What are Dentures?
Dentures are removal dental replacement for missing teeth, as well as the surrounding gum tissue. Partial dentures are similar; however, they only cover a small area in which teeth may be missing. Dentures are made to closely resemble your natural teeth, and can enhance the look of your mouth, by taking the place of missing teeth and gaps.
Difference Between Complete and Partial Dentures
Complete dentures are generally used when the patient is missing all of his or her teeth. They act as a full-set of prosthetic teeth. Whereas, partial dentures are used in the event that only some teeth are missing, and the patient has natural teeth remaining. Partial dentures not only fill the space created by missing teeth, but they also help to prevent further shifting or movement of teeth. Acting as a type of brace for the remaining teeth.
Conventional & Immediate (Complete) Dentures
Full dentures are either conventional or immediate. Conventional dentures are made after all the teeth have been removed and the remaining gum tissue has healed. This process usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks. During the 4-6-week period the patient will generally go without teeth.
Immediate dentures are made in advance of a patient’s teeth falling out or being removed. They can be fitted and applied immediately, allowing the patient to have “teeth” immediately without having to go without them.
Common Reasons for Dentures
- Complete: Loss of all teeth within a certain dental arch.
- Partial: Loss of several teeth within a certain dental arch.
- In order to better a person’s appearance and smile.
- Improve an individual’s chewing.
- Improve patient’s speech.
- Improve patient’s ability to properly digest food.
- Closes gaps, that are often more susceptible to bacteria and infection.
Getting Dentures
The process of getting dentures requires several appointments over the course of several weeks. Molds must be taken of the mouth to get an accurate measurement of the tooth placement, as dentures are always custom fit. Dentists will usually require a number of fitting appointments. During these appointments you will have the opportunity to try on the denture molds multiple time, judging the fit, comfort, shape, and color matching (to your natural teeth).
Once dentures are applied the surrounding tissue must shrink and heal around them. Because of this, constant adjustments musts be made. Despite dentures being quite durable, they are of course susceptible to normal wear and tear. They may have to be repaired, readjusted and in certain cases remade.
In the beginning you may feel mild soreness, increased saliva flow, and some difficulty speaking and chewing. However, these side effects will pass once your oral muscles become acclimated to the newly made dentures. If you are in need of dentures, be sure to contact Affotdable Dental Care today!