Dentures in South Tampa have been around for so long that you may think you know there’s everything to know. But even dentures have benefited from the emergence of new techniques, technologies, and materials. If you’re looking for a solution for partial or complete tooth loss, you have access to dentures with features and qualities very different from those your parents and grandparents received. Whatever you may think you know about dentures, that information may be out of date. We want to make sure you consider all your options for resolving tooth loss with the most complete and current information in mind.
Speaking of options, dentures are not the only option you have to solve tooth loss. For many people, dental implants provide a permanent and natural solution that is securely bonded to your jaw. Titanium implants and other options are not ideal for every person, though. For some, and for a wide variety of personal, dental, and medical reasons, dentures are the ideal option.
Seven things you need to know about dentures
One survey of nearly 20 countries around the world found that an average of 19% of people wear dentures of one kind or another.
Dentures near you are not all alike. In fact, there are two main categories of dentures: partial and complete. Partial dentures fill the gap left behind by multiple missing teeth in a jaw that still contains some natural teeth. Partial dentures are often held in place by clasping natural teeth on either side of the gap. Complete or full dentures replace all-natural teeth on either the upper or lower jaw, or both. Complete dentures are held in place by suction or adhesives.
Dentures do more than replace your teeth. They also provide support to and structure behind your cheeks and lips. Tooth loss, which removes that support and structure, contributes to a sunken appearance around your mouth which can contribute to an aged appearance in addition to making speaking and eating more difficult than with natural teeth.
Dentures are built and formed by technicians at dental laboratories based on impressions and images taken by your dentist in South Tampa. Whether your dentures are partial or complete, they’ll be custom-built and designed precisely for your gums, jaw, and any existing natural teeth.
Dentures can restore dental function but do not, on their own, ensure oral health. Just because your dentures are not natural teeth, your attention to daily dental care habits is still essential. Failing to keep your dentures and gums clean at all times can contribute to poor oral and even general health. One example of a health issue that can arise from neglecting hygiene is denture stomatitis, a condition caused by the accumulation of candida — an oral yeast or fungus.
Clean your dentures daily by brushing them with a toothbrush or denture brush and using a non-abrasive denture cleaner provided or recommended by your dentist.
Dentures will if maintained properly, last for up to seven years. After their lifespan, they’ll need to be replaced for the main reason that the shape and condition of your gums change over time, which affects the fit of your dentures. That fit can be adjusted from time to time, but eventual replacement is required to ensure the best and most comfortable fit for the fullest possible dental function.
As you consider the full range of solutions for resolving tooth loss and restoring your ability to smile, speak, and eat naturally, don’t forget to give dentures a first and second thought. Recent developments such as titanium dental implants can be transformative but, for many, dentures in South Tampa are an economical, effective, and natural solution worth considering.