What are Dentures?
Dentures are artificial tooth replacements that allow patients with missing teeth to maintain their facial profile, eat properly and speak well. They can be used to replace one missing tooth, several missing teeth or all of the teeth.
Replacing missing teeth can be essential to your oral health. If you are missing all or some of your natural teeth, dentures may be an affordable option for replacing them.
Types of Dentures
Whether you need dentures to replace one missing tooth, a row of teeth or a whole set, your dentist can help you decide on the right option for you.
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Full Dentures
Your dentist will use full dentures, commonly referred to as false teeth or complete dentures, if you are missing all of your natural teeth.
You can have them fitted for your upper and/or lower gums, and they are held in place by suction and/or with the help of an oral adhesive.
Full dentures can be removed for cleaning and sleeping.
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Partial Dentures
Your dentist may recommend partial dentures if you are missing one or more teeth. Partial dentures can be an appropriate option to replace teeth if you prefer a removable option or if the surrounding teeth are not strong enough to support a dental bridge.
Partial dentures are made up of one or more artificial teeth held in place by fitting on/around your natural teeth.
They can be removed for cleaning and sleeping.
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Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures look and feel like natural teeth and can be more comfortable and stable than regular dentures due to their secure fit. They are designed to be long-lasting and allow you to maintain your ability to bite and chew.
Unlike regular full or partial dentures, some types of implant-supported dentures may only be removed by your dentist.
Why Dentures May Be Used
If you lose several or all of your teeth, facial muscles can sag, making you look older. Dentures can help fill out the appearance of your face and profile. They can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth so that your appearance does not change much.
Filling in a gap caused by missing teeth is also crucial to your long-term oral health. By fitting you for dentures, your dentist will also help protect your remaining teeth from shifting, which can contribute to more serious issues like gum disease. Dentures can also help make it easier to eat properly and speak well.