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Dentures and Partials
A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are designed to closely resemble your natural teeth and can even enhance your smile.
There are two primary types of dentures: complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures are necessary when all teeth in an arch are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture not only fills the gaps left by missing teeth but also prevents adjacent teeth from shifting.
Complete dentures can be categorized as either "conventional" or "immediate." Conventional complete dentures are created after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, which usually takes 3 to 6 months. During this healing period, patients may go without teeth or opt for immediate dentures that are made in advance and placed right after tooth extraction, thus ensuring that they do not have to be without teeth. Once the gum tissues heal and shrink, adjustments will be necessary.
Dentures, whether complete or partial, are durable dental appliances that can last for many years. However, they may require remaking, repairing, or relining due to normal wear and tear.
Reasons for getting dentures include:
- Complete dentures for the loss of all teeth in an arch.
- Partial dentures for the loss of several teeth in an arch.
- Enhancing your smile and facial tissues.
- Improving chewing, speech, and digestion.
What does the process of getting dentures involve?
The journey to getting dentures requires several appointments over the course of a few weeks. Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken to create your custom dental appliance replacement. Multiple "try-in" appointments may be needed to ensure the right shape, color, and fit. At the final appointment, your dentist will make precise adjustments to place the completed denture, ensuring it fits naturally and comfortably.
It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and potential difficulties in speech and chewing at first; however, these sensations will diminish as your muscles and tissues adapt to the new dentures.
You will receive care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your dental appliance replacement, maintaining good oral hygiene, and scheduling regular dental visits will help prolong the life of your new dentures.
Dentist examining a happy patient's teeth during a checkup.