For patients who are missing teeth, dentures are an excellent treatment option. Today’s dentures are very different than they used to be; they provide a comfortable fit and have a much more natural appearance.
Dentures: Types and Options
Dentures are removable appliances used to compensate for missing teeth. They are an easy, non-surgical way to restore a patient’s ability to function normally. Dentures aren’t just for older people; patients of any age who are missing some or all of their teeth can benefit from either a full set of dentures or a partial denture.
Why choose dentures or partials for replacing missing teeth?
Dentures and partials are a cost effective way to replace missing teeth. They restore the patient’s ability to speak clearly, chew food with ease, and smile confidently. Partial dentures are also beneficial because they can help prevent the remaining natural teeth from shifting out of place.
The dentures treatment appointments
Patients can get their dentures immediately after having teeth extracted (immediate dentures), or they can be placed after the gums have healed (conventional dentures).
The process of getting dentures takes place over multiple appointments. You’ll need to have impressions taken of your mouth, and a model will be created to make sure the fit is right. You will also need to make decisions about the shade of your dentures or partial. Then, your dentures will be perfectly crafted to your liking.
The dentures are specially created for each patient in a dental lab. We take molds to get exact measurements to make sure your dentures fit perfectly. Your dentures can also be adjusted if necessary.
Dentures & Partials: Facts and Benefits
Brief history about dentures
The first dentures were created around 700BC. Unlike modern dentures, they were made using actual teeth from humans or animals. In the 1700s, ivory was the main material used until around 1774, when the first porcelain dentures were created. Today’s dentures are created using acrylic materials.
Of course, today’s dentures look much more natural and have a much better fit than in years past!
What kinds of dentures and partials are available?
Traditional – Traditional dentures may consist of either a full set of dentures, or a partial set. Full dentures consist of a full row of your teeth. One full set of dentures will replace either your upper arch or lower arch. Partial dentures can be used in areas where you have lost a few teeth, but a dental bridge is not the best course of action. Our dentists will help you decide which type of dentures is best for you.
Implant-Retained – Implant-retained dentures utilize the placement of dental implants with ball attachments to secure your dentures. The attachments snap firmly to your implants, ensuring a secure fit.
Implant-Supported – Similar to implant-retained dentures, implant-supported dentures also start with the placement of dental implants to serve as an anchor for your dentures. A small bar attaches to the underside of your dentures providing a safe and secure fit. Implant-supported dentures allow you to live your life normally, without needing denture adhesive or worrying about slipping dentures.
If you are missing a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all of your teeth, rest assured that there is a set of complete or partial dentures that will meet your needs. If you have missing teeth, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our experienced dentists to discuss your options.