A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing
teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your
natural teeth and may even enhance your smile.
There are two types of dentures - complete and partial dentures.
Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while
partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A Partial
denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it
prevents other teeth from shifting.
A Complete denture may be either "conventional" or
"immediate." A conventional type is made after the
teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking
4 to 6 weeks. During this time the patient will go without teeth.
Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after
the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to
be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink
and heal, adjustments will have to be made.
Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but
may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.
Reasons for dentures:
Complete Denture - Loss of all teeth in an arch
Partial Denture - Loss of several teeth in an arch
Enhancing smile and facial tissues
Improving chewing, speech, and digestion
What does getting dentures involve?
The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually
over several weeks. Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements
are taken and used 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, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.
It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and
possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside
as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.
You will be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper
cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular
dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.
"Drs. John and Missy have been excellent dentists, have allayed my fears and anxieties, and have made me feel welcome and treated me with great respect and confidence. All the staff have been unfailingly courteous and professional and I recommend them to ALL!"