What’s a Dental Bridge and Do I need One?

Posted on June 26, 2019 by Classic Denture Center

Tanya Poleon, your trusted denturist in Portland OR believes that being knowledgeable about your oral health is a key component to your overall health. It’s how you take control over how your mouth looks and feels. Without that control, you might just miss out on an important factor in keeping your mouth at its best!

To continue that tradition, she felt that now is a good time to share with you the basic information regarding a dental bridge.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A bridge is a dental restoration that fills the space where one or more teeth are missing. The bridge restores your bite and helps keep the natural shape of your face.

Since a missing tooth is a serious matter, bridges are highly necessary to ensure your teeth can work together in the way they need to. When you lose a tooth, the nearby teeth may tilt or drift into the empty space. The teeth in the opposite jaw may also shift up or down toward the space. This can affect your bite and place more stress on your teeth and jaw joints, possibly causing pain.

It is also important to note that teeth that have tipped or drifted are more difficult to clean. This puts them at a higher risk for tooth decay and gum disease.

When a tooth is missing, the bone may shrink. If that happens, it may change the way the jawbone supports the lips and cheeks. Over time, this can make your face look different.

How is a Bridge Placed?

Many people don’t realize it, but placing a bridge usually takes more than one dental visit. Below are the typical steps for placing your new dental bridge:

On your first visit, your dentist prepares the teeth on either side of the gap. The bridge will later be attached to these teeth.
Your dentist then takes an impression of your teeth and the space, and sends the impression to a dental laboratory.
The technicians at the lab make the bridge.
Your dentist will place a temporary bridge to protect your exposed teeth while you are waiting for the permanent one.
The bridge is then fixed, or cemented, to the prepared teeth.
This type of bridge is permanent and cannot be taken out of your mouth without a dentist’s help.
During one or more follow-up visits, the bridge is fitted, adjusted, and cemented in place.

What if I am missing several teeth?

Dental implants may be used to support a bridge when several teeth are missing. Implants are posts that are surgically placed into the jaw. The implants fuse to the jawbone to act as a base for the bridge. A key benefit of implants is that they don’t need support from the surrounding teeth.

Because surgery is required, candidates for dental implants should have good general health and enough bone to support an implant.

How do I care for my bridge?

A bridge can lose its support if the surrounding teeth or jawbone holding the bridge are damaged by dental disease.

Follow these tips for good oral health:

Brush twice a day and floss or use another between-the-teeth cleaner.
Brushing and cleaning between the teeth helps remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria.
Always clean between your teeth and under the bridge.
There are many kinds of flossers, picks and little brushes – ask your dentist what type will work well with your bridge.

It is very important to see your dentist regularly for exams and professional cleaning.

Placing a bridge is an expensive dental procedure. At Classic Denture Center we can fabricate you a partial or a flipper to substitute your missing tooth/teeth at a price that will make you smile! Contact your trusted denturist in Portland OR today to learn more!

Together We Can Help Prevent Tooth Decay

Posted on May 27, 2019 by Classic Denture Center

We have all heard it takes a village to raise a child, right? And to be honest, this is such an important part of our lives… But what about the idea that it takes an army to raise and maintain optimal oral hygiene? The constant 24-hour, 7-days-a-week battle against bacteria and inflammation in the oral cavity is a universal issue for all humans, children and adults alike. Your dental professionals, including your denturists in Portland OR at Classic Denture Center, are at the forefront of this struggle each and every day… Constantly learning and evolving to find new ways to keep your mouth healthy and beautiful.

Even in cases where your teeth look healthy, acids in everyday foods and drinks can still put enamel at risk and potentially cause enamel erosion. It’s true! You may not feel it or see it, but you could be doing damage to your teeth without even knowing it.

What is Enamel Erosion?

Enamel erosion from acids is a form of tooth wear that is caused by acid softening the surface of the tooth enamel. When tooth enamel (the tooth’s hard surface) is exposed to acids from certain everyday foods or drinks, it can temporarily soften and lose some of its mineral content. When the enamel is softened and you brush your teeth, it can be worn away more easily. Foods and drinks with a high acid content, such as fruit and fruit juices, sparkling water with lemon, salad dressing, and wine, may erode your tooth enamel.

