DENTURES
& PARTIAL DENTURES
A denture is a removable
dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue.
They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even
enhance your smile.
There are two types of
dentures - complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are
used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are
used when some natural teeth remain. A Partial denture not only
fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other
teeth from shifting.
A Complete denture may
be either “conventional” or “immediate.”
A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and
the gum tissue has healed, usually taking 4 to 6 weeks. During this
time the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made
in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus
preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the
healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will
have to be made.
Dentures are very durable
appliances and will last many years, but may have to be remade,
repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.
Reasons
for dentures:
What
does getting dentures involve?
The process of getting
dentures requires several appointments, usually over several weeks.
Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and
used to create your custom denture. Several “try-in”
appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and
fit. At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust
and place the completed denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable
fit.
It is normal to experience
increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing
difficulty, however this will subside as your muscles and tissues
get used to the new dentures.
You will be given care
instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your new
dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will
aid in the life of your new dentures.