The smile is one of a person’s greatest assets — it lights up a room, gives you confidence, and shows the world that you’re ready to stand out from the crowd. But when age or disease has taken its toll on natural teeth, dentures can be an invaluable tool for regaining that beautiful smile. With modern advancements allowing for comfortable wear and natural-looking results, having a set of dentures doesn’t have to take away from your self-confidence; instead, it can help restore it.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss how getting quality dentures helps achieve a beautiful smile.
What Are Denture Teeth Made of?
Denture teeth are typically made of acrylic or porcelain. Acrylic teeth are made of a plastic material and are less expensive than porcelain teeth. They are less durable and can become discolored over time. Porcelain teeth, on the other hand, are more durable and have a more natural appearance. They are also more resistant to staining and discoloration.
Some denture teeth are made of a combination of acrylic and porcelain, which can provide a balance of durability and natural appearance. Some advanced materials such as Zirconia, Valplast, and chrome cobalt are also used for making denture teeth. Your dentist can help you choose the best type of denture teeth for your needs and budget.
Common Isues when Smiling with Dentures
If you’re just new to wearing dentures, you will likely experience a lot of challenges as you get accustomed to the new feeling. However, even long-time users of dentures commonly experience several problems when smiling with dentures, including:
- Ill-fitting Dentures
One of the most common issues when smiling with dentures is ill-fitting dentures. Dentures that do not fit properly can cause discomfort and can also affect the appearance of your smile. Dentures that are too loose can slip and move around in your mouth, while dentures that are too tight can cause sore spots and irritations. - Slippage
Dentures that slip or move around in your mouth can cause embarrassment and self-consciousness, especially when smiling or talking. It can also affect speech and make it difficult to eat certain foods. This occurs when the dentures are not fitting properly or when the denture wearer has lost some weight or muscle mass in their jaw. - Gum Irritation
Dentures that do not fit properly can cause irritation to the gums, which can be painful and unsightly. This is caused by the dentures rubbing against the gums, which can cause redness, inflammation, and even bleeding. - Staining
Dentures that are not cleaned properly or that are made of a porous material can become stained over time. This can affect the appearance of your smile and make you self-conscious about your dentures. - Discoloration
Dentures that are made of acrylic can become discolored over time. This can happen due to smoking, eating certain foods, or exposure to certain chemicals. Porcelain teeth are more resistant to discoloration. - Wear and Damage
Dentures that are not cared for properly or that are not replaced when they become worn or damaged can affect the appearance of your smile. Dentures that are chipped, cracked, or broken can make it difficult to eat and speak and can also affect the overall appearance of your smile.
How to Smile Beautifully with Dentures
Dentures allow you to feel more confident about yourself. Unfortunately, some people have a hard time smiling when wearing their dentures. Here are some ways to help you smile confidently:
Choose the Right Dentures
The first step in achieving a beautiful smile with dentures is to choose the right type of dentures for your needs. Dentures are mainly divided into two: full dentures and partial dentures. Full dentures are used when all of the natural teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Your dentist can help you determine which type of dentures is best for you.
Ensure Proper Fit
Once you have chosen the right type of dentures, it is important to ensure that they fit properly. A proper fit will ensure that the dentures do not slip or move around in your mouth, which can be uncomfortable and can also affect the appearance of your smile. Your dentist will be able to make any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit.
Care for Your Dentures
Proper care is essential to maintain the appearance and longevity of your dentures. This includes cleaning them daily with mild soap and warm water, and avoiding hard or abrasive materials that can scratch or damage the dentures. You should also avoid chewing hard foods or biting your nails to prevent damaging your dentures.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
It’s crucial to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and adjustments. Dentures can become loose over time, so regular visits will ensure they continue to fit properly and function correctly. Your dentist will also be able to check for any signs of wear or damage and make any necessary repairs or replacements.
What Types of Dentures Are the Best?
There are several types of dentures, each with its own pros and cons. The best type of dentures for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
- Conventional: These are the traditional type of dentures, made to be worn after all the natural teeth have been removed and the gums have healed. They are made of acrylic and rest on the gums, held in place by natural suction and sometimes with denture adhesive.
- Immediate: These are made in advance and are inserted immediately after the natural teeth are removed. They provide the advantage of not having to go without teeth during the healing period but may require more adjustments as the gums heal and shrink.
- Partial: These are used when some natural teeth remain. They are made of a combination of acrylic and metal and are designed to fit around the remaining natural teeth. They are secured with clasps that attach to the natural teeth.
- Overdentures: These are dentures that are designed to fit over existing natural teeth or dental implants. They provide a secure fit and can help to preserve the remaining natural teeth.
- Hybrid: They are a combination of traditional dentures and dental implants. They are made to fit over a small number of dental implants and provide a secure fit, stability, and support.
- Customized: Customized dentures are made to fit the unique shape of your mouth and are generally more expensive than standard dentures. They are made of high-quality materials and are designed to provide a comfortable fit and a natural-looking smile.
How to Care for Dentures Properly
Caring for your dentures properly is essential to maintain their appearance and longevity. Here are some tips on how to care for your dentures:
- Clean your dentures daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild, non-abrasive soap to clean your dentures. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and can scratch the surface of the dentures. Rinse your dentures thoroughly with warm water after cleaning them.
- Soak your dentures overnight: Soaking your dentures overnight in a denture cleaner or warm water can help to remove any stains or plaque buildup. Ensure to rinse your dentures thoroughly before wearing them in the morning.
- Handle dentures with care: Dentures are fragile and can be easily damaged. Handle them with care when cleaning or inserting them in your mouth. Avoid bending or twisting the dentures, and avoid dropping them.
- Regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and adjustments. Dentures can become loose over time, so regular visits will ensure that they continue to fit properly and function correctly. Your dentist will also be able to check for any signs of wear or damage and make any necessary repairs or replacements.
- Avoid certain foods and habits: Avoid eating hard or sticky foods that can bend or break your dentures. Also, avoid biting your nails or chewing on non-food items like pens or pencils. These habits can damage your dentures.
- Proper storage: When not in use, store your dentures in a clean, dry place. Keep them in a denture container or a secured plastic bag to prevent them from drying out or becoming damaged.
Conclusion
Dentures can help to restore the function and appearance of your smile, but it’s important to take proper care of them, so they last. With the right denture care routine and regular check-ups with your dentist, you can keep your dentures in great condition and maintain a healthy smile.
Parkwood Dental is here to help with your concerns about dentures. Whether you’re interested in getting one or having problems with your new teeth, our experts have the necessary skills and equipment to help you smile confidently with dentures. Schedule your appointment today to know more!