Getting dentures or false teeth can feel overwhelming, but rest assured that there are many options available to suit different needs. Taking considerations such as health, budget and lifestyle into account, a dental professional can help you make a decision that suits you.
Whatever option you choose, dentures can greatly improve your quality of quality of life. With assistance from a dentist, you can find a solution that restores your smile and helps you to feel confident and comfortable.
What Are Removable Dentures?
Removable dentures are a type of dental prosthetic that are used to replace missing teeth. They consist of a gum-colored acrylic base that fits over the gums, and a set of artificial teeth that are attached to the base. Removable dentures or partial dentures can be used to replace a few missing teeth or a full set of teeth, depending on the patient’s needs.
They are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth, and are typically held in place by suction or clips that attach to the remaining natural teeth.
Are Removable Dentures Right for You?
Removable dentures offer several benefits over permanent dental options. First, they are more affordable than permanent solutions such as dental implants. This makes them an ideal choice for people who want to replace missing teeth but have budget constraints.
Secondly, false teeth are non-invasive and can be easily removed for cleaning and maintenance, which helps in maintaining good oral hygiene. Removable dentures can also be a good option for people who are not suitable candidates for permanent dental solutions due to health issues or other reasons.
Now we come to the big one. A lot of people wonder if removable dentures are comfortable. Luckily, we have found that they can feel almost natural! This comes down to the hard work shaping and refining the dentures in the first place. The more natural the fit, the more comfortable your dentures will be.
Of course, as your mouth changes over time, they may need to be adjusted or replaced, but when done properly, you should have no issues when it comes to comfort.
What to Know Before You Get Removable Dentures?
While removable dentures have several benefits, they also have some downsides compared to permanent dental options.
For example, they may be less stable than permanent solutions, which can affect the ability to eat certain foods or speak clearly. Removable dentures can also cause irritation, soreness, or even infection of the gums and mouth if they do not fit properly or if they are not cleaned and maintained regularly.
Additionally, removable dentures may require frequent adjustments and replacements as the shape of the jawbone changes over time. Some people may experience a loss of taste or a decreased sense of taste due to the covering of the palate by the denture base.
Are There More Permanent Options?
Several permanent options are available to replace missing teeth, including dental implants, dental bridges, and implant-supported dentures. Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and act as a replacement root for a missing tooth. Dental bridges, on the other hand, involve using the surrounding teeth to anchor a false tooth in place.
There’s also implant-supported dentures, which are a hybrid option that combine the stability of dental implants with the convenience of dentures. These are secured into place by dental implants and can be removed for cleaning and maintenance.
Pros of Dental Implants
More permanent alternatives to removable dentures offer several benefits. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that they are more stable and secure, allowing people to eat and speak with confidence. This is especially important for those who have experienced significant tooth loss, as removable dentures can sometimes be uncomfortable and can move around in the mouth.
Additionally, permanent alternatives such as dental implants and bridges can last a lifetime with proper care, making them a worthwhile investment in long-term oral health. They can also improve the overall appearance of the mouth and face, leading to a boost in self-confidence and self-esteem.
Finally, more permanent alternatives often require less maintenance than removable dentures, which need to be removed and cleaned regularly.
What to Know Before You Get Dental Implants?
As effective as the permanent alternatives may be, there are some downsides to consider. For one thing, these options can be more invasive and require more time and effort to install. Dental implants, for example, involve a surgical procedure and require a healing period before they can be used. Options such as these can also be more expensive than removable dentures, making them less accessible to those on a budget.
It is also worth noting that some people may experience discomfort or pain during or after such procedures, although this is rare and can be managed with medication. Furthermore, while permanent alternatives can last a long time, they may require maintenance or replacement due to natural wear and tear or changes in the structure of the mouth.
Which Option is Right for Me?
When it comes to false teeth, removable dentures are generally going to be the more practical option for the average person. If you’re still uncertain, however, there are a few factors to consider that might assist in making the decision.
Health
If there are underlying dental issues, such as gum disease or decay, these will need to be addressed before any permanent alternatives can be considered. In some cases, removable dentures may be a better option until any underlying issues have been resolved.
Budget
Removable dentures are typically less expensive than permanent alternatives such as dental implants or bridges, so cost may be a limiting factor for some people.
Likelihood of Ongoing Changes
If a person is still experiencing tooth loss or has a history of dental issues, a permanent solution may not be the best choice, as it may need to be replaced or adjusted in the future. In such cases, removable dentures may be a more practical option.
Time
It can be helpful to take the amount of time and effort required for installation into account. More permanent options may require multiple appointments and a healing period, whereas removable dentures can be made and fitted in a shorter period of time.
If you still aren’t sure what’s better — dental implants or partial dentures — for you, it’s a good idea to chat with your dentist. They’ll be able to use their knowledge of both what’s available and your unique oral health history to find the ideal fit.
Find Exceptional Denture Care Today at Direct Denture Care!
If you’re experiencing any unease or uncertainty around getting false teeth, talk to your dentist about your options. They can assist you in making a decision and help you to understand the processes involved. Experienced professionals such as those at Direct Denture Care take an empathetic approach to dental work, and can help you choose an option that will best suit your needs. Contact us today and restore that wonderful smile!
