When people are considering dentures, it's common to focus on the end result: a beautiful smile and restored confidence. However, for many individuals, the path to achieving this goal can be fraught with challenges, especially if unhealthy gums are involved. Understanding how to navigate this journey is crucial for ensuring a successful transition to dentures.
Understanding the Impact of Unhealthy Gums
Before diving into the process of getting dentures, it's important to recognise that unhealthy gums can significantly impact your oral health. Gum disease, characterised by symptoms such as swelling, bleeding and redness, can lead to tooth loss and bone deterioration. This not only affects the ability to wear dentures comfortably but also impacts how well they fit and function.
Dentists often emphasise the importance of addressing gum health before proceeding with denture fittings. Neglecting this crucial step could result in poorly fitting dentures that cause discomfort and even exacerbate existing gum problems.
Steps Towards Healthy Gums
If you're dealing with gum issues, it’s essential to work closely with your dentist or periodontist to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. This plan may include professional cleanings, scaling and root planing, or other treatments that are aimed at reducing inflammation and promoting gum health.
Incorporating a diligent oral hygiene routine at home is equally important. This means brushing twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush, flossing regularly, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. These practices help control plaque buildup and reduce the risk of further gum complications.
The Role of Temporary Dentures
For patients with severe gum disease or significant tooth loss, temporary or immediate dentures may be recommended as an interim solution. These are fitted soon after tooth extraction and serve multiple purposes: they allow time for your gums to heal while maintaining aesthetics and some level of functionality.
Temporary dentures also provide an opportunity for you to adapt gradually to wearing dental prosthetics. During this period, regular follow-up appointments will be necessary to adjust the fit as your gums heal and change shape.
Transitioning to Permanent Dentures
Once your gums have sufficiently healed and stabilised — a process that may take several months — you can be fitted for permanent dentures. This stage involves careful measurements and impressions of your mouth to ensure a snug fit that complements both function and appearance.
Your dentist will work closely with you during this time to make any necessary adjustments. It's vital that you communicate any discomfort or concerns about fit so these can be promptly addressed.
Caring for Your New Dentures
Proper maintenance is key once you've received your permanent dentures. While they are engineered for durability, poor care can lead to unnecessary wear or damage. Clean them daily using a denture brush and non-abrasive cleanser that is designed specifically for dentures. Additionally, soaking them overnight in a suitable solution helps maintain their integrity.
Contact a dentist for more info.
Share21 January 2025
Hi! Welcome to my blog! My name is Kerry, and this blog is focused on dental fillings. It looks at the history of fillings, options for contemporary fillings, how to protect your fillings, when to replace them and much more. If you have ever had a cavity filled or if you are planning to get a tooth filled, you will find the information in this blog useful. I try to look at fillings from all angles, and I even plan to look at how to avoid fillings through proper dental hygiene and sealants. Thanks for reading, and I hope you find the info intellectually "filling."