Even the sharpest blade will rust one day, and the same goes for our teeth. Missing teeth have long been a significant oral health issue for seniors. Don't want to live on congee and soft meals forever? Let Beame help you understand more about dentures!
The Importance of Dentures
Food is Heaven: Every Tooth Matters
Every tooth plays an indispensable role in both digestion and facial structure. Incisors act as the front-line cutters for food while serving as the central aesthetic anchors of your smile. Flanking them are the canines (or eye teeth), which tear food and provide vital structural support for the lips. Finally, the premolars and molars at the back crush and grind food, facilitating proper digestion and nutrient absorption.
The Danger of One-Sided Chewing
Teeth are evenly distributed on both sides. Those with missing teeth often compensate by chewing on one side only. This can lead to excessive wear and tear on the active side and may even cause overdevelopment of the jaw muscles on one side, resulting in an asymmetrical "uneven face" that affects your appearance.
Missing Gaps: A Breeding Ground for Plaque
Gaps left by missing teeth easily trap food debris, creating an ideal environment for dental plaque to thrive. This accumulation first attacks the gums, turning the area into a bacterial breeding ground that triggers periodontal disease. Left unchecked, this inflammation compromises neighboring teeth and significantly increases the risk of new cavities.
Denture Knowledge: Removable vs. Fixed
| Feature | Removable Dentures | Fixed Dentures |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Denture Plates | Dental Bridges, Implants |
| Common Materials | Resin, Metal, Acrylic | Resin, Metal, Ceramic |
| Durability | Usually 3–5 years (requires replacement as oral muscles change) | 10+ years; highly stable |
| Characteristics | Non-invasive, no surgery required; can be removed for cleaning | Requires tooth shaving or invasive surgery; high realism |
| Sensation | High foreign body sensation | Low foreign body sensation |
| Price | Relatively low | Relatively high |
Removable Dentures: Plates
Removable plates are suitable for those with partial or full tooth loss. Users can put them in and take them out at will, making cleaning convenient. Their affordability makes them a popular choice among seniors. Traditional plates use a vacuum-like pressure to stay fixed to the soft tissues of the mouth, often utilizing metal clasps hooked onto side teeth for stability.
Fixed Dentures: Dental Bridges
A dental bridge works by using two natural teeth on either side as "pillars" to support the artificial tooth in the middle. Consequently, at least three units must be made at once. Installation requires shaving down the healthy "pillar" teeth so the bridge can be fitted over them like a cap and secured with special dental adhesive. Bridges are a more economical fixed option and don't require surgery, though they lack natural gaps between the teeth.
Fixed Dentures: Dental Implants
Traditional implantation involves going deep into the gums and jawbone, drilling a hole at the optimal angle to insert a metal post, and suturing the wound. After 3–6 months, a second procedure uncovers the implant to attach the final denture.
No Fear of Surgery: Beame Minimally Invasive Implants
Beame's minimally invasive implants are safer and faster than traditional methods, with plans designed by a professional dental team. The implants are made of pure titanium or titanium alloys, which are highly biocompatible and allow for painless healing in a short time. You can choose from various brands based on your budget and enjoy 12-month credit card interest-free installments!
4 Essentials After Getting Dentures
- Maintenance: Whether you choose removable or fixed, you must maintain and care for your dental prosthesis diligently.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Dentures are generally less sturdy than natural teeth. Avoid chewing excessively hard foods or "testing" the strength of your dentures.
- Follow-ups: After any dental procedure, follow the doctor's instructions, attend follow-up appointments, and take any prescribed medication on time.
- Hygiene: Maintain excellent oral hygiene. For removable plates, use specialized denture cleaners. For fixed dentures, get regular professional scaling and use floss threaders to clean every corner.
FAQs
Is there any preparation before implantation, such as scaling?
Everyone's dental condition is different. Before starting, we perform a CT scan and consultation. You can decide whether to proceed after hearing the quote and details.
Will I be charged if I decline the quote after the CT scan?
No! You will not be charged any fees until actual services have begun.