If you are missing multiple teeth along your jaw, you may be a good candidate for a tooth replacement like dentures. Dentures are false teeth that mimic the appearance and function of real teeth. If your teeth have been lost or damaged due to gum disease, tooth decay, or an injury, you’ll want to have them replaced. Dentures are synthetic replacements that can not only replace the missing teeth, but even replace gums and surrounding tissue. Dentures help with speaking, chewing, eating, and preventing your face from sagging. They are also a great way to improve your appearance.

At first, dentures can be a bit cumbersome. They take a little time to get used to. Once you get the hang of your dentures, though, you’ll find that you can eat and speak much easier than you were able to without any form of teeth replacement. It’s important to keep certain challenges in mind when you are making the transition, though. You may bite into a bone or drink something particularly cold or hot. Just be careful with eating and drinking while you get used to your new dentures.

When you first get your dentures, you will likely need to visit your dentist more frequently. They will check to make sure your dentures fit okay, and they can address any difficulties you are having with your dentures. If there are problems with the dentures, your dentist can adjust, repair, or replace them. If they are moving around a lot in your mouth, you may want to consider using adhesive. Whatever the case, your dentist can help to address any problems.

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Because dentures go in and come out of your mouth regularly, you’ll need to properly use, care for, clean, and store your dentures. Avoid foods that may stain your dentures, swell your gums, or lead to bad breath. Clean your dentures daily with denture-care products made specifically for dentures. Take your dentures out every night and keep them in water or a denture-cleaning solution. Do not sleep with your dentures on.

There are different types of dentures. The kind that is best for you depends on your lifestyle, oral health, and particular needs. Below are a few of the most common types of dentures:

Complete (Full) Dentures

Before complete dentures are considered, your dentist will likely recommend other forms of treatment. Complete dentures are generally a last resort. These types of dentures can lead to a variety of issues, which include lisps and speech impediments. They can be difficult for patients to get used to. A material covers the palate and changes the contours within your mouth. Over time, your bone will shrink—but your dentures won’t. The only way to preserve the bone is to have dental implants installed.

For some patients, complete dentures are the only option. These prosthetics are best for patients that have major oral health issues. While they aren’t the ideal option, they can still help with eating and chewing, while also creating a more natural appearance.

Fixed Partial Dentures

Also known as “implant-supported bridges,” fixed partial dentures (FPD) are attached to existing teeth on either side of the gap the patient has between their teeth. The natural teeth are used as abutments (anchors). If a patient doesn’t want to deal with removable dentures, this form of denture may be an option. In order to take advantage of this type of denture, the patient will require teeth to be missing consecutively in a row.

If you want fixed partial dentures, you’ll need to have healthy teeth on either side of the bridge for the dentures to be attached to. While fixed partial dentures are stronger than removable dentures, The abutting teeth are at a higher risk for tooth decay. Because of this, extra care needs to be taken to support these healthy teeth.

Removable Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures (RPD) involve artificial teeth being attached to a plastic, custom-made base that matches the color of the patient’s gums. These are often a good option

for patients that are only missing a few teeth, but also aren’t a good candidate for a dental bridge.

With removable partial dentures, a patient will find they have similar functionality as with their natural teeth. It’s important to take proper care of removable partial dentures, as you would with complete dentures. These dentures are built on a cast metal framework, but they can still be damaged relatively easily.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Implant-retained dentures (also known as “overdentures”) snap into the mouth of a patient and latch on to abutments. They are not permanently attached. These dentures may be a good option for patients that are suffering from bone loss. Overdentures are durable, and they are able to support an entire set of teeth. With implant-retained dentures, patients are able to improve their ability to chew, along with other mouth functions. This form of denture must be removed every night and need regular cleaning and maintenance.

Immediate Dentures

Immediate dentures are often a good option for patients that have had their teeth extracted and need dentures immediately. These dentures are not intended for long-term use and are not custom fit. After around six to eight weeks after an extraction, the patient should have permanent dentures installed.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dentures Indianapolis, Indiana [IN]: We Offer Dentures & Partials

Am I a candidate for dentures?

Those that are suffering from significant teeth loss may be a good candidate for dentures. While many people think of the elderly when they think of dentures, they can be a solution for patients of all ages.

In order for a patient to be a good candidate for dentures, they require healthy gum tissue and a healthy jawbone. If the patient’s jawbone and/or gums aren’t healthy enough to support dentures, they need to be fixed first.

How much do dentures cost?

The cost of dentures depends on a few different factors. One is the type of dentures that are being created and placed. Another thing to consider is insurance coverage. Oftentimes, insurance only covers around half of the cost of dentures. We’ll be happy to speak with you about your coverage and how to best maximize your benefits.

How do I clean my dentures?

In order to keep your dentures clean, you’ll want to remove them and gently brush them with a soft brush. Make sure you take good care not to drop them or allow them to touch any surfaces if possible. Dropping them can lead to breaks and chips. After brushing, dentures should be placed in a denture-cleaning liquid overnight. In the morning, brush them again before reinserting them.