Dentures
DENTURES & PARTIALS
A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and the surrounding tissue. It is made to closely resemble your natural teeth and enhance your appearance.
There are two types of dentures: complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when many or all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth still remain. A partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from moving or shifting to over the empty gap. This phenomenon is called crowding and can severely skew the structure of your teeth if not prevented.
A complete denture may be either “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking four to six weeks. During this time, the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and are 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 to achieve a more comfortable, natural fit.
Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but they may eventually have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.
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 contours.
- Improving chewing, digestion, and speech.
WHAT DOES GETTING DENTURES INVOLVE?
The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over 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, the 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 after receiving your dentures. However, this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.
You will be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will help maintain your new dentures.
