Dentistry is the known evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the soft and hard tissues of the jaw (mandible), the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and the adjacent.
An Interview with Dr. Elena Petrov on Dentures
Dr. Elena Petrov is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Dentures.
Q. What are dentures?
A. Dentures are prosthetic devices constructed to replace missing teeth, and which are supported by surrounding soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity.
Q. Why should I use a denture adhesive?
A. Denture Adhesives can increase the force that can be applied during biting and improve the ability of chewing hard to eat foods that you may have been avoiding, yet messy at times and uncomfortable. The other alternative is Dental Implants.
Q. What types of cosmetic dentures are possible?
A. There are two main types of cosmetic dentures –
• Acrylic - gum coloured plastic dentures.
• Cobalt Chromium - metal based dentures with gum coloured plastic.
• If there are teeth remaining then chromium cosmetic dentures are more stable. They cover less gum area and are stronger. If all teeth are missing then full cosmetic dentures are better in plastic and are lighter. The Denturist is best to decide which denture is most suitable for you. The base of a denture is called a plate and can be made of either acrylic or metal (vitallium). The teeth are normally made of acrylic and can be made to match your natural teeth. This is especially important in the case of partial dentures. The two types of acrylic we use are:
1. Hard pressed
2. Ivocap system
Q. How long do cosmetic dentures take to make?
A. Usually four to five visits. Two impressions visits and a bite registration. A trial visit and finally a fit visit
Q. What are the alternatives to cosmetic dentures?
A. If you have good strong teeth present either side of the gaps then you could have a fixed dental bridge. The other option is dental implants which are independent of other teeth. Implants can retain dentures, crowns, or bridge work.
Q. Are dentures uncomfortable or painful to wear?
A. During the first few weeks, dentures may feel awkward or bulky in your mouth, but this is normal and you will soon get used to wearing them until they feel natural. Dentures are usually not uncomfortable to wear once you have gone through the adjustment period.
Q. What’s the difference between conventional dentures and immediate dentures?
A. Conventional dentures are made and inserted after teeth have been removed and the tissues have healed. Healing may take several months. Immediate Dentures are inserted immediately after teeth have been removed. To do this, the denturist takes measurements and impressions of your mouth during a preliminary visit. An advantage of Immediate Dentures is that the wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bone and gums can shrink over time, especially during the first six months after teeth have been removed. When gums shrink, Immediate Dentures may require relining or even replacing to fit properly.
Q. How to contact Dr. Petrov if we have further questions?
A. Dr. Elena Petrov
Dr. Elena Petrov Dentistry Professional Corporation
3 Centre Street, Suite 208
Markham, Ontario L3P 3P9
Canada
Tel. 905-294-3852
Fax: 905-294-3852
Email: dr.petrov@bellnet.ca
www.petrovdental.com
