What are Dentures?
Dentures are custom-made tooth replacements that can help restore your smile, support your facial structure, and improve your ability to eat and speak comfortably.
Replacing missing teeth is important for maintaining your oral health. If you’ve lost some or all of your natural teeth, dentures can be an affordable and effective way to restore function and confidence.
Immediate dentures are made prior to the extraction of the natural teeth, then inserted into the mouth immediately after the extractions of those teeth. Conventional dentures are fabricated after your bone and tissue have fully healed from the extraction of the natural teeth.
Types of Dentures
Whether you need dentures to replace one missing tooth, a row of teeth or a whole set, your dentist can help you decide on the right option for you.
-
Full Dentures
Full dentures, also commonly referred to as false teeth or complete dentures, are used if you are missing a whole jaw of natural teeth.
You can have them fitted for your upper and/or lower gums, and they are held in place by suction or with the help of an oral adhesive.
These dentures are designed to be removed for cleaning and sleeping.
-
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are made up of one or more artificial teeth held in place by fitting on/around your natural teeth.
Your dentist may recommend partial dentures if you are missing one or more teeth. Partial dentures are ideal if you want a removable option or if the surrounding teeth are not strong enough to support a dental bridge.
Because they are removable, partial dentures can be taken out for sleeping and cleaning.
-
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures look and feel like natural teeth. Due to their secure fit, they can be more comfortable and stable than regular dentures.
They are designed to be long-lasting while allowing you to maintain your ability to bite and chew.
Unlike regular full or partial dentures, some types of implant-supported dentures may only be removed by your dentist.
Why Dentures May Be Used
Filling in a gap caused by missing teeth is crucial to your long-term oral health. Having dentures, rather than leaving an empty space, can help prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of place. This helps avoid more serious issues such as gum disease and the deterioration of your jaw bone. Dentures can also help you maintain your ability to chew and speak properly.
Additionally, if you lose several or all of your teeth, facial muscles can sag, making you look older. Dentures can help fill out the appearance of your face and profile. Since they can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth, your appearance should not change much as a result of having dentures.