Effects of pH

Evidence-based approaches are enabling dental professionals to shift their focus from identifying disease process outcomes to managing and controlling risk factors for infection. Among these risk factors are low (acidic) pH levels contributing to tooth demineralization and susceptibility. A more acidic oral environment is responsible for shifting the balance of oral biofilm from one supporting health to one in which the harmful bacteria implicated in destructive tooth decay and periodontal diseases are more prominent.

Advice for Caring for Your Teeth

Oral health maintenance and prevention begins with a strong mechanical and chemical homelier regime. All dental professionals are taught about how it takes a combination of mechanical and chemical tools to help our patients achieve optimal oral health. Inflammation, decay, erosion, and sensitivity can all be symptoms you are suffering from growing plaque bacteria.

Here at Classic Denture Center, we are your denturists in Portland OR fighting on the frontlines every single day for your oral health. We care for our patients and always give to them a full scope of recommendations for home care. Contact us today to learn more about your oral health and what can be done to improve it.

Sleep Apnea: A Hidden Disorder

Posted on April 30, 2019 by Classic Denture Center

When you think about sleep apnea, who comes to mind?

Many people misguidedly think that sleep apnea only afflicts men over the age of 50 who are overweight. While these things do factor into an increased risk for sleep apnea, you might be surprised to hear that so much more goes into it.

Today, your denturist in Portland OR would like to clear the air a bit about who suffers from sleep apnea and how serious this condition is.

A person who suffers from sleep apnea could be:

Male or Female
In any physical condition
Young, middle-aged, mature adult, or elderly

As a matter of fact, an estimated 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, and a staggering 80% of these cases are undiagnosed. This means that you could be struggling with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea and not even realize it. It is also important to note that between 1% and 4% of all children, including infants, are affected.

So what is sleep apnea and why is it a concern?

This is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. If you snore loudly and feel tired even after a full night’s sleep, you might have sleep apnea. The main type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where the throat muscles relax and disrupt the normal breathing pattern.

Sleep apnea can be the cause of many other secondary issues because the afflicted cannot obtain restful sleep.

Disease manifestations in the absence of appropriate, quality sleep can include:

Depression and anxiety
Dementia
Hypertension
Congestive heart failure
Nighttime heart attacks
Obesity
Memory loss
Atrial fibrillation
Impotence
Metabolic syndrome
Lack of energy
Diabetes
Premature death

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

The signs and symptoms of obstructive and central sleep apneas overlap, sometimes making it difficult to determine which type you have.

The most common signs and symptoms of obstructive and central sleep apneas include:

Loud snoring
Episodes in which you stop breathing during sleep – which would be reported by another person
Gasping for air during sleep
Awakening with a dry mouth
Morning headache
Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
Difficulty paying attention while awake
Irritability

How is sleep apnea diagnosed?

Sleep breathing disorders must be diagnosed by a physician, and will typically begin with a sleep study. Once a diagnosis has been rendered, the physician can refer the patient to a qualified dentist who knows how to create the appropriate sleep device. Denturists and dentists work together in making different devices to treat obstructive sleep apnea.

If you think you or someone you love think you may be suffering from sleep apnea, time is of the essence! You never know, you could be one of the 80% of people with this disorder who are unaware they have it.

If you have any questions about sleep apnea or the devices you may need, please don’t hesitate to contact your denturist in Portland OR. Tanya Poleon understands the ins and outs of sleep apnea and can help you better understand various devices that treat the illness.

Diabetes and Your Oral Health: What You NEED to Know

Posted on March 27, 2019 by Classic Denture Center

Did you know that having Diabetes can cause a variety of problems with your teeth and gums, as well as your overall health? It’s true! You might not realize it, but being diagnosed with this disease may have detrimental effects on a variety of systems within your body – including your oral health.

Today your denturist in Portland OR wants to help educate you on some specific problems you may encounter if you have received this troubling diagnosis.

If you have diabetes, some of the most common oral health problems you might encounter are:

Gum disease
Thrush (a fungal infection)
Slow healing after surgery

***************************************************************************************

Gum Disease and Diabetes

Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is when the tissues that hold your teeth in place become irritated and inflamed. If the disease is severe, it can destroy tissue and bone. This can lead to tooth loss. Young adults with diabetes are about twice as likely to get gum disease. In older adults with diabetes, gum disease is often more frequent and more severe, especially if they smoke tobacco.

