Why should dental care be considered?

Dentures are a common dental restoration option used to replace missing teeth. While effective, there are some potential problems caused by these poorly made dentures and bridges. Tooth Decay Teeth adjacent to dentures can be prone to tooth decay if oral hygiene is not maintained properly, as they become attached to dentures and are difficult to clean properly. Gum disease The accumulation of plaque and bacteria under the denture can lead to gum disease, which can cause the denture to fail. Broken dentures can break due to wear and tear or trauma. Discomfort Some people experience discomfort or pain when biting into food, especially if their dentures don’t fit properly. Depending on the placement of the Aesthetic Denture and the surrounding teeth, it may not look as natural as the real tooth. Longevity Dental prostheses are not a permanent solution and may need to be replaced over time. It’s important to discuss potential problems with your dentist and weigh the risks and benefits before deciding to get dentures. Tooth decay with dentures If oral hygiene is not properly maintained, dentures can increase the risk of tooth decay. Teeth next to dentures can be more difficult to clean, making it easier for bacteria to build up and cause tooth decay. It is important to carefully clean the area around the dentures with a toothbrush, dental floss or interdental brush to remove any food debris or plaque that may build up in the area. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also important to prevent tooth decay and ensure the longevity of dentures. If caries occurs, the dentures may need to be removed and the dentures replaced to treat the decayed tooth. It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions on oral hygiene and care to reduce the risk of tooth decay. Gum disease in dentures Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, can be a problem with dentures if oral hygiene is not properly maintained. Bacteria and plaque can build up under and around dentures, causing gum inflammation and irritation. This can lead to gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

If left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease, a more serious gum disease that can cause receding gums, tooth loss, and bone damage. To prevent gum disease with dentures, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria. It is also important to thoroughly clean the area around the denture with dental floss or an interdental brush to remove any residue under the denture. Regular dental checkups and dental cleanings are essential to detect and treat gum disease early before it causes permanent damage. If you notice any signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or loose teeth, you should contact your dentist immediately for evaluation. Your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning or exfoliation and root pruning to remove bacteria and plaque from your teeth and gums. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to treat gum disease and prevent further damage. Discomfort with dentures If you are experiencing discomfort with your dentures, it is important to contact your dentist for evaluation. Your dentist may need to adjust the denture or make other changes to improve the fit and comfort of the denture. In some cases, a new prosthesis may be necessary if the existing one cannot be adjusted properly. It is important to follow your dentist’s care and maintenance recommendations to avoid discomfort and ensure the longevity of your dentures. Poor aesthetics and dentures The aesthetics of dentures can be a concern for some people. Depending on the placement of the denture and surrounding teeth, it may not look as natural as the real tooth. Factors that can affect the aesthetics of dental prostheses include the color, shape, size, and location of the replacement tooth or teeth.

Poor aesthetics can also be caused by a difference in color or size between the denture and the natural tooth. To correct poor aesthetics with dentures, your dentist may recommend dentures made from materials that closely resemble natural teeth, such as porcelain or ceramic. Dentures can be adjusted to match the color, shape and size of the surrounding teeth for a more natural appearance. In some cases, your dentist may recommend other cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening or veneers, to improve the overall appearance of your smile. It is important to discuss your concerns with your dentist and work together to develop a treatment plan that meets your aesthetic goals and functional needs. With proper care and maintenance, a dental prosthesis can provide a natural-looking and long-lasting solution for missing teeth. What should be done to ensure the longevity of dental bridges and dentures? Dentures typically last 5-15 years or more with proper care. Over time, however, dentures can become loose or damaged and may need to be replaced. Some signs that dentures need to be replaced include: Pain or discomfort: If you experience pain or discomfort when biting into food, this could be a sign that the dentures are loose or damaged. Visible damage: If you notice any visible damage to the denture, such as cracks, chips, or missing parts, it may need to be replaced. Slipping or movement: If dentures slip or move while eating or talking, it may indicate that they are loose and need to be replaced. Gum irritation: If you experience gum irritation or inflammation around the denture, it could be a sign that the denture is not fitting properly or there is a problem with the underlying teeth. Bad taste or smell: If the denture has a bad taste or smell, it could be a sign of infection or decay and may need to be replaced.

If you suspect that dentures need to be replaced, it is important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist can evaluate your dentures and advise you on the best course of action to restore your oral health and function. Depending on the extent of the damage, your dentist may recommend a complete repair or replacement of your dentures.