Able to effectively restore a patient’s smiling, speaking, and chewing function, partial and full dentures have been a reliable tooth-replacement option for countless Napoleon Smiles patients. If you’re missing one or more teeth and are considering a restorative device, we’d be happy to discuss whether dentures may be right for you!

What are dentures made from and how long do they typically last?

Most denture variations are made from acrylic resin or porcelain materials, and they last, on average, approximately 10 years. Some patients even report that their denture(s) are effective for 15 to 20 years!

What’s the difference between full and partial dentures?

Full dentures replace all of a patient’s natural teeth and are kept in place by suction or denture paste while partial dentures are used when one or a few teeth are missing and are held in position by one or more easily-removed clasps that attach to a patient’s natural teeth. Partial dentures can also be used when the teeth adjacent to a missing tooth are not healthy enough to hold a dental bridge in place.

How do you clean dentures?

Like natural teeth, dentures require twice-daily cleaning to avoid bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup, which can lead to staining, bad breath, and gum-related problems. It’s important to keep in mind that dentures that aren’t thoroughly cleaned can cause the development of cavities in surrounding natural teeth, as well.

To clean them, use warm water, a mild soap or denture-cleaning paste, and a soft-bristle toothbrush to gently scrub away buildup. Dentures should have all surfaces cleaned, including any attachment areas, before being rinsed thoroughly with warm water.

Interested in learning more about dentures and whether these prosthetic devices may be right for you? Call our friendly team today!