Dentures are replacements for your natural teeth. Unlike dental bridges that form a permanent bond with other teeth, you are able to remove dentures from your mouth. Dentures are custom-made from an impression taken from your mouth to look just like natural teeth. This also ensures that they are comfortable to wear. Dentures can replace all of your teeth, or, partial dentures can replace just a few of your missing teeth.
There are three types of dentures: conventional full dentures, immediate full dentures, and partial dentures. For each, an impression will be taken of your mouth, which will then be sent to the lab to be made. They are created with flesh-colored acrylic to match the color of your gums.
Conventional full dentures come in two pieces. The base of the upper piece covers the palate of your mouth to hold it in place, and the bottom piece is shaped like a horseshoe to make a space for your tongue. If any remaining teeth have to be removed to accommodate your dentures, you must wait until the tissue has healed before you can wear them.
Immediate full dentures come in the same two pieces as conventional dentures, but they are placed in your mouth as soon as any remaining teeth are removed. The drawback, however, is that they will need to be realigned just a few months after their placement to ensure that they have not shifted or loosened.
Partial dentures sit on a metal frame, which attaches to your healthy natural teeth. Keep in mind, though, that dental crowns may need to be added to some of your teeth to make sure the frame is anchored securely.
Here are a few signs that you may need dentures:
If any of the above applies to you, be sure to contact our team at West Lakes Dentistry to discuss whether dentures are the right option for you.
