When people think of dentures, they often picture someone over the age of 65. However, many adults in the United States of varying ages are missing one or more teeth, or have teeth that need to be replaced.
While dental implants have become very popular in recent years, some people may not be suitable candidates to receive implants. Surgery is required, a person needs healthy gums and jawbones to support the implants, and there are some medical conditions and medications that might keep a person from getting implants.
Partial, or even full dentures can be an easy and less expensive method to replace missing teeth. And dentures are preferable to gaps in your smile.
Your dentures may feel bulky or even uncomfortable at first. Until you get used to them, they may slip at times, and your mouth may generate excess saliva. However, if you experience persistent pain or pressure, you should contact your dentist about having them adjusted.
Learning to eat while wearing your dentures may take some practice. Until you are used to biting and chewing while wearing them, you may have to cut your food into small pieces, or cut it into long strips and chew on both sides of your mouth. You may find that during your adjustment period you have difficulty pronouncing certain words. You may have to practice saying those words, or speak them more slowly until you are accustomed to your dentures.
Your dentures will need to be cleaned every night to remove the food debris and bacteria that have accumulated on them during the day. Gently scrub them with a soft-bristled toothbrush using hand or dish soap, or a toothpaste formulated for dentures. When you go to bed, place them in a soaking solution to keep them moist. That way, they will retain their shape.
If you are considering dentures to replace missing or damaged teeth, our dentist, Dr. Scott Ferguson will be happy to see you for an exam, and to discuss your replacement options. If you live in the Kimball, Michigan area and would like to make an appointment at Scott J. Ferguson, DDS, call 810-985-3301 today to make an appointment.