Dentures are crucial for replacing missing teeth and restoring facial structure so that your jaw looks fuller and healthier. Dentures come in many different types and varieties, and it is the job of your dentist to determine which prosthetic is right for you. Dentures are considered a cosmetic procedure, but they are also crucial for the overall health and functioning of the person wearing them. They restore biting surfaces so that the patient can finally eat normally again while feeling confident about the way that they look.
When are Dentures needed?
Dentures are often needed after multiple tooth extractions have been done. If someone is prone to decay or has multiple decayed teeth, they may be removed to make room for a denture. Other patients may benefit from a partial denture where only a few teeth are replaced in an easy-to-wear prosthetic.
Types of Dentures
There are several types of dentures available and it is the dentist’s job to determine which one is best for you according to your oral health and dental needs. Some of the most common dentures include:
- Full Dentures – These dentures involve an entire plate of prosthetic teeth, often made using acrylic, to restore the smile. The upper plate includes a gum-colored palate while the lower looks more like a horseshoe to make room for the tongue and improve the comfort of the patient.
- Partial Dentures – This prosthetic includes only a few replacement teeth and is often worn by a patient who still has a good number of healthy teeth remaining in the mouth.
The Dentures procedure
Depending on what type of work you will need to have done, you will be fitted for a denture using impression material. Conventional dentures are used for patients who have just had teeth removed and will allow the gums to heal before a denture is placed. Immediate dentures are ideal for patients who want to have a full smile immediately after having the teeth extracted. In some cases, immediate dentures need to be adjusted after the gums have fully healed to provide a proper fit. If you have implants, dentures can be made to fit securely on the implants for a snug and comfortable fit. It is also not uncommon to have to make several trips to the dentist to have the dentures adjusted for a more comfortable fit in the mouth.