We spend all our efforts to maintain and save your teeth, but sometimes, your teeth have had enough and it’s time to transition into a denture. It’s important to know that dentures are not a true replacement of teeth but certainly a better alternative than not having teeth. Here are some things to know about dentures and denture care.
How long do dentures last?
As a general rule, new dentures should be made every 5-10 years. Your gums and the bone that your denture sits on, are always changing. The most rapid change occurs within the first six months of a tooth extraction. Over the years the bone in your mouth will continue to shrink, at a slower rate, and eventually your denture won’t fit well. Ill-fitting dentures will cause areas of soreness and sometimes excessive tissue growth which can be very uncomfortable.
When do you know when it’s time to replace?
If your denture begins to feel excessively loose or you have chronic sore spots, your dentist should evaluate your denture. They may determine if a simple reline or rebase is indicated or if a new denture is necessary.
How do I clean my dentures?
Dentures should be rinsed thoroughly with warm water after eating. A moist denture brush with soft bristles should be used to clean any food debris using hand soap. A brush with hard bristles will create scratches in your denture that will harbor bacteria. You can also use denture cleaning tablets sold over the counter, we recommend following the manufactures instructions for use as they vary.
Do I need to see the dentist even though I don’t have teeth?
Yes, according to the American College of Prosthodontics, people who wear dentures are four times more likely to develop oral cancer if the denture is ill-fitting. Yearly dental screenings are a very important part of maintaining your oral and overall health.
Dr. Michael Gibbons is a Prosthodontist, meaning he is a dentist with specialty training in dental reconstruction and replacement of missing teeth. Are you in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area looking for help with your dentures? If you are seeking a denture expert, you can’t go wrong with Dr. Gibbons. Give us a call, we would love to help.
For more details, visit your near dentist Scottsdale AZ.
Click here to contact Dr. Michael Gibbons.
For more resources:
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/dentures/
https://www.prosthodontics.org/about-acp/position-statement-the-frequency-of-denture-replacement/
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