Dentures are a type of dental appliance that can replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They can be used to restore a person's smile, improve their ability to eat and speak, and even help to maintain the structure of their face. Dentures come in various types, each with unique advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we'll explore the different types of dentures available and their characteristics.
Complete dentures are used to replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw or both. They are made of a gum-colored acrylic base that sits on the gums, with prosthetic teeth attached to the base. Complete dentures may be conventional or immediate. Conventional dentures are made after the teeth have been extracted and the gums have healed, while immediate dentures are made before the teeth are extracted and can be worn immediately after extraction.
Partial dentures are used to replace one or more missing teeth when there are still healthy natural teeth remaining. They consist of a gum-colored acrylic base that attaches to the remaining teeth with metal clasps or precision attachments. Partial dentures are removable, and the clasps or attachments may be visible when the wearer speaks or smiles.
Implant-supported dentures are a type of denture that is anchored in place with dental implants. Dental implants are metal posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as an anchor for the denture. Implant-supported dentures provide a more stable fit than traditional dentures and do not require adhesives. They are also more comfortable and can improve the wearer's ability to eat and speak.
Overdentures are similar to implant-supported dentures in that they are anchored in place with dental implants. However, overdentures are designed to fit over the remaining natural teeth, providing added stability and support. Overdentures can also be attached to implants, providing additional stability and support.
Immediate dentures are made before the natural teeth are extracted and are placed in the mouth immediately after extraction. Immediate dentures allow the wearer to have teeth while their gums heal, but they may require adjustments as the gums and bone shrink during the healing process.
Snap-in dentures are a type of overdenture that attaches to dental implants via snap-on connectors. The connectors allow the wearer to easily remove and replace the dentures for cleaning and maintenance.
In conclusion, dentures come in various types, each with unique advantages and disadvantages. Patients should consult with their dentist to determine which type of denture is best suited for their needs, budget, and lifestyle. With proper care and maintenance, dentures can provide a long-lasting, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solution to missing teeth.
We offer Denture services at iSmile Dental in Langley. Please contact us for more info.
