Dentures are an affordable and removable tooth replacement option for patients who are missing teeth. The dentures most applicable to your needs will depend on the number of teeth you are missing. Let’s take a closer look at the types of dentures that are available.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are false teeth that are held together on a base. They can be removed for cleaning and allow you to restore form and function to your bite. Because custom dentures take some time to manufacture, you will be fitted with immediate dentures, which are a temporary solution, until your final prosthesis is ready.
Conventional dentures sit above your gum line. The artificial teeth are usually made from acrylic and are designed to match the size, shape and colour of your natural teeth. It may take a few days to adjust to wearing your denture, but once you are used to it, you will be able to eat comfortably and smile with confidence.
Sometimes patients find that complete or partial dentures move around too much and do not offer enough stability. In these cases, it is possible to hold your denture in place using a dental implant. These are known as implant-retained or implant-supported dentures.
Types Of Dentures
What Are Complete Dentures?
Also called full dentures, complete dentures are created when you need to replace an entire arch of missing teeth, on the upper or lower arch (or both arches). Full dentures can be fixed or removable.
What Are Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures are used when you still have one or more of your natural teeth in your arch. The partial denture will fill in the gaps left behind and will use your remaining teeth for support.
The base of partial dentures can be made from acrylic or metallic cobalt chrome. Your dental practitioner may discuss the pros and cons of these materials with you prior to manufacturing your denture.
When Are Immediate Dentures Used?
These dentures are made differently from conventional dentures, in that the mould is cast over your gums after your teeth have been extracted. The mould for conventional dentures is cast once your gums have healed, so the fit is much more accurate and comfortable to wear.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
On average dentures can be expected to last for between five and eight years, when they will need to be replaced. This is because there will be changes to your mouth and gum shape that will affect how your dentures fit. Relining your dentures may be required after a few years if your mouth shape hasn’t changed too much. This can improve comfort and fit.
To find out more about the types of dentures best suited for your long term dental needs, please contact us for a consultation:
Buderim: (07) 5317 1023
Caloundra: (07) 5315 8076
References
Dentures Treatment Guide: Costs, Process & More
https://www.smile.com.au/dental-treatments/dentures
Recent Comments