The Difference Between False Teeth and Dentures
A common question we get is “what’s the difference between false teeth and dentures?” In short, very little! A quick web search will show a number of opinions, such as false teeth apply to only one tooth, whereas dentures applies to a row of teeth.
This is somewhat misleading – not because one term refers to a number or row of teeth- rather either term could be used to refer to either number of teeth – singular or plural. As a case in point you certainly can have partial dentures fitted for a single missing tooth – you can also have a whole row of teeth replaced, which would also be called dentures.
So if false teeth and dentures are the same – where did the different terms come from? While we do not know definitively we do have a few ideas.
Difference between False Teeth and Dentures – Origins
The term false teeth (or fake teeth as some people refer to them) is possibly derived from historical origins – where different types of materials were used to replace lost teeth. Hundreds of years ago, false teeth were produced using a variety of materials. Some of the most common included animal teeth, ivory, human teeth and porcelain. Understandably, most of these materials were not as effective as the materials we use today. Ivory, in particular, had a short life before it would discolour and give off a terrible smell. Human teeth were an obvious choice, however the method of obtaining them were less than ideal (usually from someone who was deceased).
Interestingly, there have been rumours that George Washington had false teeth made from wood – this is a rather exaggerated tale that expands on the fact he had dentures that held teeth made from hippopotamus, ivory and metal.
How are Dentures Made?
We use a combination of acrylic resins, porcelain and plastics to produce a mould that fits comfortably and provides realistic looking teeth. In order to ensure dentures look less like false teeth and more like real teeth, a prosthetist is usually assigned to the patient and will produce a custom design that incorporates the shape of the patient’s mouth and jaw.
The portion of the dentures that holds the teeth is called a denture base – this is the part that is in direct contact with your gums. The second major component are the teeth themselves. This is also where some confusion has occurred when people ask about the difference between false teeth and dentures. Sometimes people refer to the base as the ‘denture’ and the artificial teeth as ‘false teeth’. However, generally speaking, false teeth and dentures refer to the whole construct – not individual components.
Taking Care of Your Dentures
Irrespective of whether you choose to refer to your dentures as false teeth or dentures, it is still important to realise that they need to be maintained and looked after just as well, if not better, than natural teeth. There is a misconception that false teeth, being made from synthetic materials, do not need to be cleaned or taken care of as well as naturally occurring teeth. While these materials are designed to be hardy and wear-resistant, they do require maintenance to ensure longevity. This also applies to the overall hygiene of your mouth as well. Because the denture base will be in contact with the jaw, it must be maintained to ensure health issues do not arise with the jaw itself.
As professional Prosthetists we generally refer to false teeth as dentures, as this is the definition that we are accustomed to – either way, the difference between false teeth and dentures is little more than terminology.
If you would like further advice about your new denture options in Brisbane please contact us. It’s our job to put a lovely big smile on your face.
Enquire about our special rates for Pensioners