Dentures
A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Two types of dentures are available -- complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth are still present. During your consultation, we’ll assess all your options and you can choose what you feel most comfortable with.
Partial Dentures
A removable partial denture usually is replacing multiple missing teeth when a fixed prosthesis or a dental implant are not viable solutions. It consists of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base, which is sometimes connected by metal framework that holds the denture in place by clasping to anchor teeth. Not only does a partial denture fill in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from changing position and improves esthetic and function. A precision partial denture is removable and has internal attachments rather than clasps that attach to the adjacent crowns or implants. This is a more natural-looking appliance.
Complete Dentures
When all teeth are lost, a complete denture is the optimal solution. Complete dentures can be either "conventional" or "immediate." Made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has begun to heal, a conventional denture is ready for placement in the mouth about 8 to 12 weeks after the teeth have been removed.
Unlike conventional dentures, immediate dentures are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed. As a result, the patient does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bones and gums shrink over time, especially during the healing period following tooth removal. Therefore a disadvantage of immediate dentures compared with conventional dentures is that they require more adjustments to fit properly during the healing process and generally should only be considered a temporary solution until conventional dentures can be made. Complete dentures could also be anchored to dental implants. The latter option has the best retention, but involves surgery. We will discuss all the details so you can make an informed decision.