Types of Dentures
1. Partial Dentures
- Used when some natural teeth are still present.
- Partial dentures fill in the gaps left by missing teeth and can be attached to the remaining natural teeth using clasps or precision attachments.
- These dentures help to maintain the position of remaining teeth and prevent them from shifting.
2. Complete Dentures
- Used when all natural teeth are missing.
- Complete dentures replace an entire row of missing teeth, either in the upper or lower jaw, or both.
- These dentures are designed to fit comfortably over the gums, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits.
Benefits of Dentures
- Restoration of Function: Dentures help restore the ability to chew and speak properly, allowing you to enjoy a wide range of foods and communicate clearly.
- Improved Appearance: Dentures fill in the gaps left by missing teeth, enhancing the overall appearance of your smile and preventing your facial muscles from sagging.
- Boosted Confidence: With dentures, you can feel confident about your smile again, improving your self-esteem and social interactions.
- Non-invasive Solution: Dentures offer a non-surgical alternative to replace missing teeth, making them a great choice for many patients.
The Denture Process
1. Initial Consultation:
We will assess your oral health and discuss your options for dentures. We take impressions of your mouth to create custom-fitted dentures.
2. Creating the Dentures:
Based on the impressions, we work with a dental laboratory to create your dentures. This process usually takes several visits over several weeks.
3. Fitting the Dentures:
Based on the impressions, we work with a dental laboratory to create your dentures. This process usually takes several visits over several weeks.
4. Follow-up Visits:
After getting your dentures, it may take some time to adjust. You will return to us for follow-up appointments to make sure your dentures fit well and are comfortable.
Caring for Dentures
Cleaning:
Dentures should be cleaned daily to remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup. Use a denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner to gently clean your dentures.
Soaking:
When not in use, store dentures in a denture cleaning solution or water to prevent them from drying out and losing their shape (acrylic dentures).
Regular Check-ups:
Over time, your gums may change shape, so it’s important to have regular check-ups to ensure your dentures fit well and remain comfortable.
Types of Dentures Available
Dentures are a great solution for replacing missing teeth, and there are several types to suit different needs and preferences. The main types of dentures available include acrylic, cobalt chrome, and implant-retained overdentures. Here’s a breakdown of each type:
1. Acrylic Dentures (Complete or Partial)
Acrylic dentures are the most common type of dentures. They are typically made from a type of plastic known as acrylic resin and are used for both complete and partial dentures.
Characteristics:
- Material: Made of lightweight, durable acrylic resin.
- Fit and Comfort: Acrylic dentures are typically made to fit snugly against your gums and can be easily adjusted if needed.
- Cost: Acrylic dentures are often more affordable compared to other materials.
- Appearance: The acrylic material is naturally pink and blends well with the gums, making them look more natural.
- Suitability: Suitable for those who need full dentures (if all teeth are missing) or partial dentures (if some teeth are missing).
Benefits:
- Cost-effective.
- Can be customised to match your other teeth.
- Can be adjusted or relined for better comfort if necessary.
Disadvantages:
- Less durable than other materials like cobalt chrome.
- Acrylic dentures may wear down more quickly.
- Can feel bulkier in the mouth compared to metal-based dentures.
2. Cobalt Chrome Dentures (Metal Framework Dentures)
Cobalt chrome dentures are partial dentures that feature a strong, metal framework made from a combination of cobalt and chromium. These dentures are often used when you have some remaining natural teeth and need a partial denture.
Characteristics:
- Material: Made from a metal alloy (cobalt-chromium), which makes them more durable and lightweight compared to acrylic dentures.
- Framework: Cobalt chrome dentures feature a metal framework that fits securely onto the remaining teeth. The replacement teeth are then attached to this framework.
- Durability: Known for their strength, cobalt chrome dentures are more durable than acrylic dentures.
- Fit and Comfort: The metal framework can be more precisely designed to fit your mouth, and they are often smaller and more comfortable than acrylic dentures.
Benefits:
- Durability: Cobalt chrome is a very strong material, so these dentures last longer.
- Less Bulky: The metal framework is thinner than acrylic, providing a more comfortable fit.
- Secure Fit: The metal framework attaches securely to natural teeth, making these dentures less likely to shift or move.
- Stain Resistance: Metal-based dentures don’t stain as easily as acrylic dentures.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: Cobalt chrome dentures are typically more expensive than acrylic dentures.
- Adjustments: They can be more difficult to adjust or add teeth onto if changes are needed in future.
- Appearance: The metal framework can incorporate clasps to help them grip which can sometimes be visible, which may affect aesthetics, especially for front teeth.
3. Implant-Retained Overdentures
Implant-retained overdentures are dentures that are anchored in place by dental implants. These are used to replace full or partial rows of missing teeth and are secured onto implants that are surgically placed into the jawbone.
Characteristics:
- Material: The dentures themselves are usually made from acrylic, ceramic, or a combination of materials. The key difference is the retention system, which involves dental implants.
- Retention: These overdentures are supported and held in place by dental implants rather than relying on the gums or remaining teeth for stability.
- Stability: Implant-retained overdentures provide much more stability compared to traditional removable dentures.
- Bone Preservation: Dental implants help prevent bone loss in the jaw, as they stimulate the bone like natural teeth do.
Benefits:
- Stability and Retention: Unlike traditional dentures, implant-retained overdentures are secured by implants, reducing the risk of slipping or shifting.
- Comfort: They tend to feel more like natural teeth and are less bulky than traditional dentures.
- Bone Health: Dental implants help preserve jawbone structure, preventing bone loss that typically occurs after tooth loss.
- No Need for Adhesives: Implant-retained overdentures eliminate the need for denture adhesives.
- Better Functionality: These overdentures provide superior functionality for chewing, speaking, and overall comfort.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: Implant-retained overdentures are more expensive due to the need for dental implants and the associated surgical procedure.
- Time-Consuming: The process of placing dental implants and allowing them to heal can take several months.
- Surgical Procedure: Dental implants require a surgical procedure, which may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with insufficient bone density.
