False teeth, commonly referred to as dentures, are a substitute for lost or missing teeth. Dentists recommend false teeth only as a last resort when natural teeth cannot be saved. Dentures can be complete but are often partial as a dental professional tries to save as many natural teeth as possible. False teeth are custom made for the individual during a process that generally takes several office visits and a followup period for adjustments.
History
False teeth have been around for millennia. Around 700 B.C., the Etruscans used bone and ivory to construct artificial teeth. Gold bridgework was employed to secure the dentures. The making of false teeth declined thereafter until the 1800s, when bone and ivory were used to make dentures. Costly metals such as silver, gold, agate and mother of pearl were also used. Porcelain teeth made their appearance in 1774 when a French pharmacist named Duchateau and a dentist called Dubois de Chement made them. These false teeth became immensely popular in Europe and the United States. Dentures today remain part of many people's lives, but contemporary false teeth are generally constructed of plastic and ceramic materials.
Types
Most dentures are labeled as partial or complete. Partial dentures use metal frames with clasps to hold dentures in position. These clasps fit around remaining natural teeth. Among partial dentures are two types that are referred to as "removable" and "fixed." True to their names, removable dentures can be taken out while fixed cannot (they are cemented into place). Complete dentures are often called "plates." These must fit over the whole jaw (upper or lower). These dentures lie atop the gums. Custom making complete dentures is a long process that requires about five appointments and one to two months for completion.
Procedure
Partial dentures require the preservation of as many natural teeth as possible, which will be shaped to adapt to the denture being made. After the shaping, which usually involves filing down teeth, the dentist will cover remaining teeth with copings (metal castings). For complete dentures, remaining teeth will be removed. After the patient's gums have healed, impressions of the mouth will be made and the bite noted. A technician will use the impressions and information from the dentist to craft the plate or plates. A fitting then occurs in which the dentist has the patient try out the false teeth. At this point the dentist notes adjustments that need to be made, after which the final dentures will be made.
Adaptation
All denture wearers experience a period of adaptation. Not only will new wearers have to get accustomed to having false teeth, they will have to learn to speak and eat normally with them in place. While adjusting to dentures, the patient needs to keep the dentist informed of any problems with clicking, slipping or gum irritation. It might be necessary for additional adjustments.
Care
Treat your dentures with care because they are breakable and can be damaged by inadequate care. Clean your false teeth daily with products specifically made for dentures. Removable dentures should never be allowed to dry out. Store dentures in a few inches of water or liquid cleaner when they are not being worn. Brush false teeth with a soft toothbrush following meals as you would with natural teeth. Visit your dentist periodically as part of your care routine.
