Improve quality of life with dentures

Although tooth loss is mostly age-related, it can also be caused by severe tooth decay or periodontitis. Tooth loss is far more than just an aesthetic problem: missing teeth impair chewing and biting, can cause jaw discomfort and can also lead to tooth displacement in the remaining teeth. Full dentures or partial dentures, which unlike fixed dentures, can be removed and reinserted, can help with all these problems and improve the quality of life for those affected.

What types of dentures are there?

Dentures differ primarily in the way they are anchored and the purpose for which they are used. The choice of the right denture depends on the condition of the jaw and the number of teeth to be replaced. Patients can choose between the following types of dentures:

1. the telescopic prosthesis is attached as a secondary crown to already existing crowns and can be pushed over the primary crown like a telescope. The precise interlocking between the primary crowns and the telescopic prosthesis ensures a very good hold, provides a natural appearance, is easy to clean and also offers a good chewing function.
2. the push-button prosthesis is one of the implant-supported prostheses and requires several implants for its attachment, which serve as retaining elements. This prosthesis can prevent possible bone loss in the upper jaw and also ensures a good hold, a natural look and a good chewing function.
3. bar prosthesis is also an implant-supported prosthesis, but unlike the push-button prosthesis, it requires a whole bar for its attachment, the counterpart of which is attached in the prosthesis itself. The bar prosthesis is pressed onto the bar anchorage in the implant with pressure and thus ensures an even better hold. The bar prosthesis offers similar advantages to the push-button prosthesis, but is significantly more expensive compared to the latter.
4. The combined attachment prosthesis is mainly used in the area of the molars to replace several or all teeth. For the use of an attachment prosthesis, however, it is necessary that there are stable marginal teeth next to the tooth gap to which the prosthesis can be attached. To ensure that the anchorage to the marginal teeth is strong enough, the marginal teeth are crowned. The attachment prosthesis is very suitable as a replacement for missing molars with existing abutment teeth. It is very inconspicuous, ensures a good chewing function as well as a good hold and is also very easy to care for.
5. The clasp denture is usually a partial denture for closing several adjacent gaps between teeth. It is made in the shape of a metal frame, fitted with artificial teeth and attached with metal clasps to existing anchor teeth for a precise fit. However, this relatively inexpensive dental prosthesis is also easily recognisable as a denture.

What materials are dentures made of?

The attachment, the denture base and the artificial tooth are usually made of different materials.

Metals, such as titanium, are usually used for the attachment of dentures. The base is often made of special pink plastic, the most common being polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

The artificial tooth can be made of different materials, such as ceramic, plastic, composite, zirconium oxide, non-precious metal alloys or titanium.

What do I need to be aware of with dentures?

At first, speaking with dentures feels unusual for many patients. To help the cheek muscles, lips and tongue get used to supporting the denture, it is recommended that you read aloud while wearing the denture.

In the first few days, the denture may also cause pressure marks to form in the mouth. If these do not disappear after some time, the fit of the denture should be checked again by your dentist.

Oral hygiene with dentures

Dentures are usually easy to care for, but require a high level of oral hygiene. Clean your dentures daily to remove debris and bacteria. Use a soft toothbrush or a special denture brush and mild soapy water or special denture cleaning tablets, such as corega tabs, to achieve excellent cleaning results. Denture cleaning tablets are particularly effective at removing plaque, bacteria and food debris and help to keep dentures clean and fresh.

How to use denture cleaning tablets correctly:

Rinse: Rinse your dentures thoroughly with clear water to remove coarse food debris.

Soak: Place your dentures in a glass or bowl of warm water. Then add a cleaning stick. The exact instructions for the amount of water and soaking time can be found on the product packaging. As a rule, you should leave the denture to soak for a certain amount of time (usually 3-5 minutes).

Cleaning: During the soaking process, the tabs become active and loosen plaque and impurities from the surface of your denture. After soaking, you can additionally brush the denture with a soft toothbrush. Make sure you clean all areas of the denture, including the spaces and teeth.

Rinse thoroughly: After you have cleaned the denture, rinse it thoroughly with clear water to remove all residues of the Corega-Tab and any dissolved deposits.

Dry: Dry the denture and place it in the mouth.

It is important to read and follow the instructions on the cleaning rod carefully as the exact recommendations may vary depending on the product version. Never use household cleaners, abrasive cleaners or vinegar to clean your denture!

What else you need to consider as a denture wearer

Avoid high temperatures: Never expose your dentures to high temperatures as they can become deformed. Do not use boiling water or leave them in the blazing sun.

Rinse thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse your dentures thoroughly to remove any residue of cleaning products that may cause irritation.

Storage: Store your dentures in water or a special storage solution to prevent drying out and deformation.

Regular check-ups: See your dentist regularly to make sure your dentures fit well and are in good condition. An ill-fitting denture can cause discomfort.