Dentures - Learning the Basics

Dentures are considered a dental prosthetic tool for those who have lost their permanent teeth. Whether through injury or tooth decay, no one should have to deal with the embarrassment of having a smile with missing teeth. Dentures are an affordable option that is covered by most insurance providers.

Unlike baby teeth, adult teeth are permanent; they do not grow back if they have been removed. Therefore, when something happens to these teeth, it is important to explore the many options for replacement. Dentures are the most popular option because they are so affordable and convenient. On the other hand, other options such as dental implants are much more expensive. Additionally, dental implants require two surgeries. There is also a small chance that the body could reject the implant, causing more inconvenience to the patient. Although dentures are not permanent, they are just as natural looking. Furthermore, dentures can be made to fill-in for the entire mouth, or just a few missing teeth. These dental prosthetics are custom made for each patient, which allows for a more natural look.

There are many options that one can consider when they are being fitted with dentures. They can be made with porcelain, acrylic, plastic, or cast metal. Porcelain is the least expensive and more traditional of these choices. Unfortunately, porcelain is not as practical because it wears down over time and will need to be replaced more frequently than the other denture materials. Porcelain is also very noisy and tends to make a “clacking” sound when the teeth are tapped together. Most recently, plastic has become more popular because advancements in biomaterials have helped create a plastic material that is more wear-resistant than porcelain. Choosing the right material is based on a number of factors. For instance, older patients with a higher risk of bone loss might be better-suited for plastic dentures because materials like porcelain are hard, and can apply unnecessary pressure on the jaw bone. While some materials can last longer than others, the need to replace the dentures is inevitable. Without teeth, the jawbone has a tendency to experience bone loss, which makes it difficult to comfortably fit the dentures over time. Therefore, patients can expect to replace or realign their dentures at least every five years. Some patients will experience symptoms such as gum irritation or loose fitting dentures, which is an indicator that it might be time to visit the dentist for a replacement.