You are about to join the millions of people in this country who wear dentures. While you may have some anxiety and worry, there really are no major problems that you are likely to encounter. there will be some minor annoyances and adjustments, but your new dentures can provide you with a healthier mouth and probably a better appearance.

Your new teeth will be as life-like as modern dentistry know how to make them. The teeth used have been selected to match the shape, color and size of your natural teeth. Occasionally, some changes are made to help improve your appearance. Incidentally, you shouldn't look forward to having very white teeth. The goal is a natural look, and few people have natural teeth that are sparkling white.

When your new dentures are in place, your first impression will be that you have quite a mouthful. You may feel that your face looks "full," and the teeth may actually seem to be longer than they should. Your lips might seem out of place and your tongue will probably feel crowded. In addition, your salivary glands will seem to be working overtime, and you'll notice the increased saliva.

You'll find that your mouth muscles are good at adapting and they will adjust to the new surroundings. You'll quickly learn the trick of controlling your dentures.

Although hard food, such as apples or corn on the cob, may pose a bit more of a challenge, there is something you can do to help. When you bite with natural teeth, you have a tendency to pull forward. With your dentures, develop the habit of pushing back a little as you bite, especially with something like corn on the cob. This helps produce the leverage needed to keep your dentures in place.

Just as stains and tartar can build up on natural teeth, so can they on dentures. Clean your dentures every day to keep them natural looking and odor-free. Your dentist will recommend the best method for cleaning them based on his experience and the materials used in making your denture. There are a few safety rules. When handling your dentures be sure to do so over water to cushion the fall if you should drop them. When not wearing your dentures, keep them immersed in water to prevent them from drying out.

Even though you no longer have teeth, you still have gums. Your gums will begin to recede and while this is normal, it will become necessary for the doctor to reline your denture. The only one qualified to do this is your dentist. Don't attempt the job yourself with materials commercially available or you run the risk of seriously damaging your gum ridges and throwing your bite out of alignment.

A Partial Denture Replaces Missing Teeth

A partial denture is made up of one or more porcelain or plastic replacement teeth. Gum colored plastic attaches these teeth to a metal framework. The partial is removable. It is held in your mouth with either metal clasps or precision attachments (special clasps made to fit into crowns).

Your dentist can make sure your partial fits properly. Follow the instructions that your dentist gives you to help your mouth adjust. This may take a few weeks.

Several visits to the dentist may be needed to be sure the partial fits properly. Your partial is custom-made for your mouth. Even so, it may feel awkward for the first few weeks while your mouth gets used to it.

• At first, eat soft foods and foods that have been cut into small pieces. Once you're used to eating with the partial, you can eat almost anything you like. However, avoid very sticky or hard foods.
• Practice reading out loud until you can talk comfortably with the partial in place.
• Practice putting the partial in and taking it out in front of a mirror. Never force it or bite down to try to get it into place.

• Rinse your partial after eating to remove bits of food. Brush at least once daily.
• Brush your partial over a folded towel or sink full of water. That way, it won't be damaged if you drop it.
• Use a soft denture brush and mild liquid soap or denture toothpaste. Regular toothpaste is too abrasive. Never use bleach.
• Clean carefully around clasps to be sure you remove all bacteria and food. Scrub your partial gently to avoid damaging it.
• A few times a week, soak it in denture cleaner to help prevent staining and odor.

• Remove your partial and brush your teeth after each meal. Also brush your tongue.
• Floss between your teeth at least once a day.
• See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.