Dentures are a popular and effective solution for people who have lost some or all of their teeth due to aging, tooth decay, or other oral health issues. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about dentures, from the materials used to make them to how they can impact your appearance. Let’s dive in!
What Are Dentures Made Of?
Dentures in Clearwater are custom-made, removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. There are two main types of dentures: complete (full) dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures replace an entire upper or lower arch of teeth, while partial dentures replace one or more missing teeth.
Denture Base
The base of a denture is typically made from acrylic resin or flexible nylon material. The base is designed to mimic the appearance of your natural gums and provide support for the artificial teeth.
Denture Teeth
The denture’s artificial teeth can be made from various materials, including porcelain, acrylic resin, or a combination of both. Each material has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and your dentist will help you choose the best option based on your specific needs and preferences.
Porcelain teeth are known for their durability and natural appearance. They are more resistant to wear and staining compared to acrylic teeth. However, porcelain teeth can be more prone to chipping and cracking and may cause more wear on your natural teeth if you have a partial denture.
Acrylic teeth are lighter and less expensive than porcelain teeth. They can also be more easily adjusted and repaired if needed. However, they are more susceptible to wear and staining over time.
Can Dentures in Clearwater Be Whitened?
Dentures, especially those with acrylic teeth, may become stained or discolored over time due to smoking, consuming certain foods and beverages, and natural aging. Unlike natural teeth, dentures cannot be whitened using traditional teeth whitening methods, such as bleaching or whitening strips. These products can damage the denture material and reduce its lifespan.
Instead, it’s essential to maintain proper denture hygiene to prevent staining and discoloration. This includes cleaning your dentures daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and a denture cleanser. Regularly soaking your dentures in a denture cleaning solution can also help remove stains and maintain their appearance.
If your dentures become severely stained or discolored, it’s best to consult with your dentist Dr. Earl Santos, who can professionally clean them or recommend replacing the denture teeth if necessary.
How Will I Look with Dentures?
Many people worry about how they will look with dentures, fearing that they’ll appear unnatural or easily noticeable. The good news is that modern dentures are designed to closely resemble your natural teeth and gums, providing a realistic and aesthetically pleasing result. In fact, studies show that well-fitting and natural-looking dentures can significantly improve an individual’s appearance, self-esteem, and overall quality of life.
To ensure your dentures look and feel as natural as possible, Dr. Santos will take accurate measurements and impressions of your mouth. This allows our team to create a custom denture that fits comfortably and securely in your mouth, preventing slippage or discomfort while speaking or eating.
Additionally, Dr. Santos can help you choose the appropriate shape, size, and color of the artificial teeth to best match your natural teeth and facial features. In some cases, dentures can even improve facial structure by providing support for the lips and cheeks, which can become sunken or sag due to tooth loss. Well-fitting dentures can improve your ability to chew and speak while creating a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Contact Us about Modern Dentures in Clearwater, FL
Dentures are a reliable and effective solution for individuals who have lost their teeth, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. By understanding the materials used in denture construction, proper denture care, and how they can impact your appearance, you can make an informed decision about whether dentures are the right choice for you.
Call us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Santos to learn more about our custom-made dentures in Clearwater.
We look forward to seeing you at Causeway Dentistry!
