When we talk about replacing missing teeth, there are many options. Among them, dentures are regarded as a reliable, cost-effective and time-tested option for tooth replacement. Here’s everything you need to know about tooth replacement with dentures.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances which are used for replacing one or more missing natural teeth. They consist of a base which mimics the gums and oral soft tissues and is made of coloured resin. On the base, artificial teeth made from white coloured acrylic resin or porcelain are attached.
How Many Teeth Can Dentures Replace?
There are two types of dentures based on the number of teeth they can replace:
- Partial Dentures – these dentures are used for repairing one or multiple missing teeth. Partial dentures contain metallic extensions known as clasps which engage around the natural teeth and provide stability and retention. Partial dentures base is made from acrylic resins or metal alloys, while the partial both acrylic and porcelain teeth can be used with them.
- Complete Dentures – these dentures are used for replacing all missing teeth in a jaw. Complete dentures are made by using acrylic resins. Since there is no natural tooth left in the jaw in the case of full dentures, they rely solely on the underlying soft tissues and jaw bone for their support, stability and retention.
What are Different Types of Dentures?
Different types of dentures are available for replacing missing teeth:
- Conventional Dentures – these partial and complete dentures rely on the existing teeth and the oral soft tissues and jaw bone for their retention. A traditional denture is one of the most primitive options which have been used for replacing missing teeth.
- Overdentures – as the name suggests, these dentures rest on prepared roots of natural teeth, which provide them with enhanced stability and retention. As a result, overdentures provide improved chewing and speech capability in comparison to conventional dentures.
- Implant-Supported Overdentures – these dentures are like the overdentures. The only difference is instead of tooth roots; they derive their retention and stability from dental implants. Implant-supported overdentures can be used for both partial and complete tooth replacement. When they are used for complete tooth replacement, only four implants can be utilised to support a complete denture in each jaw. Such prostheses are known as implant-supported dentures.
- Immediate Dentures – the fabrication process of conventional dentures usually requires 2-3 visits. If any extractions have been planned, the number of these visits may increase, and the patients may have to wait for a longer time for healing to take place before they can get dentures. This is not acceptable for many patients. In these cases, dentists sometimes insert dentures immediately after damaged teeth are removed, so that patients do not have to live without their teeth.
How are Dentures Prepared?
Fabrication of Conventional Dentures
As discussed earlier, the fabrication process for dentures generally requires at least 2-3 sittings for completion.
- Clinical Examination and Treatment Planning – first, your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums and facial structures. They will also look at your study models and x-ray images to assess whether you are a suitable candidate for getting dentures, or if there is a need for restoring or extracting any teeth. All these procedures are performed before the process for denture fabrication can be initiated.
- Impression Making– during the next appointment, your dentists will make impressions of your teeth which will be used to design your dentures and to fabricate the acrylic base of the dentures. At this stage, your dentist will also record the shade and colour of your natural teeth and send this information to the dental laboratory.
- Bite Recording – in the next appointment, your dentist will record the biting position of your teeth by using wax wafers placed on the denture base. This bite helps the laboratory staff to place the artificial teeth in optimal alignment and angulation concerning the position of the jaws.
- The Try In – when you come for your next appointment, your dentist will try your dentures in which the teeth have been embedded in wax. If there is a need for any modification, your dentist will send the trial denture back to the lab for adjusting the occlusion. If everything goes well, the denture will be sent to the lab for final fabrication.
- Wearing your Dentures – once prepared dentures are received back from the laboratory; your dentist will insert them in your mouth and perform a final check for fit and aesthetics. Your dentist will also teach you about the correct method of wearing and removing your denture, and how to look after them. That’s it. You can now smile again with confidence!
Fabrication of Immediate Dentures
The fabrication process for immediate dentures is like conventional dentures with some modifications. Normally, if the extraction of teeth is indicated for patients, it is carried out before the procedure for denture fabrication is initiated. In this case, patients need to wait a few weeks until the extraction site heals before they can get their teeth replaced with dentures. For some patients, this is unacceptable.
This is where the immediate dentures become useful. Before the extraction surgery, the teeth which need to be extracted are removed from the study models and replaced with artificial teeth. This model is then used to prepare dentures with the new teeth, and as soon as the extraction is performed, the immediate dentures are inserted.
What are the Pros and Cons of Dentures?
Pros of Dentures
- Time-tested tooth replacement option
- Simple procedure
- Dentures can be repaired easily
- Can be removed for cleaning
- Can be disassembled for oral hygiene maintenance
- Can be placed by any dentist
Cons of Dentures
- Fracture easily if dropped
- Do not last for a very long time
- Dentures can get stained if they are not cleaned regularly
- Create problems during eating or speech
- Need to be repaired or replaced frequently.
How to Look After your Dentures?
If you want your dentures to serve you for a long time, then you should follow these instructions regarding their care:
- Remove Them While Sleeping – you should remove your dentures while sleeping and make sure to put them in a cleansing solution overnight.
- Cleaning – you should make a habit of removing your dentures every time after you eat or drink something and wash your dentures with lukewarm water. If you do not do this, there will be higher of your denture getting stained and promoting fungal growth.
- Dietary Precautions – dentures cannot provide you with the same biting efficiency you had with your teeth. They are also quite brittle. Therefore, you should make sure, not to eat anything hard as it may lead to their fracture. Similarly, eating sticky foods can also result in their dislodgement.
Restore Confidence: Let us Guide You Through The Denture Process
If you are tired of feeling embarrassed in front of your friends and colleagues because of your missing teeth, then dentures can solve your problem. At Enamel Dental Studio, our experienced dental team can provide you with tailored advice and ensure you feel totally comfortable and confident as we step you through the denture selection and fitting process.
Yes, it’s true, Dentures provide a cost-effective and reliable option for replacing missing teeth and an easy way to start the journey back to a more confident smile. Call us today to make an appointment.