Complete or Partial Dentures
If you are missing some or all of your teeth, your dentist may recommend using a denture to replace your missing teeth. Dentures come in different forms and are custom-made to fit your mouth and match the appearance of your existing teeth.
What is a denture?
Dentures are both artificial teeth and gums that are formed to fit perfectly in your mouth. They are used to replace lost or removed natural teeth. Dentures can either be full or partial, so they can either replace all teeth on the top or bottom gum line or just a few that are missing.
What types of dentures are available?
There are two types of dentures: partial dentures and complete dentures.
Partial dentures are used when the surrounding natural teeth are not strong enough to hold a dental bridge in place. Partial dentures are made of one or more natural looking artificial teeth and are held in place by clasps, which will be fitted to the natural teeth. Partial dentures are removable and can be removed for cleaning or before you go to sleep.
Complete dentures or full dentures are used when you do not have any natural teeth. These dentures are also removable. They are held in place by suction. There are two types of complete dentures:
- Conventional dentures: You will receive your complete dentures after your gums and jawbone are healed from any extraction or surgery. It means you will have to wait for a couple of months until you receive your denture.
- Immediate dentures: Your immediate denture will be placed at the day of extraction of your teeth. It means you do not need to wait for your gums to heal. Although, you might experience some discomfort as the gum is still recovering under the denture. Generally, many people prefer to have an immediate denture because they can go back to work on the same day with all their teeth without worrying about their appearance.
What are overdentures?
Overdentures are dentures, which are fitted over your remaining natural teeth or your dental implants. Just like the other types of dentures, overdentures are removable.
How to care for dentures?
Dentures require daily cleaning and brushing just like your natural teeth. Your dentist will instruct you about how to clean your denture thoroughly. You should always remove and clean your denture over a bowl of water or a folded towel. Please note that dentures are fragile and can break if they fall on a hard surface. It is essential to have regular visits with your dentist and dental hygienist to maintain your oral health.
What are the alternatives for dentures?
Depending on your situation, your dentist may also recommend a dental bridge or a dental implant as an alternative to the denture. Only your dentist can tell which solution is appropriate for you.
At ComfoDent clinics, we review every patient’s situation in detail and will thoroughly explain all of the available options that our patients have to replace their missing teeth. Together, we work with our patients to provide the best and most appropriate treatment for them. If you have any questions or concerns about your current denture, or you are thinking about having a denture or would like to see what your options are for replacing your missing teeth, please do not hesitate to contact one of the ComfoDent clinics to book a free consultation appointment with one of our friendly and helpful dentists. We are glad to help you find the most appropriate solution for your situation.