The best starting point to see if dentures are an option is to see your dentist. They can help determine if another treatment option might be more suited to your particular situation. If dentures are an option, they can help you decide which type of denture is best for you.
What types of dentures are there?
Dental implants may be used to support partial or total denture replacement. Dental implants can be utilized in place of lost teeth, replacing both the upper and lower jawbones. Full dentures rest on top of and cover the gums where the original teeth have been removed. Partial dentures, which replace only part of the teeth, are maintained by dental implants. Partial dentures that replace some but not all of the natural teeth are known as interim dentures. They attach to remaining teeth and cover and rest on the gums and bones where the lost teeth should have been. Dental implants can also assist with partial denture restoration and stabilization.
Traditional complete full dentures
Complete dentures replace all of a patient’s teeth. Full dentures sit on the gums instead of dental bridges anchored to existing teeth. Full dentures are typically placed within 8-12 weeks after the teeth have been removed/extracted.
Partial dentures
Partial dentures are used to replace teeth that have been lost. Partial dentures are sometimes called “half-dentures.” They’re sometimes known as composite partial dentures or half-denture prostheses. When a person has natural teeth, such as when one or more teeth are still in the upper and lower jaw, partial dentures may be employed. A pink-colored foundation is attached to a metal piece that acts as the base. The denture is kept in place by these two pieces.
Partials are convenient and removable dentures, so you can take them out whenever necessary. They also help to prevent the other teeth from moving. Partials are made from all-acrylic or acrylic material.
Custom dentures
Dentures that are custom-made to fit your mouth better are more expensive, but they also provide a smile that looks more natural. You may view the finished denture before it is implanted. Because the denture is created to suit your smile, it appears natural and meets your demands.
Immediate dentures
Immediate dentures are placed as soon as the teeth have been extracted. Not everyone is a good candidate for this type of denture, however. With immediate dentures, you won’t have to go without teeth during the healing process. Immediate dentures are made in advance and can be worn right away.
Implant-supported dentures
Implant-supported dentures are more expensive, but they offer many advantages. Implant-supported dentures are less likely to slip or shift in your mouth and provide better support for your jaw. They also help to preserve the bone in your jaw.
Snap-in dentures
Snap-in dentures are a type of denture that is held in place by snaps that attach to implants in your jaw. Snap-in dentures are more expensive, but they offer several advantages. They are less likely to slip or shift in your mouth and provide better support for your jaw. Snap-in dentures are typically chosen when a patient has no teeth but enough bone to support an implant.
Overdentures
An overdenture is a prosthetic that sits on top of the gums and is secured with dental implants. Depending on the patient’s demands, it can be placed on the upper or lower jaw. The overdenture may also be removed.
Upper dentures
Upper dentures are dentures for the upper teeth. Upper dentures may be your best solution if you miss teeth in the upper jaw.
If you are considering dentures as an option to improve your smile, we encourage you to contact your dentist. They can answer any questions and provide more information about the process and what to expect. Dental professionals have the necessary training and experience to help you decide which dentures are right for you.
