Dentures 101: Everything You Need To Know

Dentures are an effective tooth-replacement option for anyone missing multiple teeth. Dentures are custom created and made of removable prosthetic appliances with artificial teeth. Molded to fit a patient's unique mouth structure, no two sets of dentures are identical. 

There are a variety of reasons why a person may be missing teeth. Here's everything you need to know about dentures and why they may be the ideal solution for your smile.

Dentures Look and Feel More Natural Than Ever Before

Many patients are apprehensive about wearing dentures because they are thought to be ill-fitting and noticeable. However, those were dentures of the past. Today's dentures look and feel more natural than ever before. 

Dentures Are For Patients of All Ages

From a physical accident to teeth being damaged by advanced stages of tooth decay, there are various reasons why someone may be missing teeth. While most patients assume that you have to be over a certain age to qualify for dentures, this is not the case. Missing teeth can happen to anyone, regardless of age or gender. Dentures allow for the wearer to speak, smile, and eat comfortably without the risk of discomfort or damage to your smile. 

Types of Dentures

The two main types of dentures are full and partial. A qualified and trusted dental professional can help you choose the type of denture that best suits your smile. Your dentist will make a recommendation based on the number of teeth you're missing and your budget. 

Full Dentures

Full dentures are used to replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. The remaining teeth need to be removed first before a conventional or immediate full denture can be created. 

Conventional full dentures will not be inserted immediately after the removal of any remaining teeth. Instead, measurements of the mouth will be taken to create a custom denture designed to fit a patient's mouth. Oral tissue needs time to heal before a custom created denture can be inserted. It can take several months for a patient to receive a conventional full denture. For many, this option becomes an undesirable one because of the length of time without teeth it requires. 

Immediate full dentures are inserted immediately after the remaining teeth are removed. This denture type doesn't require a patient to go an extended period without teeth; however, this type of denture must be realigned several months after being placed. The bone and gums will continue to move throughout the healing process, which can leave you with a loose-fitting denture. 

Partial Dentures 

A partial denture is used when a patient is missing a section of teeth. Partial dentures rest on a metal framework attached to your still-existing teeth. Dentists will often place crowns on select surrounding natural teeth to serve as supportive anchors for the denture.

Implant-supported dentures

Implant-supported dentures, like All-On-4® implants, provide a more technologically advanced way to keep your dentures secured to your smile. The dentures are attached to All-On-4 dental implants. These small titanium posts are surgically implanted into your jaw and function as artificial tooth roots. 

Implant-supported dentures tend to be even more comfortable than traditional dentures, and they provide healthy stimulation to your jawbone, which can help prevent bone loss and facial sagging.

Dentures Should Last For Years (With Proper Care!)

Just like natural teeth, dentures require care and maintenance. When properly cared for, a set of full or partial dentures should last for many years. Dentures may need to be readjusted for comfort or fit if your jawbone shifts or other teeth have to be removed. Regardless of the reason behind your tooth loss, dentures can help you achieve the look and functionality of a strong, attractive smile. To learn more about dentures and if they're right for you, contact Elite Dental & Denture PC.