Even with the advances that are made in preventative dentistry, the loss of teeth, known as “edentulism,” continues to be a problem worldwide. In fact, approximately 10% of Americans are edentulous, with another 36% missing at least one or more teeth. In many of these situations, patients use dentures to replace their teeth and maintain functionality and beauty of their smile.
WHAT TYPES OF DENTURES ARE AVAILABLE?
There are two varieties of dentures in Reston available at Smiles by Myles, including partial dentures and full dentures. Individuals who have lost or extracted all of their teeth can restore their smile with full dentures, or “complete dentures.” Patients who have one or more teeth lost within the arch might turn to partial dentures, a removable restoration that uses the remaining teeth as support for an oral appliance with a metal framework. Both types of dentures are an economical way to replace teeth and are often covered in part or in full by dental insurance plans.
THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF DENTURES
Adapting to your new dentures and taking care of them while maintaining oral health is important. You can extend the longevity of the appliances and make sure that they function at their best. Here are just a few recommendations from our team at Smiles by Myles:
- Rinse your dentures off after every meal
- Brush dentures daily to remove food and plaque using mild dishwashing liquid or specialized denture cleaners
- Soak dentures overnight to give the bones and gums of the smile time to relax and breathe
- Use a special brush designed for cleaning dentures, or utilize a soft-bristled toothbrush if unavailable
- Consult your dentist if there are changes in the fit and function of your dentures
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT DENTURES?
Dr. Wayne Myles and his team in Reston, VA are pleased to provide patients with solutions for the smile, especially when edentulism is a concern. Call (571) 536-7885 to request a visit with our team of professionals at 11730 Plaza America Drive, Suite #110. At Smiles by Myles, we are committed to providing the best in dental care for those in and around the community seeking quality solutions for tooth loss.
