Dentures (Substitute to Lost Natural Teeth)

· Those in Mexicali, Mexico for 3 to 6 weeks.
· Those who don’t have natural teeth remaining.
· Those who only have some of their natural teeth remaining.
· Those who want to improve life quality and functions with a complete set of teeth.
· Those who want to restore their smile and increase confidence.

Missing teeth are not only unhealthy for your mouth. They can affect your overall health, daily life functions and self-esteem. One of the ways to restore a beautiful smile is by wearing dentures - removable artificial teeth that come in 2 forms, partial and complete. A good reason to get dentures is to prevent infections and gum disease as exposed gums can make it easy for food and bacteria to get stuck in them. Besides that, dentures can also help to hold the structure of the jaw. Remaining teeth may try to fill in the gap, and tooth shift can cause unstable mouth structure over time. Hence, restoring missing teeth with artificial ones is important to maintain good oral health.

1. Full Dentures
Full or complete dentures cover the entire mouth and are suitable for those who have lost all natural teeth.

2. Partial Dentures
Partial dentures cover only a segment of missing teeth when there are still other natural teeth present in the mouth.

The procedure to create dentures would usually take 4 to 5 appointments, or around 3 to 6 weeks, depending on your condition. If you opt for higher end dentures, then you may need more appointments. The process starts with taking impressions to create a framework for your new set of dentures. You would also get to try it on first before the final one is fitted in.

1. Consultation and examination will be done.
2. Impressions of your gums and teeth will be taken.
3. Bite registration will be done to measure how you bite.
4. When the dentures are almost done, a try-in will be done to assess if it’s suitable.
5. Finalized dentures will be fitted in and the aftercare instructions will be given by the dentist.

<Advantages>
· Long-lasting
· Looks natural
· Restores smile and increases confidence
· Helps with eating and speaking more comfortably
· Easily removed, which allows you to thoroughly clean them.

<Limitations>
· Dentures can wear down and stain with age. Adjustments may be needed from time to time.

If you can’t decide between getting dentures or dental implants, here are some differences to weigh in:

· Dentures last from 5 to 7 years and may wear down with age. Adjustments may be needed from time to time to monitor the fitting and your oral health. Dental implants are a permanent solution and easier to maintain.

· Dentures give you the freedom to remove them throughout the day, which makes it a better option for those with unhealthy or weak jaws. Dental implants cannot be removed.

· Dentures may slip while speaking or laughing, but dental implants will not slip.

It’s better to first consult with a prosthodontist to help you to decide the best treatment option depending on your condition.

· Visit the dentist regularly as set in your appointment to monitor your condition.
· Dentures should be rinsed thoroughly to remove food particles.
· Use non-abrasive denture toothpaste to ensure it will be long-lasting.
· Store it at night in water or a mild denture cleaner.
· Denture cleaner should be rinsed off thoroughly before placing the dentures back in your mouth.

Q1: When can I start eating normally after getting dentures?
A1: You may need a week or more to adapt to dentures. It will be uncomfortable at first, so to start out, eat foods that are easy to chew. The dentist will give you guidelines on the proper food to eat in caring for your dentures.

Q2: How long can it last?
A2: With good dental hygiene practice, it can last up to 5 to 7 years. But if any sign of irritation occur, please see the dentist immediately.

Q3: Will the procedure be painful?
A3: It may feel uncomfortable when taking the impressions or fitting dentures in. When you are first fitted for the new dentures, you may experience a minor irritation, but soon the mouth will adapt. Give it some time to be comfortable.

Q4: Can I get dentures after not having teeth for a long time?
A4: This depends on the condition of your jaw. If you’ve not had teeth for 20 years, it becomes harder to predict. Over time, the bone that holds the teeth can shrink when teeth are removed. The dentist or prosthodontist should examine your overall oral health to determine your suitability.

Q5: Can I sleep with dentures on?
A5: It is more preferable to have it removed and stored in water. This will enable your gums and bones to relax from the pressure of wearing dentures. Do not wear it for 24 hours without proper oral hygiene practice.

[Clinic Name] Hospital de la Familia
[Location] Mexicali, Mexico
[Nearest Stations / Attractions] The hospital is about 17 mins drive from Mexicali International Airport and 10 mins drive from Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mexicali
[Clinic Opening Time] Monday - Sunday (24 hrs)