People with diabetes who have poor blood sugar control are more likely to lose teeth than those who have good control. Research also suggests that treating gum disease may help improve blood sugar control and overall health.

Eating a well-balanced diet, practicing good oral care at home, and seeing your dentist regularly for checkups can help you to keep your blood sugar in the healthy range.

People with gum disease may not see any symptoms. However, if you notice any of the following, see your dentist immediately:

Gums that bleed easily
Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
Pus between the teeth and gums when the gums are pressed
Constant bad breath or bad taste
Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
A change in the fit of partial dentures

Living with Diabetes and the Risk of Thrush.

Thrush is a fungal infection that happens more often in people with diabetes. Possible signs and symptoms include:

White or red patches in your mouth that may be sore and may turn into open sores
It may affect your tongue and cause a painful, burning sensation, which can dull your sense of taste and make it difficult to swallow

Regular oral health habits can help you avoid problems with thrush. If needed, your dentist can prescribe medicine to treat it.

Slower Healing for People Suffering from Diabetes.

If you have diabetes, it may take your body longer to heal after dental work or other bodily trauma. This includes having a tooth pulled or any other oral surgery. Be sure your dentist is aware that you have diabetes when planning your treatment.

Diabetes and Oral Care: What You Should Do

If you keep your teeth clean, you are less likely to get tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral infections. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes each time. This will remove the sticky film of bacteria on teeth that can lead to gum disease. Also, clean once a day between your teeth with floss or another between-the-teeth cleaner.

Your dentist may suggest using a special mouth rinse and/or toothpaste to control gum inflammation. He or she also may recommend rinsing with a fluoride mouth rinse or applying fluoride at home and in the dental office to help prevent tooth decay.

Before any dental treatment, be sure to let your dentist know:

That you have diabetes
About your blood sugar level
Any recent problems with infections
Changes in your medical history
The names of all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking and any change in the medications you use

Eat before you go to the dentist so that your blood sugar level is in a normal range and your diabetes medicine is already in your system. If you take insulin, try to schedule a morning visit after you have eaten breakfast or discuss the best strategy when you make your appointment.

If you need some type of dental surgery, it may affect what you can eat. Your dentist should talk to your doctor about the best way for you to control your diabetes in this case.

Practice good oral care at home, follow your doctor’s instructions for foods and medicines, and schedule regular dental checkups for a healthy smile.

These are just a few ways that diabetes can impact your oral health, and taking the above steps as a precaution can greatly reduce your chances of falling victim to these conditions. Your trusted denturist in Portland OR is here to help educate you on keeping your mouth up to par so you and those around you can enjoy that beautiful smile for years to come!

Contact Tanya Poleon today to schedule your consultation or to discuss any of your denture related concerns.

The Warning Signs, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Periodontal Disease

Posted on February 21, 2019 by Classic Denture Center

Periodontal disease is an infection and inflammation that affects the tissues and bone that support your teeth. Today your denturist in Portland OR wants to share some information about this medical condition and share some warning signs to watch for.

When your gums are healthy, your gum tissues tightly hug each of your teeth. When you have gum disease, your gums pull away from your teeth. As the gum disease gets worse, the tissues and bones that support your teeth become damaged. Over time, your teeth may need to be removed.

Treating Periodontal Disease in the Early Stages is Very Important and Can Help Prevent Tooth Loss.

Periodontal disease has been linked to other diseases. Gum disease is common among people with either diabetes or heart disease. Strokes and high stress also may be related to periodontal disease.

It is important to talk to your dentist about medications you may be taking or health problems you may have. Together, you can work out an oral care plan for your best oral and overall health.

Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease

Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
Gums that are red, swollen, puffy or tender
Gums that no longer tightly hug your teeth
Feeling that your teeth are loose
Bad breath that doesn’t go away
A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
A change in the way your partial dentures fit

You may notice one or more of these warning signs, or you may not have any signs of gum disease at all. This is why it is important to see your dentist regularly. Treatment of periodontal disease is most successful when it is caught early.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

Plaque is a sticky film that is always on your teeth. Bacteria that live in the plaque can cause your body to react and make your gums become red, puffy and swollen. Plaque can harden when it is left on your teeth and gums. Hardened plaque is also called tartar. Gums that are red, puffy, and swollen also start to pull away from your teeth. Spaces called pockets start to form between your gums and teeth. These pockets give bacteria a place to collect and grow.

