Partial Dentures
Partial dentures replace a small number of teeth and help maintain the position of existing teeth. They’re suitable for people who still have some natural teeth left, helping to fill in missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw. A partial denture involves replacement teeth being attached to a gum-coloured base made from plastic, which can then be freely inserted and removed from the mouth by an individual. Implant-supported dentures can also be made for those who might only have dental implants rather than natural teeth.
Full Dentures
A full set of dentures replaces an entire set of teeth (upper or lower) to allow a person to once again enjoy the foods they love. Once all teeth have fallen out or been removed and the gum tissue has healed, a set of flexible full dentures can be fitted. Like partial dentures, full dentures also involve replacement teeth being attached to a gum-coloured base that fits into the mouth.
The Procedure for Dentures
The procedure for each type of denture may vary, but typically involves the following steps:
- Initial consultation – Our team will examine the patient’s mouth and determine the best treatment plan.
- Impressions – Impressions are taken of the patient’s mouth to create a mould for the dentures.
- Fitting – The dentures will be fitted and any necessary adjustments will be made.
- Follow-up appointments – Our team will schedule follow-up appointments to ensure the dentures are fitting properly and to make any necessary adjustments.
The Benefits of Full and Partial Dentures
Full and partial dentures offer many benefits, including:
- Improved appearance – Cosmetic dentures can improve the appearance of a patient’s smile and facial structure.
- Improved speech – Missing teeth can affect speech, but dentures can help patients speak more clearly.
- Improved chewing ability – Dentures can improve a patient’s ability to chew food and enjoy a variety of foods.
- Improved oral health – Dentures can help support the surrounding teeth and prevent them from shifting.
Suitability of Dentures
Dentures are a suitable treatment option for patients who have lost one or more teeth. They’re also a good option for patients who are unable to undergo more invasive treatments, such as dental implants.
Types of Dentures
- Traditional full dentures –These are used to replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They’re typically made from acrylic resin and are held in place by suction.
- Partial dentures – These are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They’re typically made from a combination of metal and acrylic and are attached to the remaining teeth with clasps.
- Implant-supported dentures – These are held in place by dental implants, which are surgically placed in the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures offer improved stability and support compared to a traditional full set of dentures.
- Permanent dentures – These are fixed in place and cannot be removed by the patient. They’re typically attached to dental implants and provide improved stability.