A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth. A denture can replace one/several/all teeth and two basic types are available: Partial Dentures and Full/Complete Dentures.
Partial Dentures:
A removable partial denture or bridge usually consists of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base, which is sometimes connected by metal framework that holds the denture in place in the mouth. Partial dentures can also be made completely out of acrylic and can be made in flexible plastic or “invisible” acrylic. Partial dentures are used when one or more natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw. Partial dentures fill in the spaces created by missing teeth, and also prevent other teeth from shifting or changing position.
Complete Dentures:
Complete dentures can be either “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional denture is made after the teeth have been removed and the gums have healed.
Immediate dentures are made in advance and delivered at the time the teeth are extracted. Due to the fact that the gums continue to heal and change shape over time, especially during the healing period following tooth removal, the immediate dentures will require more adjustment to fit properly during the healing process and generally should only be considered as a temporary solution until conventional dentures can be made.
Procedure:
After a complete examination and discussion of all available treatment options, your first appointment will involve the taking of dental impressions (usually your upper and lower teeth) and recording all other pertinent information such as tooth color/shade, specific requirements etc. Depending on the type of denture we have decided upon there may be a few appointments prior to you getting your final denture. At this appointments we will be evaluating the fit, comfort and esthetics of the denture to ensure you will be satisfied with your new teeth!
Dental implants can be used to replace missing teeth sometimes eliminating the need for a denture. Dental implants can also be used to help secure partial or conventional dentures, improving fit and function.
