Denture Advice

Losing your natural teeth or suffering from a periodontal disease can be detrimental to your health and appearance. Missing teeth can mean the inability to properly eat, speak and smile with confidence. Luckily, various models of false teeth exist to combat these problems. Use this guide when finding the best dentures for you.

Types

• Speak to a dentist about which denture model matches your needs. Dentures come in three main categories, according to the Colgate website. Conventional dentures are a full set placed in the mouth after the remaining teeth are removed. This type isn't made until after tissues have healed, which can take between six and eight weeks. Immediate dentures refer to false teeth that are inserted right after remaining teeth are removed. This model means you'll never have to be without teeth during the healing period, but because bones and gums reform over time, you might need realignment later. Partial dentures rest on a metal framework that attaches to natural teeth.

Cost

• Prices of dentures range from $300 to $4,000, according to Cost Helper, depending on complexity of construction, plate package and the materials used. To find reduced rates, check out nearby dental college clinics or for a list visit the website Dental Site. Researching national and state dental associations can also identify low income programs that could assist.

Considerations

• Shortly after dentures are inserted, your mouth will likely feel awkward and slightly irritated. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), it is common to experience minor soreness and have saliva flow temporarily increase as your mouth gets used to the new teeth. Consult your dentist if the irritation does not subside after two to three weeks. Some other helpful hints: Start with soft-non sticky meals. Cut food into small pieces and chew slowly using both sides of your mouth.

Care

• Taking care of your mouth is must with dentures. Brush your gums, tongue and palate each morning with a soft brush before insertion. The ADA explains that this technique stimulates tissue circulation and helps remove plaque. Before bed, use a denture care product to clean your false teeth and put them in water or a cleansing liquid. The practice reduces bad breath and swollen gums.

Longevity

• Most dentures will need realignment, rebasing or reconstruction over time due to normal wear. Rebasing refers to making a new base of the model while keeping existing denture teeth. As you grow older, your mouth also naturally ages. These changes can cause your dentures to loosen, making chewing difficult and irritating your gum. Never attempt to fix denture cracks yourself. Visit your dentist annually for a checkup and alert him to any problems affecting your dentures.