DENTURES & PARTIAL DENTURES

A denture is a removable dental appliance that replaces missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and even enhance your smile.

There are two types of dentures – complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth and prevents other teeth from shifting. 

A complete denture can be either “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed (this usually takes four-six weeks). During this time, the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments are made.

 

Reasons for Dentures:

  • Complete Denture – Loss of all teeth in an arch

  • Partial Denture – Loss of several teeth in an arch

  • Enhancing smile and facial tissues

  • Improving chewing, speech and digestion

 

What does getting dentures involve?

The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over a period of several weeks.

  • Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture. 

  • Several “try-in” appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color and fit. 

  • At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.

It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness and possible speech and chewing difficulty; however, this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.

Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years but may have to be remade, repaired or readjusted due to normal wear. Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.