Dentures are primarily prosthetic devices that are used to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. The false teeth on the devices are generally made of either plastic or porcelain with the base being either acyclic or plastic in nature.

Types of Dentures

Dentures are mainly of two types; complete and partial dentures. As the name suggests, complete dentures come into play when all the natural teeth are missing while partial dentures are normally used to give support to the few natural teeth that still remain.

  • Complete Dentures

Complete dentures can be further categorised as either "immediate" or "conventional." The main difference between the two dentures is their date of manufacture. While the conventional denture is made only after the removal of the teeth and the complete heal of the gum tissue, immediate dentures are made in advance. Therefore, immediate dentures can be placed immediately after the teeth removal procedure, while the conventional dentures are fitted only about 2 to 3 months after the removal of the teeth. With the immediate dentures, you won't have to spend a single day toothless during the healing period. The immediate dentures will require readjustments though as your gums and jaws will shrink causing the shape of your mouth to change over time. It is best to look at immediate dentures as a temporary solution until the completion of conventional dentures.

  • Partial Dentures

When a fair number of teeth still remain in either the upper jaw or the lower jaw, patients resort to using partial dentures. A fixed partial denture places crowns on the teeth on either side of a gap to secure artificial teeth to them and it is then cemented into place. Partial dentures is basically useful for filling the missing teeth gap and averting other teeth from shifting around.

Advantages of Dentures

  • Helps in pronouncing words and masticating: People with missing anterior teeth often find it difficult to pronounce words containing fricatives or sibilants. Although it may seem difficult to get the words right immediately after getting the teeth replaced, you will see marked improvement with a bit of a practice and you will adjust over time. After being fitted with dentures, you will also not have any dietary restrictions anymore as you will be able to eat your solid food with ease.
  • Improves appearance: Well-fitted dentures will not change the shape of your face. In fact, the dentures will provide support for the cheeks and lips enabling you to retain your previous appearance.

Contact a professional such as Alan Hunt with any questions or concerns you have.

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