Dentures are dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore a natural-looking smile. They are an effective solution for those who have lost some or all of their teeth due to aging, injury, or disease. There are several different types of dentures available, each with their own unique advantages and disadvantages. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of dentures and how they can benefit those in need of tooth replacement.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are designed to replace all of the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, or both. They are made from a gum-colored acrylic base that fits over the gums, with prosthetic teeth attached to the base. Complete dentures are custom-made for each patient, with the dentist taking measurements and impressions of the mouth to ensure a proper fit.
Complete dentures can be either conventional or immediate. Conventional dentures are made after the remaining teeth are removed and the gums have had time to heal. Immediate dentures, on the other hand, are made before the teeth are removed and can be worn immediately after the extraction process. However, they may require adjustments as the gums heal and shrink over time.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are designed to replace one or more missing teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. They are made from a gum-colored acrylic base with prosthetic teeth attached to it, and they are held in place by metal clasps that attach to adjacent teeth. Partial dentures can be either removable or fixed, depending on the patient’s preference.
Removable partial dentures are designed to be taken out for cleaning and maintenance. Fixed partial dentures, also known as dental bridges, are attached to adjacent teeth using dental crowns and are not removable. Both types of partial dentures can improve speech, chewing ability, and the appearance of the smile.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are a popular alternative to traditional dentures. They are designed to be held in place by dental implants, which are small titanium screws that are placed into the jawbone. The denture is then attached to the implants using special attachments, providing a secure and stable fit.
Implant-supported dentures can be either removable or fixed, depending on the patient’s preference. Removable implant-supported dentures can be easily taken out for cleaning and maintenance, while fixed implant-supported dentures are attached to the implants permanently and cannot be removed.
Overdentures
Overdentures are like implant-supported dentures but are designed to fit over remaining natural teeth. They are held in place by dental implants or metal clasps, providing a secure and stable fit. Overdentures can be removable or fixed, and they can improve speech, chewing ability, and the appearance of the smile.
Snap-On Dentures
Snap-on dentures are a type of removable denture that is held in place by special dental attachments. These attachments snap onto dental implants, providing a secure and stable fit. Snap-on dentures are a popular alternative to traditional dentures, as they are more comfortable and stable, and they do not require messy adhesives.
In conclusion, there are several different types of dentures available, each with their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Complete and partial dentures are the most common types, but implant-supported dentures, overdentures, and snap-on dentures are becoming increasingly popular as well. If you are in need of dentures, it is important to consult with your dentist to determine which type of denture is right for you. With the right dentures, you can enjoy a natural-looking smile and improved quality of life.