Candidates For Dentures
Could you be a candidate for dentures? Around 25% of adults over 65 have lost all their teeth, and dentures are a popular and effective solution. They’re so realistic that you might have spoken to someone wearing them without even knowing.
To be a good candidate for dentures, you should:
- Want to replace multiple or all of your teeth
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products
- Have a healthy jawbone (we can help with this!)
- Not experience dry mouth
- Be committed to proper denture care at home
- Continue visiting the dentist for regular check-ups, just like with natural teeth
How do I take care of my dentures?
Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining your dentures and oral health. During visits, we’ll assess the fit of your dentures and examine your gums, tongue, jaw, and mouth.
At-home denture care:
- Remove dentures overnight to let your mouth rest
- Soak dentures in warm water or denture cleanser
- Keep dentures in water when not in use to prevent drying
- Avoid soaking dentures with metal clasps in anything other than warm water
- Never soak dentures in hot water
- Clean and massage your gums while dentures are removed
- If brushing your gums is painful, use warm water or a damp cloth
- Brush natural teeth as usual if you have partial dentures
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, other solutions exist for missing teeth. Dental bridges can fill gaps caused by one to three missing teeth, while dental implants are a viable option for any number of missing teeth. Although implants require a higher initial investment and specific health criteria, they offer a permanent, durable solution.
With proper care and maintenance, dentures typically last between 5 and 10 years. However, due to changes in your mouth over time, you may need a new set of dentures. Regular wear and tear can also impact their lifespan.
While you can sleep with dentures in, it’s not recommended. It’s best to remove them at night to soak, which allows you to clean your mouth, gums, and any remaining natural teeth thoroughly. It also gives your gums and jaw a chance to rest.
Bottom dentures should rest comfortably above your gums and stay in place, while top dentures should fit snugly and create a suction effect. Implant-supported dentures should snap securely into position. Partial dentures should align with natural teeth and show minimal movement. If you have concerns about the fit, schedule an appointment for an assessment and adjustments.
Certain foods can be challenging with dentures. Avoid hard, sticky foods like caramel, carrot sticks, and tough meats, as well as foods with small particles such as popcorn or seeded crackers, which may cause irritation. Over time, most people adjust and can enjoy most foods without issues.
It’s best to avoid regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and cause scratches. Use a denture-specific cleanser or mild dish soap for thorough cleaning without damaging your dentures.
Even if you have dentures, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly, at least every six months. This allows your dentist to check the fit and condition of your dentures and monitor the health of your gums, tongue, and overall oral health.
