Dentures
Dentures, also known as false teeth, are the primary topic in this section
of our site. Here, you can learn how the procedure is performed, what
dentures cost and the advantages and disadvantages of having them. You'll
also have a chance to see photos taken before and after a patient gets
dentures and you will be able to read personal experiences from patients who
have them. Finally, you'll be able to discuss dentures with other patients
and potential patients. You can use the outline below to jump to a specific
point in the section, or you can use the "Continue" arrow button below to
begin reading.
What are dentures?
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth typically made out of
an acrylic resin which at times incorporate porcelain or metal for
additional structural support. There are two main types of dentures. Both
Complete Dentures and Partial Dentures are finely crafted, custom-fitted. If
you properly maintain your dentures they will appear natural and provide a
perfect smile. Additionally, dentures help strengthen muscles controlling
your expressions that require the support of your teeth, rid you of
pronunciation problems caused by missing teeth and aid with chewing.
Who is a candidate for
dentures?
If you've lost, or are
losing, all of your teeth a Complete Denture is something to discuss with
your cosmetic dentist. If some of your teeth remain and are healthy, a
partial denture may be your way to a great smile.
This procedure should be
thoroughly discussed with your dentist as there are several personal and
medical factors to take into consideration. You may instead be a candidate
for dental bridges and dental implants as optional procedures.
Overview of dentures
Dentures are removable
replacements for missing teeth typically made out of an acrylic resin which
may at times incorporate porcelain or metal for additional structural
support. There are two main types of dentures, complete and partial. Both
Complete dentures and partial dentures are finely crafted and custom-fitted
to the patient. If you properly maintain your dentures they will appear
natural and provide a perfect smile. Additionally, dentures help strengthen
muscles controlling your expressions that require the support of your teeth,
rid you of pronunciation problems caused by missing teeth and aid with
chewing.
How are dentures
accomplished?
It is somewhat common to
require for some teeth to be extracted, and surgery in some cases is
necessary to improve the bony ridges that stabilize your dentures.
The procedure begins with a
wax bite impression of your mouth that will give your dentist exacting
measurements. A try-on appointment will fine tunes color, shape, and
custom-fit.
After your final dentures
are fabricated, they will be placed and informed of their required care.
Complete Dentures
These replace all of your
teeth, upper or lower. Their comfort depends on muscle, bones, tongue, and
saliva. Patients begin wearing conventional dentures after healing the teeth
that were pulled.
Immediate Dentures
Immediate Dentures are
placed all at once, and may require additional adjustments after the healing
process. It can take months for your bone and tissue to stabilize after
tooth extractions.
Upper Dentures
Upper Dentures, tend to be
a bit easier to adjust to. These are made of the same materials as a
Complete Denture, but are designed to provide you with upper teeth only.
Over Dentures
Over Dentures are a type of
conventional denture similar to Complete Dentures. The difference is that
not all teeth are extracted and they use one or more natural teeth for their
support. This type provides greater stabilization during chewing. Over
Dentures cost more and typically require more preparation dental
appointments until the procedure is fully complete.
Partial Dentures
Designed to correct the
gaps in your smile when only some of your teeth are missing. Metal
attachments anchor the dentures to your natural teeth. Partial Dentures
maintain tooth alignment by preventing your remaining teeth from shifting.
Partial Dentures can also help prevent your loss of more teeth due to decay
or gum disease.
Advantages &
Disadvantages of Dentures
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Pros and Cons of a
Dentures
Advantages:
Dentures definitely
provide a great smile with a very natural appearance. They're made
of very durable materials and last very long when properly taken
care of. Typically dentures last from five to ten years. They also
correct several problems, from speech to chewing, for many patients.
Disadvantages:
There's no doubt
that dentures take a little getting used to. There is maintenance
involved, and initial speech issues to overcome (these are temporary
and last only a couple of days). Mouth irritation or sores may
occur, but are usually caused by poor dental hygiene, and not
removing your dentures when needed. It is common that your mouth
change over the life of your dentures, so even though they last
long, they may need to be replaced to achieve a better fit before
they are worn out. With a denture a person typically chews at only
15-23% efficiency compared to a person chewing with their natural
teeth. In the case of a full upper denture, the upper palate is
covered which can reduce taste of foods you're chewing.
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