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For centuries, people have used dentures to replace missing teeth. They are still a common restoration treatment to this day, and in some cases, they may be the only option available.

Dentures date back to 2500 B.C. They were found in Mexico using what is believed to be wolves' teeth. False teeth constructed from bone were discovered in an Egyptian tomb. Wooden dentures, first used in Japan, were around from the 16th to the 20th Centuries. In the 18th Century, dental professionals started working with ivory, bone, and human teeth. George Washington is known for wearing dentures made of ivory, gold, human teeth, and springs.

Fortunately for the modern denture wearer, technology has advanced from these ancient methods. Today's dentures are constructed from acrylic resin or porcelain. Acrylic dentures wear out faster, but they are less expensive and do not weigh as much as their porcelain counterparts.

There are both functional and aesthetic dimensions to dental appliances that replace natural teeth, and the following tips can help you choose those that are satisfactory in both respects.

What should you think about when picking out dentures?

Dentures have a reputation for being unnatural-looking or otherwise problematic. Over the last several decades, dental appliances have undergone significant technological advancements to address these issues. The following tips can help you choose dental appliances that make you proud to show them off and happy to smile about.

1. Identify your needs and priorities

There are many different types of restorative dental appliances available. The first question you have to answer is whether you need to replace all your teeth or if some of your natural teeth are to remain in your mouth. In the former case, you need a set of full dentures, while partials may be more advantageous in the latter case.

Once you determine what you need from your dentures, you then have to decide what you want from them. For example, if it is important to you that your dental appliances remain stable in your mouth, you may want implant-supported dentures. If you want your false teeth to look as natural as possible, you can choose esthetic denture teeth that are slightly translucent to better mimic the appearance of natural teeth. If you want the appliances held firmly in place while you are wearing them but still want to take them out for cleaning, snap-in dentures may make the most sense for you.

2. Determine how much you are willing to pay

Some types of dentures may be more expensive than others. Determine a budget for your dental appliances to determine how much you are willing to spend. You may not be able to afford those that offer everything you want. That is why it is important to figure out your priorities before making a budget so you know what you are willing to sacrifice to get what you want most.

3. Do not choose dentures that are perfectly straight

Part of what makes false teeth look artificial is their perfect alignment. Natural teeth have slight alignment disparities, even after treatment with orthodontics, as the teeth shift slightly toward their original positions. Appliances that include these slight imperfections look more like organic teeth.

4. Do not choose the same shade for the top and bottom

With natural teeth, the uppers and lowers are usually not the exact same shade. The lower teeth are typically about one to two shades darker. Therefore, when replacing the upper teeth, you can choose a shade that is lighter than the bottom. Just be sure not to go lighter than one or two shades, or it will not look natural.

FAQs

Do you have more questions about dentures? Here are answers to common ones.

Are dentures hard to clean?

Dentures are stored in a glass of clean water or cleaning solution overnight. This step keeps them disinfected and prevents drying out.

What are temporary dentures?

After your teeth are removed, your mouth needs several weeks to heal. Temporary dentures bridge the gap until you receive permanent dentures. You do not have to live without teeth during that time.

Conclusion

Dentures have been used for centuries to replace teeth and have improved significantly in that time. Your dentures can be explicitly molded to fit your mouth and look like natural teeth.

Choosing the right dental appliances is based on your individual priorities and preferences. You have many choices, including full, partial, implant-supported, and snap-on dentures. Talk to your dental professional if you have questions about the style of dentures that is right for you.

Request an appointment here: https://www.thedentistindenverco.com or call Gregg L Lage DDS, PC at 303-427-4552 for an appointment in our Denver office.