Immediate Dentures
An immediate denture (partial or complete) is inserted directly after the involved teeth are removed. It is a TEMPORARY solution to restore esthetics. Function, however, will be compromised and limited until a final and more permanent solution is obtained. The general guideline is that an immediate denture will require replacement 6 weeks to 6 months after insertion. The bone supporting the teeth reshapes as it heals, causing the denture to eventually become loose.
Flipper
The flipper is a temporary removable partial denture that can replace one or a few missing teeth to give the illusion of a full smile. This is can be made as an immediate replacement for a tooth/teeth that are are planned to be removed. We do not recommend flippers for long term use because they can be uncomfortable, have a loose fit, and are barely functional. Once the involved area is healed &/or the patients is ready for a permanent restoration, more functional and ideal options should be considered like implants and fixed bridge work.
How to Maintain Dentures
Real or fake, taking care of your teeth is important. Removable and permanent dentures are cared for differently and understanding how to care for yours is essential for their longevity. Over time, the architecture of the bone & gums will change, and more so in areas without teeth. These changes can cause your dentures to loosen, making chewing difficult and irritating your gums. This may warrant the need to reline, rebase, or remake the denture. This is why, as part of your care, regular check-ups are always necessary. Here are tips to help you care for dentures:
- DENTURES ARE FRAGILE! When handling dentures, stand over a folded towel or basin of water. Dentures are delicate and may break if dropped.
- DON'T LET DENTURES DRY OUT! Place them in a denture cleanser soaking solution or in plain water with a drop of clorox when you're not wearing them. Never use hot water, which can cause dentures to warp.
- BRUSHING DENTURES DAILY! This will remove food and dental plaque, and help prevent them from becoming stained. An ultrasonic cleaner may be used to care for dentures, but it does not replace a thorough daily brushing.
- KEEP TEETH & GUMS HEALTHY & CLEAN! Brush your gums, tongue and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush before you insert dentures. This stimulates circulation in your tissues and helps remove plaque.
- CONTACT US IF YOUR DENTURE BREAKS/CHIPS! See your dentist if dentures break, chip, crack, or become loose. Don't be tempted to adjust them yourself ? this can damage them beyond repair.
- DON'T FORGET ABOUT YOUR CHECK-UPS! Whether its is some teeth or no teeth, we want to make sure there are no signs of pathology and no need for any additional treatment.
If you are ever unsure about how to care for your dentures, feel free to contact Dr. Kumar with any questions.
