Dentures or dentures are tools to replace missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissue. The use of dentures can overcome complaints that arise due to missing teeth, such as eating and speaking disorders, as well as decreased self-confidence.

Dentures are divided into two types, namely partial dentures and complete dentures. Partial dentures are used to replace one or more missing teeth. Meanwhile, complete dentures are used to replace all teeth, both upper and lower teeth.

Dentures Indications

Dentures are usually needed by people aged 60 years and over, because generally at that age, teeth naturally begin to fall out on their own. However, dentures are also needed by children and adults who have lost their teeth.

Some of the conditions that can cause tooth loss or require the use of dentures are:

  1. Toothache

Unbearable toothache can be a sign of tooth decay that radiates to the root of the tooth. If the damage is very severe, the tooth must be extracted and replaced with dentures.

  1. loose teeth

In some cases, loose teeth can be a sign of gum disease. In this case, the loose teeth must be removed and replaced with dentures.

  1. Gum disease

Gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis can not only cause gums to swell and bleed, but they can also cause teeth to fall out.

  1. Teeth fall out

A person who has lost one or more teeth will be advised to wear dentures. In addition to preventing tooth shifting, wearing dentures will also improve appearance.

Dentures Warning

The following are some things to know before using dentures:

  1. Eating with dentures may be uncomfortable. This can last up to several weeks. To get used to it, start eating soft foods in small pieces and chew slowly.
  2. After wearing dentures, the patient may have difficulty pronouncing a number of words. This difficulty can be overcome by frequent practice of pronouncing the words that are difficult to pronounce. However, if it persists, the patient needs to see a doctor.
  3. Patients may be advised to keep their dentures on at bedtime for the first few days. This is so that the patient knows which part of the denture needs adjustment. After the adjustment, the patient can remove the dentures when going to sleep.
  4. It is recommended to go to the doctor if the denture feels loose, causing discomfort or injury to the gums. Examination is also necessary if the patient uses a lot of denture glue. This can indicate that the dentures need adjustment or need to be replaced with new ones.

Before Placing Dentures

Before undergoing the installation of dentures, there are several preparations that need to be done, namely:

  • The dentist will measure the patient’s jaw, then make a wax model of the denture for the patient to try on. This wax model serves to match the shape of the patient’s dentures and jaws before the dentures are cast.
  • Patients who will be fitted with partial dentures will not undergo tooth extraction first. However, in patients who will use complete dentures, the doctor will remove the remaining teeth.
  • The doctor will print dentures from plastic, nylon, or metal. After the dentures are printed, the doctor will check the condition of the patient’s oral health before placing the dentures.

After Placing Dentures

Dentures, both partial and complete, still require regular care just like natural teeth. To clean dentures, do the following:

  • Remove the dentures from the mouth slowly.
  • Clean the gums, tongue, and roof of the mouth using a soft toothbrush. If using denture glue, remove any excess glue from the gums.
  • Gently rinse the dentures under running water. To keep it from cracking when dropped, place a towel under it or fill the sink with water.
  • Gently clean dentures using a brush and toothpaste specially for dentures.
  • Wash dentures using clean water. After that, the dentures can be used again.
  • In addition to cleaning, you should also take care of your dentures by:
  • Remove your dentures every night to give your mouth and gums some rest.
  • Brush dentures in the manner described above, then soak them in warm water. If necessary, add a special cleaner for dentures to the water.
  • Store dentures in a container of clean water when not in use. Keep in mind, do not immerse dentures in water that is too hot.
  • Have regular dental check-ups. If there are cracks in the dentures, take them to the dentist to have them repaired or replaced with new ones.

Teeth Side Effects False

Some of the side effects that you can experience while wearing dentures are:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Pain in the gums
  • loose dentures
  • Swollen gums
  • Injuries to the gums to form an abscess
  • Bad breath

 

Health Care