How do dentures help me smile?
Introduction
Missing teeth can leave you feeling self-conscious about your smile, impact your ability to eat certain foods, and even affect your speech. However, thanks to advancements in dental technologies, dentures offer a practical and aesthetic solution to these problems. But how do dentures help you smile? In this blog post, we will explore the various types of dentures available, how they work, and how they can restore your confidence.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They can be full or partial, replacing all teeth or just a few. Full dentures are usually prescribed by Clinical Dental Technicians, while partial dentures must be prescribed by a dentist, according to the General Dental Council (GDC).
Types of Dentures
There are several types of dentures available, including acrylic, chrome, flexible (Valplast), injection moulded, and 3D printed options. The lifespan of these dentures varies, with standard acrylic dentures lasting 1–3 years, high-impact acrylic and flexible dentures lasting 3–5 years, chrome dentures lasting 8–12 years, and the lifespan of injection moulded and 3D printed options varying depending on the treatment type and provider. For more detailed information on the cost of these different types of dentures, please refer to our denture cost guide.
Acrylic Dentures
Acrylic dentures are the most common type of denture. They are made from a plastic material that closely resembles your gum tissue, helping to make the denture look more natural.
Chrome Dentures
Chrome dentures are durable and typically more comfortable than acrylic dentures. They are made from a metal alloy, which is thinner and stronger than plastic, resulting in a more secure and comfortable fit.
Flexible Dentures
Flexible dentures, such as Valplast, are a newer type of partial denture that are designed to be more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing than traditional dentures. They are made from a flexible material that allows them to fit more snugly around the natural contours of your mouth.
How Do Dentures Help You Smile?
Dentures can help to restore your smile in several ways. Firstly, they replace missing teeth, which can greatly improve your appearance and self-confidence. They also provide support for your cheeks and lips, helping to maintain the natural shape of your face and preventing sagging.
Furthermore, dentures improve your ability to eat and speak, activities that are often taken for granted until teeth are lost. They also help to protect the remaining teeth in your mouth by evenly distributing the forces exerted when you chew.
Denture Care
Proper denture care is essential to maintain their appearance and extend their lifespan. This includes cleaning them daily to remove food particles and plaque, soaking them overnight to prevent them from drying out, and having them regularly checked and adjusted by your dentist or Clinical Dental Technician. For more information on how to care for your dentures, check out our Denture Care Guide.
Conclusion
Dentures offer a practical solution to missing teeth, improving your smile and overall oral health. They come in various types, each with its own benefits, and can last for several years with proper care. Whether you need full or partial dentures, your dental professional can guide you through the process, helping you to regain your confidence and show off your smile once again. To find out more about the options available to you, visit NHS or contact a CDT-led practice like Smiles Centre.
