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Questions And Answers About Dentures

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Dentures are often used to replace multiple missing teeth. Here are a few questions and answers about these prosthetic dental appliances:

What are dentures made of?

The false teeth of a denture are made of porcelain or acrylic resin. The teeth are attached to a base plate, and that is fashioned from metal or acrylic resin.

How long do dentures last?

Dentures usually last several years. However, over time, the fit of the dentures may necessitate their replacement. As a person ages, changes in the density of the jawbone can cause the dentures to loosen, making it difficult for a patient to hold the appliance in place.

What types of dentures are available?

There are several different types of dentures. Your dentist is likely to prescribe one based on your individual needs.

Full Dentures

A full denture is used to replace all of the teeth in a palate. If a patient no longer has any natural teeth in his or her upper or lower palate, full dentures are prescribed.

The dentures are customized to fit the patient's gums precisely. Thus, when full dentures fit properly, they may be held in place primarily using the natural function of the mouth. However, dental adhesive may be used to provide an even better hold for the appliance.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are used to replace multiple teeth in a palate when some remaining teeth are still present. The missing teeth may be located in a grouped cluster, or they may be randomly spaced throughout the palate.

Overdenture

An overdenture is a special type of denture that includes a connecting mechanism underneath the denture. The connectors can attach to dental implants or to natural teeth. This ability to connect is important for dental patients who find it difficult to keep their dentures securely in place.

Particles of food that become trapped between the base of denture and the gums due to a loose fit can be uncomfortable. In addition, as a patient tries to hold a denture in place with his or her tongue, the clarity of the patient's speech can suffer. The patient may also start to lack the confidence needed to interact comfortably in social situations.

Partial dentures are usually overdentures, but full dentures can be either overdentures or be secured by implants.

Does dental insurance pay for dentures?

If you have dental insurance and your dentures are medically necessary, the cost of dentures may be reduced by 15 to 50 percent.

If you are missing multiple teeth and are considering dentures, contact a dentist like Michele A Bibeau DDS


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