The bacteria in your oral pockets will cause your gum condition to get worse. These bacteria produce toxins, which causes your body to break down the gum tissues and bone around your teeth.

Are You at Risk?

Anyone can get periodontal disease, but there are other factors that can raise your risk of getting it.

Not taking care of your teeth and gums. Be sure you brush 2 times a day, every day, and for 2 minutes each time. Also, please remember to clean between your teeth every day.
Using tobacco of any kind. You are more likely to have gum disease if you smoke, chew, or dip tobacco.
Diseases that affect the whole body, such as diabetes and HIV infection lower your body’s resistance to infection, including periodontal disease.
Many medications, such as those to treat blood pressure or steroids, can affect your gums. A common side effect is dry mouth. This can increase your risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease. Tell your dentist about all the medications you take and any changes in your health.
Teens, pregnant women, and those taking birth control pills have changes in hormone levels. These changes can cause gums to become more sensitive to plaque bacteria.
Genes may play a role. If your parents wear dentures or you have a family history of tooth loss, be extra alert for changes to your gums.
The bacteria that cause gum disease may be passed from parents to children and between partners through saliva.

Treating Periodontal Disease

Your gum disease treatment will depend on factors such as your personal health history and the stage of your periodontal disease.

All dentists are trained to detect and treat gum disease. That said, in some cases, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist – a dentist who specializes in the treatment of gum disease.

If the gum disease is caught early enough (when it is gingivitis), you may simply need a professional cleaning. Your dental team can also give you advice for improving your daily oral hygiene.

A professional cleaning is not enough if your gum disease is severe. Usually, a special deep cleaning called scaling and root planing is needed. Scaling and root planing is sometimes called “deep cleaning” or “periodontal cleaning.”

If you have any questions about periodontal disease or suspect you may be developing it, your denturist in Portland OR recommends that you see your dentist right away.

Dentures and Dry Mouth – Causes and Finding Relief

Posted on January 16, 2019 by Classic Denture Center

When you choose Classic Denture Center in Portland OR, you can be certain you are in good hands. Your new dentures will be handcrafted to fit your oral and confidence needs, giving you a comfortable and beautiful smile each and every day.

Once you take your new dentures home, it will be up to you to keep them looking and functioning great for as many years as possible. One of the factors for good retention of complete dentures is good coats of healthy saliva in the mouth. That said, we see many patients who have a dry mouth condition called xerostomia, often caused by a lack of saliva.

The function of your saliva is to coat and moisten the tissue inside your mouth. When this tissue gets too dry, it can become irritated, causing soreness and sometimes even infections. Without good saliva flow to keep your mouth clean, tooth decay and gum disease can be much more common.

Dry mouth can lead to problems such as cavities and bad breath, but also lead to:

Trouble with tasting, swallowing, chewing or speaking
Burning feeling in your mouth
Dryness in your throat
Cracked lips
Dry and rough tongue

Another problem we see with patients suffering from dry mouth is less comfort when wearing full dentures. This happens because the thin film of saliva necessary to help the dentures hold on well to oral tissue is simply not present.

Causes of Dry Mouth

The most common precursor to dry mouth is taking medications to treat other problems. Many prescriptions (over 400) and over-the-counter medications list dry mouth as a side effect.

Some of these include:

Medicines for allergies, colds and high blood pressure
Painkillers
Antidepressants

In order to combat this issue, it is important to read the drug inserts that come with your medications. In the case where dry mouth is listed as a side effect, it is a good idea to let your dentist, denturist, hygienist or physician know so you can discuss your options. You may be able to take a different medication and avoid xerostomia all together.

Other than medication, dry mouth has also been known to be caused by other factors, including:

Radiation treatment for head and neck cancers
Salivary gland disease (such as Sjogren syndrome)
Emotional stress
Chemotherapy

Dry Mouth Relief

There are many things you can do to improve your xerostomia, including something as simple as drinking more fluids.

