In addition to shaking one’s confidence, missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift in position over time and affect one’s ability to chew properly. If you are considering getting dentures to fill in a missing tooth or teeth, read on to find out what it is all about.
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What are dentures?
Basically, a denture is a prosthetic device that one can wear to fill in any gaps left behind by missing teeth. Unlike long-term dental implants that require surgery, dentures in Singapore are an affordable and non-invasive option for the replacement of missing teeth. They are also detachable and easy to put on and take out on a daily basis. Dentures are typically made of medical-grade cobalt chromium, acrylic resin, porcelain or a combination of each. However, most dental clinics are now also introducing a new biocompatible material that is able to continuously change its shape to adapt to the constant movement in your mouth.
Procedure for making dentures
The making of your dentures will require several stages and takes up to 5 dental visits. First, we will measure your bite and take a dental impression of your teeth. Once we have the exact imprint of your teeth and gum tissues, we will use this 3D mould to develop intermediary wax dentures in a dental laboratory. Next, we will call you in for your first fitting to ensure that everything sits comfortably in place. Once you are happy with the fit and feel, we can then proceed to make the actual set of dentures according to the mould. If there are any changes during the fitting, we will incorporate them into the final dentures as well. For your last visit, we will check to ensure that your dentures fit well and will make any relevant adjustments wherever necessary.
The benefits of wearing dentures
Besides improving the overall appearance of your teeth, this prosthetic & beauty device help to prevent any long term issues that can arise from having missing teeth such as a shift in the positioning of your other teeth. Additionally, dentures will also help to restore the eloquence of your speech as well as your ability to chew and bite your food properly.
Types of dentures
Full dentures
Conventional full dentures are suitable for those who are completely missing their upper or lower set of teeth. Whether it is due to gum disease or tooth decay, missing teeth can really take a toll on one’s self esteem and confidence. Hence, a full set of dentures can go a long way in restoring the confidence as well as shape and structure to one’s facial features. However, patients are not able to wear a full set of dentures immediately after teeth extraction. This is because the gums are actually still in recovery and it will take several months for the gums to heal completely. While waiting, temporary dentures can help patients to go about their day confidently for the time being.
Partial dentures
Next, partial dentures involve attaching prosthetic teeth to a plastic base that closely resembles the gums in colour and texture. Partial dentures are suitable for those who only have a few missing teeth and still have most of their natural teeth intact. Plus, partial dentures have a clasp that makes it easy for daily removal and cleaning.
Flexible dentures
With technology constantly evolving, we now have flexible dentures that use a biocompatible material to provide a more comfortable fit. Flexible dentures do not involve the use of a metal frame and are able to blend in seamlessly with the rest of your teeth. Although they feel light and thin, they are incredibly sturdy and durable. They are also hypoallergenic and more flexible than your conventional acrylic and metal dentures. Because of their lightweight and natural-looking nylon material, they are almost virtually undetectable.
Immediate dentures
Like its name suggests, patients are able to use these dentures immediately after undergoing a dental extraction. Usually, immediate dentures are made in advance so that patients can use them right after a tooth extraction procedure.
Removable implant-retained dentures
Next, these dentures incorporate the use of four or more implants to secure the dentures in place. As dentures that sit on the gums tend to move around while we talk and eat, implant-retained dentures help to keep them in place with titanium screws. These screws go into the jawbone and serve as pillars to support the placement of your dentures. Unlike the other dentures, this one requires surgery and it is important to ensure that all implants are parallel to one another to minimize any imbalances and discomfort.
Tips to care for your dentures
As food tends to get into the nooks and crannies of your dentures, meticulous cleaning procedures are imperative to keep bacteria buildup at bay. Here are some tips to help you uphold the hygiene and longevity of your dentures:
- Always handle your dentures delicately. Do not dunk them in hot water as this can warp the shape of your dentures.
- Remove your dentures gently after each meal and brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush, a mild soap and water. Instead of regular toothpaste, it is best to use mild soaps or dental cleaners as toothpaste is too abrasive for your delicate dentures. Cleaning your dentures after each meal helps to eliminate plaque and prevent stains from forming.
- Soak your dentures in denture solution or water overnight to keep them from drying out and getting out of shape. However, metal dentures are best soaked in water since they have the tendency to tarnish in some solutions.
- As our gums tend to recede naturally as we age, it is important to get a dental checkup regularly to assess your gum health and to check the fitting of your dentures. This is because poorly-fitted dentures can irritate the gum tissues and lead to inflammation and the risk of oral cancer.
- Avoid dropping your dentures or bending them in an attempt to adjust them on your own. If they start to feel uncomfortable, we can help you to make the necessary adjustments.
Do I have to replace them after some time?
On average, a set of dentures can last anywhere between 3 to 5 years. As dentures are quite delicate and wear out easily from daily use, you should replace them as and when they no longer fit comfortably in your mouth. Also, our gum tissues and teeth are constantly changing as we age. Hence, it is important to get regular checkups to assess your gum health and the positioning of your dentures. Should you require new dentures, we will go through the same process of making them as mentioned above. Besides, new dentures will do a better job at supporting your gums, teeth and facial features than an old one that is out of shape.
Common concerns with dentures
Dentures are tailor-made to suit your specific teeth, gums and bone structure. However, it does take some getting used to as it may feel strange and foreign initially. Besides the weird sensations of chewing and talking with dentures for the first time, dentures may also cause gum irritations and excess salivation in the first few days of use. After taking time to adjust to it, it will eventually become a seamless part of your everyday routine. Additionally, another common concern with dentures is their tendency to trap food and cause bad breath. To counteract this issue, it is essential to clean and rinse your dentures under running water after every meal. Aside from that, patients who wear dentures may also find it difficult to bite into hard foods like apples and nuts as it would cause their dentures to dislodge and hurt their gums. Hence, a solution would be to avoid biting into hard foods and to opt for softer textures instead. You can also break your food down into smaller more manageable pieces to avoid having to chew excessively.
How much do dentures cost?
The cost of a full set of dentures can fall anywhere between $580 and $750. On the other hand, partial dentures can cost between $245 and $590.
Book a consultation with us
Here at Dental Essence, we offer dentures as well as a variety of other teeth replacement procedures such as dental implants. During a consultation, we will help you to explore your options to ensure that your dental journey is a seamless and comfortable one.