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A removable bridge, more commonly known as a denture, is a removable replacement for missing teeth and adjacent tissues. It is made of acrylic resin, sometimes in combination with various metals.
Types of dentures
Complete dentures replace all the teeth, while a partial denture fills in the spaces created by missing teeth and prevents other teeth from changing position.
Candidates for complete dentures have lost most or all of their teeth. A partial denture is suitable for those who have some natural teeth remaining. A denture improves chewing ability and speech and provides support for facial muscles. It will significantly enhance the facial appearance and smile.
Complete or full dentures are made when your natural teeth are missing. You can have a full denture on your upper or lower jaw or both.
Complete dentures are called "conventional" or "immediate" according to when they are made and when they are inserted into the mouth. Immediate dentures are inserted immediately after the removal of the remaining teeth. To make this possible, the dentist in Coshocton, OH, takes measurements and makes models of the patient's jaws during a preliminary visit.
An advantage of immediate dentures is that the wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bones and gums can shrink over time, especially during the healing period in the first six months after teeth removal. When gums shrink, immediate dentures may require rebasing or relining to fit properly. A conventional denture can then be made once the tissues have healed. Healing may take at least 6-8 weeks.
An overdenture is a removable denture that fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth or implants. The natural teeth must be prepared to provide stability and support for the denture.
Partial dentures are often a solution when several teeth are missing.
Aggressive periodontal disease is characterized by the rapid loss of gum attachment and bone tissue. The disease is essentially the same as chronic periodontitis, but the progression is much faster. Smokers and those with a family history of this disease are at an increased risk of developing aggressive periodontitis.
How are dentures made?
The denture process takes about one month and five appointments: the initial diagnosis is made; an impression and a wax bite are made to determine vertical dimensions and proper jaw position; a "try-in" is placed to ensure proper color, shape, and fit; and the patient's final denture is placed, following any minor adjustments.
Getting used to your denture
Inserting and removing the denture will require some practice. For the first few weeks, a new denture may feel awkward or bulky. However, your mouth will eventually become accustomed to wearing it.
Start by eating soft foods that are cut into small pieces. Chew on both sides of the mouth to keep even pressure on the denture. Avoid sticky or hard foods, including gum. Avoid chewing gum while you adjust to the denture.
Adjustments
See your dentist immediately if your denture no longer fits properly, if it breaks, cracks or chips, or if one of the teeth becomes loose. In many cases, dentists can make necessary adjustments or repairs, often on the same day. Complicated repairs may require that the denture be sent to a special dental laboratory.
Denture adhesives
Denture adhesives can provide additional retention for well-fitting dentures. Denture adhesives are not the solution for old, ill-fitting dentures. A poorly fitting denture, which uses constant irritation over a long period, may contribute to the development of sores. These dentures may need a reline or need to be replaced. If your dentures begin to feel loose or cause pronounced discomfort, consult your dentist immediately.
