What are dentures?

Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth.

What are partial dentures?

Partial dentures are dentures that replace only a few missing teeth.

How do you wear a removable partial denture?

Removable partial dentures are attached to your natural teeth with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments.

What are complete dentures?

Complete dentures are dentures that replace a complete set of missing teeth.

Difference between conventional dentures and immediate dentures?

Conventional dentures are dentures that are made and placed after the remaining teeth are removed and the tissues have healed. Immediate dentures are dentures that are placed immediately after the removal of the remaining teeth.

What is an over-denture?

An over-denture is a denture that fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth or implants.

How long will it take to get used to wearing a partial denture?

Your partial denture may feel awkward or bulky for the first few weeks, but your mouth will eventually get used to it.

How long should you wear a partial denture?

Initially, you may want to wear your partial denture all the time. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how long it should be worn and when it should be removed. Generally, your mouth tissues need to rest so it is advisable that you take out your partial denture at least 15 minutes per day.

Will the partial denture change the way you speak?

Your partial denture may help your speech. It can be difficult to speak clearly when you are missing teeth. However, it also will take time to get used to it.

How do you clean your dentures?

When cleaning your dentures, you should first rinse away loose food particles thoroughly. Then moisten your toothbrush and apply denture cleanser. Brush every surface, scrubbing gently to avoid damage. The denture needs to be cleaned two to three times daily. In addition to taking care of your dentures, taking care of your mouth also is vital if you wear full dentures. This includes brushing your gums, tongue, and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush before inserting your dentures. This stimulates your tissues and helps remove plaque. We also recommend an oral cancer screening at least once a year.

What should you do if your dentures crack or break?

Call your dentist immediately. Normally, dentures can be repaired quickly, often on the same day at Radiant Dental. Damaged dentures can cause additional oral health problems, so see your dentist right away. Never attempt to repair dentures yourself. They require professional repair and adjustment. Glues often contain harmful chemicals and are not effective in the proper repair of dentures.

What are the denture problems?

Many denture wearers in the Bolingbrook area breathe a sigh of relief when they get their first pair of dentures because they think their dental problems are over. What they soon realize, however, is that they have just traded some old problems for new ones.

Even the best dentures can’t compete with natural teeth in ability to chew food efficiently and comfortably. As the years go by, the supporting ridges that remain after teeth have been removed gradually change and get smaller.

We believe that for most patients, their dentures need to be “relined” or “refitted” every 2-4 years so that the denture will conform to the changing ridge. A large change in weight can also alter the shape of the mouth, causing changes in the fit

What do dentures feel like?

For a few weeks, new dentures will feel awkward until you become accustomed to them. They might feel loose until the cheek and tongue muscles learn to hold them in position. It is not unusual to feel minor irritation or soreness. The patient needs to see his or her dentist for regular fit adjustments to relieve any sore areas.

Do dentures need to be replaced?

At Radiant Dental we find that dentures will need to be relined, remade, or rebased due to normal wear over a period of time and normal shrinkage of your gums and bones.

Are you able to eat with dentures?

Eating with dentures will take a little practice. You should start with soft foods that are cut into small pieces. As you become used to chewing, you can return to your normal diet. There are only a few eating restrictions for denture wearers. Avoid biting down directly on crunchy or hard foods, like whole apples, hard pretzels, crusty bread, or large sandwiches. They can break because of the angle where the denture comes into contact with the hard surface.