Dentures & Partial Dentures

A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding gums.

There are two kinds 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.  If some natural teeth are able to be preserved, a partial denture attaches to these teeth while a full denture rests entirely on top of gums.

A complete denture can be either “conventional” or “immediate.”  A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed (usually takes 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  and will last many years. However, as the bone and gums change over time, a denture may need to be realigned for a better fit over time.

Reasons for dentures:

• Complete Denture - Loss of all teeth in an arch.
  
• Partial Denture - Loss of several teeth in an arch.
  
• Enhancing smile and facial tissues.
  
• Improving chewing, speech, and digestion.

The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over a period of several weeks.  Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create a full or partial 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 over time.

Regular dental visits and good home care are still an essential part of maintaining oral health even if there are no longer any teeth remaining.