Other ways to manage dry mouth include:

Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking sugar-free hard candy to increase saliva flow
Sipping water with meals to moisten dry food
Sucking on ice chips during the day
Keeping the air moist with a humidifier at your bedside or another place in your home
Using over-the-counter saliva tablets to increase saliva flow
Applying a lanolin-based ointment to dry lips
Sipping water often
Using alcohol-free mouthwash
Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, tobacco and carbonated drinks

One of the most important things you can do if you are suffering from dry mouth is to make sure to see your dentist or denturist regularly, and always let them know about any medicines you may be taking and any other health-related issues.

Classic Denture Center in Portland Oregon is owned and operated by Tanya Poleon L.D. Tanya is highly dedicated to giving you comfort and confidence through your smile and can help you achieve all of your denture related goals. Contact us for help with your dentures today!

Classic Denture Center in Portland OR offers Denture Repair Services

Posted on December 12, 2018 by Classic Denture Center

We are so happy that you chose to invest in your new smile with us! We know that if dentures are right for you, they can change your life for the better, and we love being a part of that process!

Now that you have received your new dentures, know that it is completely normal to need one (or more) follow-up appointments to have things adjusted and checked. This is because every mouth is different, and each one will adapt differently. Your dentures at Classic Denture Center are designed to be as unique as you are so that they will fit you perfectly and lead to a totally comfortable new smile.

If you realize that you are not adjusting to your new dentures as quickly as you should, or if you notice something that needs to be repaired, please contact us as soon as possible. It is immensely important that you never try to make these repairs or adjustments yourself because it could lead to costly or irreparable damage. We also stress how important it is that you never bend any part of the metal attachments, as it could weaken the metal and shorten the life of your dentures.

In order to keep your dentures comfortable and in working order for as long as possible, here are a few tips to help you avoid unnecessary denture repair in Portland OR:

Handle your dentures carefully: Though we do design your dentures to stand up to your lifestyle, they can break if you drop them. Try to keep a firm grip on them at all times, and even put a towel in the sink when cleaning to soften the landing if they fall.

Keep them clean: Taking a few simple steps will keep your dentures sparkly clean in both the long term and the short term. Keep them at their best by rinsing them thoroughly in warm water after each meal and brushing them at least twice a day. Remember that using a regular toothbrush and toothpaste can leave microscopic scratches on your dentures, leading to build up of pesky plaque. Be sure to use your denturist-approved cleaning methods.

Make sure they don’t dry out: Remove your dentures when you go to bed and leave them soaking in water overnight. This will give both your mouth and your dentures a break.

Avoid wrapping them in a paper towel: We know this is an easy trick that many denture wearers use often. That said, we suggest avoiding this if possible. Many dentures get lost or thrown away due to this practice! Your dentures are a part of who you are, so a safer storage option is the way to go.

As always, we recommend that you visit Denturist Tanya Poleon, L.D. regularly to catch any issues that could pop up. Catching things early can make all the difference in the life of your denture and in your quality of life. Denture repair in Portland OR can seem daunting but know we are here for you every step of the way.

The Amazing Benefits of Removable Partial Dentures

Posted on November 14, 2018 by Classic Denture Center

At Classic Denture Center, we are your premier provider of dentures and partial removable dentures in Portland Oregon. Dr. Tanya Poleon strives to give you back your efficiency and confidence through fixtures that are composed of the strongest and highest quality materials on the market. She utilizes the newest technology to ensure a perfect fit, so you can be proud of your new smile.

From dentures to partials, your denturist can help you decide which of our services will make the most profound impact on your life. Sometimes our patients come into our office with missing teeth. These patients already know from experience that living with this can be emotionally and physically draining. Not only have they had to adapt for eating their favorite foods, but their social interactions have also become much more challenging because of a lowered self-confidence. In many cases, these patients tell us that they avoid socializing altogether because they are so worried about showing their mouth to the world.

What are the physical impacts of tooth loss?

When a tooth is lost in your mouth, the teeth around it may begin to tilt and drift into the empty space. The teeth below or above may also begin to shift downwards or upwards towards the space. This shifting around can affect your bite and cause more stress to be placed on your remaining teeth and jaws. One major implication can also be the development of temporomandibular disorder, causing further pain and discomfort with your mouth.

These physical changes are exactly why we always recommend replacing missing teeth.

