Tooth loss can occur for various reasons, including periodontitis, disease, or poor dental hygiene. If you have experienced tooth loss, dentures may be a suitable option for you. Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. There are two types of dentures: complete and partial. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain.

Reasons for Dentures:

• Completely replace missing teeth in an arch

• Replace some missing teeth in an arch

• Enhance the smile and provide facial support

• Restore chewing and speech

• Improve digestion

Types of Dentures:

Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing. They can be either “conventional” or “immediate.” Conventional dentures are made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, which usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. During this period, the patient goes without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and placed immediately after the teeth are removed, preventing the patient from being without teeth during the healing process. Adjustments will be necessary once the tissues shrink and heal.

Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They not only fill in the spaces created by missing teeth but also prevent other teeth from shifting.

Dentures are durable appliances and can last many years, though they may need to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.

What Does Getting Dentures Involve?

The process of getting dentures requires several appointments over a few weeks. Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken to create your custom denture. Several “try-in” appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit. At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture to ensure a natural and comfortable fit.

It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulties. However, these issues will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.

You will receive care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will help extend the life of your new dentures.