Dentures are held in place primarily by the suctioning effect of their close fit against the alveolar ridges — that's why it's so important that they are fitted properly. The upper denture also gets extra support from the large surface area of the roof of the mouth (palate), which generally makes it extremely stable.
Dentures consist of a gum-colored base made of plastic resin, which fits over the remaining alveolar (bone) ridge that formerly held the teeth. The prosthetic teeth projecting from the base are designed to look and function just like your natural teeth.
At first, wearing dentures may require some getting used to in terms of talking and eating, as the dentures become “balanced” in the space formerly occupied by the teeth. But over time, the muscles, nerves and ligaments of the mouth learn to work in new ways, which allows these functions to occur normally. Dentures also help support the facial skeleton and the soft tissues of the lips and cheeks, which can help create a more youthful appearance.
TYPES OF DENTURES
Immediate Dentures: Immediate dentures may also be called your temporary dentures. These are usually a temporary means of helping you transition to successful denture wearing.
The dentures which are placed immediately after tooth extraction won't fit as well as permanent dentures due to muscular readjustment required, as well as the natural shrinkage of gums, and needing time to heal. Permanent dentures are made when healing is complete . Immediate dentures, however, provide you with new teeth right away, and give you time to adjust.
Complete Full Dentures: After a period of time, permanent dentures that conform to your mouth with near-perfect accuracy can be fabricated. These are carefully crafted to look as much like your own natural teeth as possible, and are able to function properly in your mouth for a long time.
Implant-Supported Overdentures: To increase the stability of a lower or upper denture, it's possible for it to be securely anchored using two or more dental implants.. Many people find this option offers a great balance of comfort, functionality and value
What to Expect After You Get Dentures
If you've recently lost your teeth and received an immediate denture, it's normal to find some tissue shrinkage and bone loss occurring. Therefore, in several months you may find that your immediate dentures no longer fit well. You will have two choices at this point: You can have your immediate (temporary) dentures relined. This means that material is added under the denture's base to better conform to the new contours of your alveolar ridge. After a year of having immediate dentures , it will be time for a set of conventional full dentures, which will last longer and fit better. With proper care, dentures offer a functional, aesthetic and economical solution to the problem of tooth loss.