Dentures

Dentures are custom-made artificial replacement teeth and gums that are formed to your mouth and created by your dentist to replace lost or removed natural teeth. They are worn by those who have lost their natural teeth through injury, illness, or oral health issues such as extreme gum disease. There are different types of dentures designed to address a variety of dental situations. Dentures may be partial or full, and they may be removable, or implant-supported.

• Dentures can offer both functional and aesthetic benefits
• Dentures are custom-designed to fit each patient’s mouth, so they will fit perfectly
• Dentures can improve your appearance and smile: Dentures support lips and cheeks, improving the appearance of a patient who has lost his or her own natural teeth
• Support from dentures can improve your speech
• Dentures allow patients to eat food they would not otherwise be able to eat without teeth
• Dentures can increase your self-esteem
• If not implant-supported, dentures are easily removed. This allows you to clean them quickly and thoroughly
• Once you get used to them, dentures are a comfortable aesthetic solution

Partial dentures are what their name implies – they are a partial set of false teeth, used to fill in the missing space around the teeth you still have. They are used when one or more natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw. They are typically made with either a plastic base or metal framework that holds the denture in place in the mouth. They usually consist of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-coloured plastic base, and they work to support the teeth that need to be replaced. The partial denture is held in place with clasps that adhere to your surrounding natural teeth.

Traditionally, the partial denture has been made of metal framework due to its strength and durability. Partial dentures made with a plastic base are most often used in an emergency or temporary situations. However, certain materials are now being used in addition to metal and plastic that have been developed as alternative options.

A complete denture is ideal for patients who have lost, or are losing, all of their teeth. Complete dentures are what their name implies – they are a complete-mouth dental appliance that has been custom-made in a dental laboratory to look like natural teeth. When you select complete dentures, you can be assured of a custom fit, since impressions of your mouth are taken after your teeth have been removed.

Like most things that are new, dentures may feel awkward when you first start to wear them. However, most patients find that after a week or two of wearing them, they become accustomed, and their complete or partial denture is the last thing they’re thinking about!

Some people notice difficulty when they try to pronounce certain words, but with time this will diminish. However, if you hear a clicking sound, you should contact your dentist for an adjustment and exam.

In certain cases, dental implants may be an option to support bridges which would then eliminate the need for a partial denture. Dental implants are more expensive, but because they most resemble your real teeth, they are an alternative to be considered.