A denture is a kind of dental prosthetic, and the two main types are partial and full dentures. A partial is custom-shaped to fit between any remaining teeth and complete the smile like the last piece of a puzzle, while a full denture restores an entire row at once by sitting on the gums. Each is designed using an impression of a patient’s bite in order to find the right fit, and then minor adjustments can be made to create a natural appearance that suits a patient’s face.
Like most things in dentistry, prevention is paramount. To keep your dentures in tip-top shape throughout the years, make sure to:
Always handle your dentures with care
Rinse your dentures with cool water after eating
Clean your mouth and your dentures daily
Use the right tools, like a soft-bristled toothbrush, when cleaning your dentures
Soak your dentures in a special cleaning solution at night
Maintain routine visits for checkups and adjustments
Avoid poor oral habits, like smoking