Removable partial dentures usually consist of replacement teeth attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases. Depending on your needs, your dentist will design a sectional denture for you. A partial denture may have a metal frame and clips that attach to your teeth, or it may have other connectors that look more natural. In some cases, removable partial dentures are made to attach them to your natural teeth with devices called precision attachments. Precision attachments are generally more aesthetic than buckles.
Crowns on your natural teeth are sometimes needed to improve the fit of removable partial dentures, and they are often required in conjunction with attachments. Partial dentures with precision attachments are generally more expensive than those with buckles. Consult your dentist to find out which type is right for you.
What you can expect:
.At first, your new partial denture may feel awkward or bulky. This is normal and you will eventually get used to wearing it.
.Installing and removing the partial denture will take some practice.
.Follow all instructions given by your dentist. Your denture should fit into place relatively easily. Never force the partial denture into place by biting down. This can bend or break the fasteners.
.Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how long the denture should be put on and when it should be removed.
.You may be asked to always wear your partitioned denture initially. While this may be irritating at first, it’s the quickest way to identify areas that may need adjusting.
.If the denture puts too much pressure on a particular area, that spot will hurt. Your dentist will adjust the partial denture to fit better. After making the adjustments, your dentist will likely recommend that you remove your partial denture from your mouth at bedtime and put it back on in the morning.
.Eating with dentures should become a more enjoyable experience. Start by eating soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew on both sides of the mouth to keep the pressure equal on both sides. Avoid overly sticky or hard foods. You may want to avoid chewing gum during the acclimatization period.
.Partial dentures can also help improve your speech. If you have trouble pronouncing certain words, practice reading aloud. Repeat the words that are giving you trouble. Over time, you will get used to speaking properly with your partial denture.
Caring for Your Dentures
.Your dentist can recommend a denture cleaner.
.When cleaning a partial denture, it is a good idea to rest on a folded towel or a basin of water in case the denture accidentally falls off.
.Do not use toothpaste as it can be too harsh to clean dentures.
.Some people use hand soap or mild dish soap to clean their dentures, both of which are acceptable. However, most household cleaners are very abrasive and should not be used to clean dentures.
.Brush the denture daily to remove food residue and plaque. It helps to prevent permanent staining of the prosthesis.
.It is best to use a brush designed for denture cleaning, as it has bristles arranged to fit the shape of the denture. A normal, soft-bristled toothbrush is also acceptable.
.Avoid using a stiff bristle brush which could damage the prosthesis.
. Clean your dentures by thoroughly rinsing loose food particles. Moisten the brush and apply denture cleaner. Gently brush all denture surfaces to avoid damaging the plastic or bending the attachments.
.The denture may lose its proper shape if not kept moist. At night, the prosthesis should be placed in a soaking solution or water. Your dentist can recommend the appropriate method to keep your dentures in good condition.
.Do not chew, swallow or gargle with denture cleaners.
.Always rinse thoroughly before placing the prosthesis in your mouth.
Adjustments
Over time, the prosthesis may need to be adjusted. As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the fit of the denture. Your bone and gum ridges may recede or shrink, resulting in a poorly fitting denture.
Prostheses that do not fit properly should be adjusted by your dentist. Poorly fitting dentures can cause a variety of problems, including sores or infections. If your denture becomes loose, see your dentist immediately and maintain regular visits.
Remember;
By trying to adjust or repair your denture, you can seriously damage your denture and your health. Using a DIY kit can cause irreparable damage to the device. Over-the-counter adhesives often contain harmful chemicals and should not be used on dentures. Call your dentist right away if your denture breaks, cracks or crumbles, or if one of the teeth is loose. In most cases, dentists can usually make any necessary adjustments or repairs within the same day. Complex repairs may require sending the prosthesis to a specialized dental laboratory.
