will give you specific instructions about how long the partial denture should be worn and when it should be removed. Initially, you may be asked to wear your partial denture all the time. Although this may be temporarily uncomfortable, it is the quickest way to identify those denture parts that may need adjustment. If the denture puts too much pressure on a particular area, that spot will become sore. Your dentist will adjust the denture to fit more comfortably. After making adjustments, your dentist will probably recommend that your take the denture out of your mouth before going to bed and replace it in the morning.
Q: Will it be difficult to eat with a partial denture?
A: Replacing missing teeth should make eating a more pleasant experience. Start out by eating soft foods that are cut into small pieces. Chew on both sides of the mouth to keep even pressure on the denture. Avoid foods that are extremely sticky or hard. You may want to avoid chewing gum while you adjust to the denture.
Q: How do I take care of my partial denture?
A: Handling a partial denture requires care. It's a good idea to stand over a folded towel or a sink of water Just in case you accidentally drop the denture. Brush the denture each day to remove food deposits and plaque. Brushing your denture helps prevent the appliance from becoming stained. It's best to use a brush that is designed for cleaning dentures. A denture brush has bristles that are arranged to fit the shape of the denture. A regular, soft-bristled toothbrush is also acceptable. Avoid using a brush with hard bristles, which can damage the denture. We recommend any denture cleaner with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance. Some people use hand soap or mild dishwashing liquid to clean their dentures with, both are acceptable. Other types of household cleaners and many toothpastes are too abrasive and should not be used for cleaning dentures. Clean your dentures by thoroughly rinsing off loose food particles. Moisten the brush end apply the denture cleaner. Brush all denture surfaces gently to avoid damaging the plastic or bending the attachments. A denture could lose its proper shape if it is not kept moist. At night, the denture should be placed in soaking solution or water. However, if the appliance has metal attachments, they could be tarnished if placed in soaking solution. Your dentist can recommend the proper method for keeping your dentures in good shape. Over time, adjusting the partial denture may be necessary. As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the fit of the denture. Your bone and gum ridges can recede or shrink resulting in a loose-fitting denture. Your dentist should adjust partial dentures that do not fit properly. Loose partial dentures can cause various problems, including sores or infections. See your dentist promptly if your denture becomes loose.
Q: Can I make minor adjustments/repairs to my partial denture?
A: You can do serious harm to your partial denture and to your health by trying to adjust or repair your denture. A denture that is not made to fit precisely by a dentist can cause irritation and sores. Using a do-it-yourself kit can damage the appliance beyond repair. Glues sold over-the-counter often contain harmful chemicals and should not be used on a denture. If your denture no longer fits properly, if it breaks cracks or chips, or if one of the teeth becomes loose, see your dentist immediately. In many cases, dentists can make necessary adjustments or repairs, often on the same day. Complicated repairs may require that the denture be sent to a special dental laboratory.
Q: Must I do anything special to take care of my mouth?
A: Brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth daily help prevent tooth decay and gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Pay special attention to cleaning teeth that fit under the denture's metal clasps. Plaque that becomes trapped under the clasps will increase the risk of tooth decay. We will demonstrate how to properly brush and clean between teeth. Selecting a balanced diet for proper nutrition is also important.
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