Full dentures replace natural teeth due to tooth decay, injury or cost. Types include dental implants, complete sets with artificial gum tissue, and Cu-Sil® dentures. Care is similar to real teeth, and immediate dentures can be used as a preliminary. Cu-Sil® dentures allow healthy natural teeth to remain.
Full dentures are an entire set of artificial teeth that are used to replace a person’s natural teeth. The reasons for the need for dentures vary widely and can include tooth decay or injury resulting in tooth loss. Some patients have a few teeth removed, even if they are undamaged, to receive a full denture because the price to get a full set is often lower than getting individual teeth where they are needed.
Various types of full dentures are available, each differing in cost and authenticity. The most realistic way to replace all of your teeth is to get dental implants, although this is the most expensive option. Implants come in the form of individual teeth that can be screwed directly into bolts that are surgically inserted into the gums. Insurance may not cover this type of full denture, because it’s often considered cosmetic rather than health-related, especially since cheaper options are available.
Full dentures can also refer to complete sets of teeth that are already connected with artificial gum tissue. Teeth often connect to the mouth through suction against bone, although denture powders or creams may be needed to aid suction. This type of prosthesis may require a lot of fitting to ensure that the sets fit perfectly in each individual’s mouth. Refitting may also be required as the prosthesis ages.
The care of full dentures is very similar to that of real teeth. They should be brushed every day and many types should be rinsed or soaked overnight. Unlike real teeth, dentures don’t rot or decay, but they can get stained if they aren’t properly cared for, or if the owner drinks beverages like coffee or smokes cigarettes. Dentures can also wear, break and loosen over time, so occasional updates will likely be needed.
In some cases, a patient may also require so-called immediate dentures. These are total prostheses that are given as a preliminary while the real ones are mounted and built. They are placed on the gums soon after natural teeth have been removed and help promote healing just like a bandage or gauze does to a wound. Immediate dentures can also allow the patient to eat more comfortably until the permanent denture is in place.
Another option is the Cu-Sil® denture, which is a full denture with openings that allow healthy natural teeth to remain and penetrate through the gums. This is a good option for those with an unusually shaped mouth, because it provides a tighter fit than traditional dentures, or for those who want to keep as many teeth as possible. These will also need to be specially fitted and may require several visits to get the best fit.
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