Fill in the Gaps with Some Denture Facts
Featured in For the Media - News Releases, November 2008

Posted on Tuesday, November 25, 2008

CHICAGO (November 25, 2008) - While most people desire to keep and maintain a full set of healthy teeth, the reality is that many people at some point may lose one and in some cases all of their teeth. Trauma to the mouth, gum disease, tooth decay and systemic diseases are just a few circumstances that can lead to tooth loss. Yet, there are alternatives to restoring a smile when tooth loss occurs: dentures.

A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and adjoining tissues and can come in the form of a complete or partial denture. Candidates for complete dentures have lost all of their teeth while partial dentures are best suited for those who have some natural teeth remaining.

A denture improves chewing ability and speech, and provides support for facial muscles, according to the June 2008 issue of AGD Impact, the monthly newsmagazine of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). A denture can also greatly enhance a patient’s facial appearance and smile.

“There are some precautions that should be taken when wearing a denture such as removing the denture for at least eight hours during the day or night,” says AGD spokesperson, Paul Bussman, DMD, FAGD. “This allows your gum tissue to rest, and permits for normal stimulation and cleansing of the mouth by the tongue and saliva.”

In addition, to ensure better long-term health of the gums and denture, denture wearers should make sure they remove and brush their denture daily with a denture cleanser, but remove a partial denture before brushing their natural teeth. Also, to maintain the shape of the denture, never use boiling water to sterilize it.

Dr. Bussman reminds patients that, “If you are considering a denture, it’s important to exercise open communication with your general dentist to learn about all of the options available to you.”

What’s the process for getting a denture?

• Five or more appointments are needed over a month period to complete the process

• Initial diagnosis, impression and wax bite determine the dimensions and jaw position

• A “try-in,” or temporary denture, assures proper color, shape, and fit

• A final fitting allows for placement of the completed denture and minor adjustments