When we see a patient missing one or more teeth, we will often suggest using a removable partial denture to uphold the integrity of their mouth, jaw, and overall wellbeing.

Why use removable partial dentures?

Removable partial dentures offer a variety of benefits to our patients suffering from tooth loss. Not only can they make it much easier to chew food, but they can also help you speak more clearly and support your cheeks and lips so your face is not sagging.

Here are a few more benefits of using removable partial dentures to replace missing teeth:

They can help you look younger
They can make it easier for you to chew food
They can give you a smile that you are proud of
They can be easily put in and taken out for your convenience
They are affordable

What are removable partial dentures composed of?

Your new removable partial dentures typically are constructed with replacement teeth fixed to a plastic base that matches the color of your gums. In some cases, this plastic base may cover a metal framework. These partial dentures will often have some form of a clasp that attaches to your natural teeth. This holds the denture in place. Your dentist or denturist may also recommend crowns on some of your natural teeth to help improve the way your removable partial denture fits your mouth.

Types of partial dentures:

1. Acrylic partial dentures

2. Metal frame partial dentures

3. Flexible (Valplast, Duraflex, etc…) partial dentures

Your denturist will know which kind of removable partial denture is right for you.

A few tips from your denturist regarding adjusting to your new dentures:

Begin by eating soft foods cut into small pieces
Chew on both sides of the mouth to keep the pressure even
Do not eat very sticky or hard foods, and do not chew gum
If you find that some words are hard to say at first, try reading out loud. With time and practice, you should be able to speak well.

If you have missing teeth, it is a good idea to set up a consultation with your local denturist to see if removable partial dentures in Portland OR might be right for you. Once you are fitted for them, your denturist will make follow-up appointments to look for pressure points or sore spots. Dr. Poleon will make adjustments so your denture fits comfortably. Once it’s perfect, you can begin to experience the confidence and happiness of a bright new smile.

Ten Tips to Help You Adjust to Your New Dentures

Posted on October 9, 2018 by Classic Denture Center

If you are new to wearing dentures and are concerned that you aren’t completely adjusted to wearing them immediately… You aren’t alone.

In general, it can actually take around 30 days to get used to wearing them.

It might be difficult to be patient during this time, but your denturist in Portland Oregon suggests relaxing and allowing yourself to get used to them before worrying. As you adjust, you will be learning to eat and speak again, which can definitely be a challenge.

As uncomfortable as it might be, you should probably expect some soreness at first. This is especially true if you have had some tooth extractions. These procedures inflame your gums and need time to heal.

Eating soft foods and rinsing with warm salt water will help reduce your pain and allow your mouth a chance to get used to the new situation.

Below you will find 10 denture scenarios, and some suggestions to help you overcome and adjust to them.

1. Patience. Learning to wear a denture takes time, and your mouth needs to heal and adjust. It’s important to follow your denturist’s advice and not become discouraged because everyone who gets new dentures experiences this.

2. Lowers. If you have a complete lower denture, you should know that it usually takes far longer to master than a complete upper one. Remember to take your time and try not to worry when your tongue feels strange or restricted. It will soon accustom itself to the new position. Practice makes perfect!

3. Chewing. Eating only soft foods for the first few days is important to allow your mouth to heal. Over time you can add more solid foods into the mix, and as you do try to chew slowly and evenly so that you grow accustomed to managing your denture and to the pressure on the gums when chewing and biting. Give yourself more time for meals, because the longer you take, the quicker you will master your new denture.

4. Biting. In the beginning, don’t take large bites. Cut all foods into small portions and take much smaller bites than you normally would. If and when your gum ridges are firm enough to try foods that are bitten off (bread, corn on the cob, maybe even apples), press the food back against the upper teeth when biting to stabilize the denture.

5. Sore Spots. If you are experiencing pain and/or discomfort spots on your gums, visit your denturist for an adjustment.

6. Speech. If you notice that your dentures are causing you to slur your words or make speech seem more difficult, it is always a good idea to practice reading aloud or speaking before a mirror.

7. Cleaning. Your denture should be cleaned every morning with a denture safe cleanser or soap. This will help you make sure that it isn’t harboring bacteria or plaque that could cause damage to your gums. Cleaning will also ensure that your denture stays beautiful and comfortable for as long as possible.

