Get Back Your Natural Looking Smile with Complete Dentures

Complete dentures, also known as full dentures, are removable dental appliances designed to replace all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. In contrast to partial dentures, complete dentures are created when no teeth are remaining in the arch, therefore they are custom-made to fit your mouth and provide a natural-looking appearance. Full dentures play a crucial role for individuals who have lost all their natural teeth, allowing them to regain the ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently.

For individuals who have lost all their natural teeth, complete dentures are essential. They not only restore the functionality of the mouth but also significantly improve the aesthetics of the smile. Furthermore, these denture services can enhance overall oral health and quality of life.

Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support the teeth, caused by the buildup of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria on the teeth and gums. In the early stages, this plaque buildup can cause swollen and red gums that bleed easily. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, leading to inflammation and infection of the gums. Over time, this infection can destroy both the gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth, causing them to become loose and eventually fall out.

While gum disease is primarily caused by bacteria in the mouth infecting the tissue around the teeth, other factors can also contribute to its development. These factors include conditions like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, high levels of homocysteine in the blood, certain medications, and family history. A person can be diagnosed with periodontal disease through a thorough examination of the gum tissue around the teeth, both visually and with the help of X-rays to check for bone loss.

Dental Caries (Tooth Decay)

Tooth decay or dental caries is another major cause of tooth loss. It occurs when the enamel (the hard outer layer of the tooth) is damaged by acids produces by bacteria in the mouth. These acids form when sugar and starches from food interact with the bacteria in plaque. If not treated, tooth decay can progress through the enamel into the dentin (the softer layer beneath the enamel) and eventually reach the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth), leading to infection and tooth loss.

The main cause of cavities is a diet high in sugar. Other risk factors include conditions that cause reduced saliva, such as diabetes mellitus, and certain medications, such as antihistamines and antidepressants. Dental caries are also associated with poor oral hygiene and receding gums, which result in exposed tooth roots.

Injury or Trauma

Accidents and physical injuries can cause significant damage to the teeth. A severe blow to the mouth from a fall, car accident, or sports injury can result in broken, cracked, or knocked-out teeth. Depending on the extent of the damage, the affected teeth may not be salvageable, necessitating their removal.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can also impact oral health and lead to tooth loss. Diseases such as diabetes can reduce the body’s ability to fight infections, including those in the mouth, making individuals more susceptible to gum disease. Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones, can also affect the jawbone, leading to tooth loss. Additionally, treatments for conditions like cancer, such as radiation and chemotherapy, can weaken the teeth and gums, increasing the risk of tooth loss. 

Physical Impact

Digestive Issues: Missing teeth can make it challenging to chew food properly, leading to poor digestion and potential nutritional deficiencies.

Changes in Facial Structure: Teeth play a crucial role in supporting the facial muscles. Without them, the face can appear sunken and aged.

Brain Function: Tooth loss can affect brain function by altering neural pathways and leading to detrimental neuroplastic changes, potentially impacting taste, hearing, and cognitive decline.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Issues: Tooth loss can cause stress to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which plays a crucial role in jaw movement. Changes in the jaw area can place pressure on the TMJ, leading to improper function, pain, headaches, and discomfort.

Oral Health Impact

Shifting Teeth: The remaining teeth may shift out of place, leading to misalignment and bite problems.

Increased Risk of Oral Health Issues: Gaps from missing teeth can become breeding grounds for bacteria, increasing the risk of gum disease and further tooth loss.

Psychological Impact

Decreased Self-Confidence: Missing teeth can affect one’s self-esteem and confidence, leading to social withdrawal and reduced quality of life.

Speech Disorders: Teeth are essential for clear speech. Missing teeth can cause speech problems, making it difficult to pronounce certain words correctly.

Complete dentures offer numerous benefits that can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals who have lost all their natural teeth.

Restore Optimal Chewing Function

Complete dentures restore the ability to chew food effectively, allowing for a more varied and nutritious diet. This improvement in chewing function aids digestion and overall health.

Improves Aesthetics of the Smile and Facial Appearance

Complete dentures are designed to look like natural teeth, enhancing the appearance of your smile. They also provide support to the facial muscles, preventing the sunken look that can occur with missing teeth.

Prevent Changes in Facial Structure

By providing support to the lips and cheeks, complete dentures help maintain the natural shape of your face, preventing the premature aging that can result from tooth loss.

Improve the Ability to Speak More Clearly

Teeth play a vital role in speech. Complete dentures help improve speech clarity, allowing you to pronounce words correctly and communicate effectively.

Several factors can damage your dentures. Let’s explore the common causes and how to avoid them.

Common Causes of Denture Damage

Poor Hygiene: Failing to clean your dentures properly can lead to the buildup of plaque and bacteria, weakening the denture material.

Overuse: Wearing dentures continuously without giving them a break can cause them to wear out faster.

Accidents: Dropping your dentures or biting down on hard foods can cause cracks or fractures.

Tips to Prevent Damage

Proper Cleaning: Clean your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive cleanser. Rinse them thoroughly after meals.

Soaking: Make it a habit to soak your dentures every night in warm water and a denture cleaning solution. This helps keep them clean and prevents overuse.

Handle with Care: Always handle your dentures gently to avoid dropping and damaging them.

Avoid Hard Foods: Steer clear of hard or sticky foods that can cause damage to your dentures.

Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular visits with your denturist to ensure your dentures are in good condition and to catch any potential issues early.

Proper care of your complete dentures is essential to ensure their longevity and maintain oral hygiene, including:

Daily Cleaning Routine

Rinse After Eating: Remove your dentures and rinse them under running water to remove food particles.

Brush Your Dentures: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive denture cleanser to brush all surfaces of the dentures. Avoid using regular toothpaste as it can be too abrasive.

Soak Overnight: Place your dentures in a denture soaking solution or plain water overnight to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out.

Tips for Maintaining Comfort and Freshness

Handle with Care: Always handle your dentures gently to avoid dropping and damaging them.

Rinse Your Mouth: Rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash before putting your dentures back in.

Use Denture Adhesives: If needed, use a denture adhesive to improve the fit and stability of your dentures.

Clean Your Mouth: Brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth twice a day to maintain oral hygiene.

Regular Check-Ups: It’s essential to schedule routine visits with your denturist to ensure your dentures fit properly and function as they should. Regular maintenance, such as relining or rebasing, during these check-ups can significantly extend the life of your dentures and keep them comfortable. Consistent check-ups are crucial to maintaining the health and longevity of your complete dentures.