Losing teeth can be a big change that really affects your confidence and quality of life. After all, who feels like smiling when they're self-conscious about their teeth? The good news is that you don't have to live with this discomfort forever because there are ways to regain your beautiful smile.
In this blog, we will explore dentures, a widely used method in cosmetic dentistry for replacing missing teeth. We'll also cover what you can expect from Dentures: before and after getting them.
Before Getting Dentures
Before deciding on dentures, it's crucial to understand the drawbacks of missing teeth. However, reviewing Dentures: Before and after galleries with your dentist can reveal significant improvements that dentures can provide. The impacts of missing teeth include the following:
Difficulty eating
Chewing your food effectively depends a lot on your teeth. Missing teeth can make chewing uncomfortable and difficult, affecting how much you enjoy your meals and impacting your overall satisfaction with eating.
Difficulty speaking
Speaking clearly involves more than just your lips and tongue; your teeth also play a crucial role in regulating airflow from your mouth. Therefore, any oral health issues can affect not only the clarity of your speech but also how well others understand you.
Impact on Your Confidence
Feeling self-conscious about your smile can have a significant impact on your mental well-being and self-perception. Without proper treatment, this can lead to reduced smiling and avoidance of social interactions.
Changes in Facial Appearance
The loss of teeth can cause your cheeks to appear sunken due to changes in facial volume. Additionally, without teeth, your lips may sink inward. Delaying denture placement may also lead to jawbone loss, further affecting your facial aesthetics.
Dentures Procedure
Your dentist will begin by assessing the condition of your mouth and gums. They may suggest extractions if needed or delay the procedure to ensure they have a clear picture of your dental health. Measurements will be taken to craft custom dentures tailored to your smile.
Once your dentures are ready, your dentist will fit and adjust them for comfort, security, and proper alignment. They will also provide care instructions and discuss potential side effects as you adjust to wearing them.
After receiving your dentures, expect a period of adjustment. Start by speaking slowly and practicing reading aloud to become accustomed to the fit and feel of your dentures. With time, you'll grow more comfortable and independent in speaking and eating with them.
Different Types of Dentures
Dentures come in various types, each suited to different needs and preferences. Whether you prefer removable or fixed dentures or you require natural-looking options for front teeth, your choice depends on several factors.
Partial Dentures
These removable dentures feature replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base. Metal clasps may be used to secure the denture in place. Partial dentures are ideal when some natural teeth remain and require support for chewing. They are designed to match the color of your existing teeth for a natural look.
Implant-Supported Dentures
These fixed dentures are secured and put in place using dental implants.
Implant-Retained Dentures
Also known as snap-on dentures, these attach to one or two dental implants. They offer the advantage of easy removal for cleaning and are more cost-effective than options requiring more implants.
Full/Complete Dentures
These dentures fully replace all teeth, either in the upper or lower jaw. Dental adhesives are used to keep them secure, allowing for improved smile aesthetics and normal eating functions.
Upper and Lower Dentures
Upper and lower dentures replace all the teeth on both your upper and lower jaws. They have a base made of acrylic or plastic that acts like gums, and the false teeth are attached to this base. It's important to take good care of your oral hygiene, even with dentures, to keep your gums healthy and avoid infections or other problems.
How to take care of Denture: Before and After getting them
Caring for your dentures is crucial to prevent discoloration or damage and ensure their longevity.
- Rinse your dentures after meals to remove food debris.
- Soak them overnight to maintain moisture and shape.
- After removing your dentures, gently brush your mouth using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Regularly visit your dentist for check-ups and necessary adjustments.
After Getting Dentures
After getting used to dentures, many people notice significant improvements in various areas of their oral health and overall well-being. Here are some benefits of using dentures:
- Improved ability to chew and speak comfortably
- Maintenance of healthy teeth and gums
- Restored youthful appearance to the face
- Increased self-confidence and a more positive self-image
- Enhanced digestion due to better chewing efficiency
- Reduced risk of infections by preventing bacterial overgrowth
Dentures provide a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring confidence, and achieving a beautiful smile. By giving your dentures the right care and attention, you can maintain their functionality and benefits for a longer period, providing you with advantages similar to natural teeth.
Conclusion
As you journey through the process of getting dentures, you're not just restoring your teeth but also reclaiming your confidence and comfort in daily activities. Understanding Dentures: before and after getting them can empower you to make choices that positively impact your dental health and overall well-being.
Ready to experience the benefits of Dentures: Before and After?
Book an appointment online with Shahbazyan DDS Cosmetic & General Dentistry in Fresno, CA, today! New patients can call us at (559) 295-8977, while current patients can reach us at (559) 435-5660. Let us help you achieve a brighter, more confident smile.
FAQ
Most individuals adapt within a few weeks to months with regular use.
They can restore facial volume and contours, enhancing your overall look.
While durable, they may need adjustments or replacements over time due to oral changes.