8. Wear and Care. Try not to remove your denture, unless you need to clean or rinse it. Your denture may warp if it is left out to dry for an extended period of time. When you remove it for the night, keep it in water.

9. Tissue Change. It is important to remember that your gum tissues change, but your denture does not. Visit your denturist on a regular basis for a complete denture checkup to make sure that your denture is functioning properly.

10. Adjustments. This one is important! Never attempt to repair, reline, or adjust your denture by yourself in any way. This is a task that must be left to your denturist.

The above tips are important to ensuring that you can be successful in wearing your new dentures! They might be uncomfortable, strange, and sore at first, but getting new dentures should be seen as an exciting new step in your life. These dentures are meant to give you confidence, beauty, and function… So if you are stressed out with the adjustment process, just remember that it’s only temporary.

After just a bit of time, you will be LOVING your new mouth and these first 30 days will be a distant memory!

At Classic Denture Center, we are dedicated to helping you achieve that goal.

Your denturist in Portland Oregon, Tanya Poleon, can ease your mind and answer any questions you might have. We’ll gladly provide you with extra tips to help you adjust to your new smile. Contact us today!

The Connection Between Oral Care and Overall Health

Posted on September 6, 2018 by Classic Denture Center

It has probably been drilled into you throughout your life that taking good care of your mouth, teeth, and gums is of utmost importance. Your denturist in Portland OR Tanya Poleon stresses that keeping up with your oral and dental hygiene can help you prevent mouth conditions, such as bad breath, tooth decay and gum disease, as well as keep your natural teeth for as long as possible.

Brushing and flossing are both activities that are seen as vital to ensuring a healthy mouth, but they can also be your first line of defense when it comes to other dangerous medical conditions.

As the case for maintaining good oral hygiene keeps getting stronger, it is important for you to understand how important your oral health is to your overall health.

So what does your mouth tell us about your overall health?

The answer to that question is… Plenty!

A simple swab or look inside can actually give your doctor a world of insight into what’s going on inside your body.

Your saliva can also be used to detect for a variety of diseases and substances including:

Cortisol levels
Fragments of certain bone-specific proteins
Drugs
Certain cancers
Diabetes
Parkinson’s disease
Cirrhosis of the liver
Many other infectious diseases

Dental plaque has a connection to a variety of infections and diseases. Even though your saliva is great for protecting you against some invaders, it isn’t infallible. Many different types of bacteria can grow and thrive within your mouth. These bacteria constantly form a sticky, colorless film called dental plaque. This substance can cling to your teeth and cause you many pesky health problems.

This is especially the case when you forget to brush and floss on a regular basis. Allowing the plaque to build up along your gum-line can create the perfect environment for additional bacteria to accumulate.

This bacteria can lead to gum infections, such as:

Gingivitis
Periodontitis
Trench mouth

These are just a few reasons why good habits are important to your overall health… Your mouth is more than just a pretty smile or a way to enjoy your favorite meal… It’s the gateway to the rest of your body!

It is also important to know that caring for your natural teeth and caring for your dentures does differ. Here is the proper way to care for your dentures:

When cleaning your dentures, hold them over a sink of warm water to avoid damage if they are dropped
Rinse them thoroughly with warm water to make sure food particles are removed
Use a denture cleanser to avoid damage to the denture
Moisten a denture brush to gently clean all surfaces of your denture
Brush your tongue, gums, and natural teeth with a fluoride toothpaste before putting your dentures back in to help remove plaque
Rinse your mouth with mouthwash after you brush to be refreshed.

In many cases, you might have partial dentures and still have some natural teeth left, so it is important to use the proper hygiene suggestions for each to ensure and maintain proper oral health.

At Classic Denture Center, we know how much your smile means to you, and we hope you know how much it means to us! We want to make sure that you have the tools to keep it in it’s best shape for as long as possible, which is why dental hygiene is our biggest push for our patients!

Your denturist in Portland OR believes firmly that the relationship between your overall health and your oral health is one of the most important connections out there. So please resolve to regularly practice good oral hygiene each and every day. This is an investment that you are making in our health, for the rest of your life!

Contact us today or schedule an appointment to discuss how we can help you improve your health, in every way possible, through effective oral care.