Dentures Naples

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are natural-looking replacement teeth created by your prosthodontist, and there are three types:

• Full dentures are given to patients when all of the natural teeth have been lost or removed. Conventional full dentures are placed after the gum tissue has healed which can take several months. Immediate full dentures are placed right after the teeth have been removed and may require frequent adjustments during the first couple of months of use.
• Partial dentures are attached to a metal frame that is connected to your natural teeth and are used to fill in where permanent teeth have been lost. Partial dentures are considered a removable alternative to bridges.
• Implant dentures involve anchoring the teeth to the jawbone using a small number of dental implants, giving them a strength and stability that more closely resembles nature.

Are Dentures Right for Me?

Dentures are not for everyone. If you’re interested in learning more about dentures and want to know if they are the right choice for you, please schedule an appointment. Our prosthodontist will be happy to answer any questions you might have and can determine the best course of treatment for your ongoing dental health.

Caring for Your Dentures

Dentures, just like natural teeth, require daily maintenance to stay clean and keep bacteria under control. Here are a few simple guidelines:

• When handling your dentures, stand over a clean, folded towel or a sink full of water. This way, if you accidentally drop your dentures, they are less likely to break.
• Your dentures are not immune from plaque and tartar build-up, so it’s important that you brush your dentures every day.
• To brush your dentures, use a soft-bristled brush and gently clean all surfaces, being careful not to break or bend the plastic.
• In between brushings, it’s important to rinse your dentures after each meal.
• Use a gentle cleanser to clean your dentures. Many toothpastes, household cleaners, and mouthwashes can be too hard on your dentures, so it is recommended that you use a mild hand or dish soap. Be sure to check for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval to choose products that are safe for your dentures or ask your dentist about which products may be best.
• When you are not wearing your dentures, they need to be kept moist. Dentures that are not kept in a denture cleaning solution or water can dry out, lose their shape, or even crack and break. Certain styles of dentures require certain soaking solutions, so be sure to ask your dentist which one is best for you.
• Even if you have a full set of dentures, it’s important to keep your gums and tongue clean. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean your gums and tongue every day.

If by chance your dentures do break, please contact our practice and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Broken dentures that don’t fit properly can irritate your gums and mouth.