Dentures | From Procedure To Aftercare | Dentist Finder South Africa

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable dental prosthetics used to replace missing teeth and restore oral function and aesthetics. They are custom-made to fit comfortably in the mouth and can be either full dentures, replacing all teeth in an arch, or partial dentures, replacing one or more missing teeth while preserving remaining natural teeth.

Types of Dentures

In South Africa, several types of dentures are available to meet the diverse needs of patients:

1. Full Dentures: Also known as complete dentures, these prosthetics replace all teeth in the upper or lower arch. They rest on the gums and are held in place by suction or dental adhesive.
2. Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain in the mouth. They feature artificial teeth attached to a metal framework that clasps onto existing teeth for support and stability.
3. Implant-Supported Dentures: These dentures are secured in place by dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures offer enhanced stability and chewing efficiency compared to traditional dentures.

Preparation for Dentures

Before undergoing denture placement in South Africa, thorough preparation is essential to ensure successful outcomes and optimal oral health. Here’s what you can expect during the preparation phase for dentures:

• Initial Consultation: Schedule an initial consultation with your dentist to discuss your options for dentures. During this appointment, your dentist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment goals, and recommend the most suitable type of dentures for your needs.
• Comprehensive Examination: Undergo a comprehensive dental examination, including X-rays and impressions of your teeth and gums. This information will help your dentist assess the condition of your oral tissues and determine the best approach for denture placement.
• Treatment Planning: Work closely with your dentist to develop a treatment plan that addresses your concerns and goals for dentures. Your treatment plan will outline the type of dentures recommended, the number of teeth to be replaced, and any additional procedures, such as tooth extractions or gum treatments, that may be necessary.

The Denture Placement Procedure

• Tooth Extractions (if applicable): If you have remaining natural teeth that need to be extracted before denture placement, your dentist will perform these extractions in a separate appointment. This allows your gums time to heal before receiving your dentures.

• Try-In Appointment: Once your dentures are fabricated, you’ll have a try-in appointment to test the fit, appearance, and function of the dentures. Your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
• Final Placement of Dentures: After any adjustments are made, your final dentures will be placed in your mouth. Your dentist will ensure that the dentures fit properly and provide instructions on how to care for them.
• Adjustment Period: It may take some time to adjust to wearing dentures, especially if you’re new to wearing them. You may experience some discomfort or difficulty speaking and eating initially, but this should improve with time as you become accustomed to your dentures.

Benefits of Dentures

Dentures offer numerous benefits to individuals dealing with tooth loss, including:

1. Restored Chewing Function: Dentures enable individuals to chew a variety of foods comfortably, improving their ability to eat a balanced diet and maintain proper nutrition.
2. Enhanced Aesthetics: Dentures provide a natural-looking smile, restoring confidence and self-esteem for individuals with missing teeth.
3. Speech Improvement: Dentures help support the lips and cheeks, improving speech clarity and pronunciation for individuals with missing teeth.
4. Preservation of Facial Structure: By replacing missing teeth and supporting facial muscles, dentures help maintain facial aesthetics and prevent sagging or sunken appearance associated with tooth loss.

Denture Placement Aftercare

After undergoing denture placement in South Africa, proper aftercare is essential to ensure the longevity and comfort of your new prosthetics. Here are some important steps to follow during the post-placement period:

• Adapting to Your Dentures: It’s normal to experience some discomfort or difficulty adjusting to your new dentures, especially during the initial days. Practice speaking, eating, and smiling with your dentures to become accustomed to them gradually.
• Oral Hygiene Practices: Maintain good oral hygiene by cleaning your dentures daily to remove food particles and plaque buildup. Use a soft-bristled brush or denture cleaner recommended by your dentist to clean all surfaces of your dentures thoroughly.
• Care for Your Mouth and Gums: In addition to cleaning your dentures, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene for your mouth and gums. Brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft-bristled brush each morning before inserting your dentures to stimulate circulation and remove bacteria.
• Handle Dentures with Care: Handle your dentures carefully to avoid damage. When removing or inserting your dentures, do so over a soft towel or basin of water to cushion them in case they fall. Avoid bending or twisting your dentures, as this can cause them to break or warp.
• Attend Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular check-up appointments with your dentist to monitor the fit and condition of your dentures. Your dentist will check for any signs of wear, irritation, or changes in your oral health and make any necessary adjustments or repairs.
• Addressing Discomfort: If you experience any discomfort or soreness while wearing your dentures, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist for assistance. They can make adjustments to your dentures to improve their fit and alleviate any discomfort.
• Dietary Considerations: Initially, stick to soft or liquid foods to ease the transition to wearing dentures. As you become more comfortable, gradually reintroduce firmer foods into your diet, cutting them into smaller pieces to make chewing easier.