What are Dentures?
Dentures are prosthetic replacements for missing teeth, allowing individuals to maintain their facial structure, chew effectively, and speak clearly. They can be used for a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, or, as needed, an entire set.
Replacing teeth that are missing can play an important role in maintaining your oral health. For those who have lost multiple or all of their natural teeth, dentures may serve as a suitable and cost-effective method of restoration.
Types of Dentures
Whether a single tooth, a series of teeth, or all teeth require replacement, your dental provider can support your selection of the most appropriate denture type based on your needs.
- Full Dentures
If you have lost all your natural teeth, your dentist may recommend full dentures, also called complete dentures.
These can be placed in either the top, bottom, or both gum areas and typically stay in position with natural suction or a suitable adhesive as recommended.
Full dentures are designed to be removed as needed for thorough cleaning and during sleep.
- Partial Dentures
If one or several teeth are missing, your dentist may advise a partial denture. Partial dentures may be the preferred removable therapy, particularly if nearby teeth cannot accommodate a fixed bridge.
Partial dentures consist of replacement teeth anchored on or around existing natural teeth.
They are intended to be removed for cleaning and while sleeping.
- Implant-Supported Dentures
Designed to function and appear closely to natural teeth, implant-supported dentures may offer increased stability and comfort because of their secure fit. These can be intended as durable solutions that preserve normal biting and chewing ability.
Depending on the design and placement, some implant-supported dentures can only be removed by a dental professional.
Why Dentures May Be Used
The loss of several or all teeth can affect facial muscle support, and changing jaw alignment may impact appearance. Dentures can help restore and support the contours of your face while closely matching your natural teeth so overall appearance is maintained.
Restoring areas where teeth are missing may also support adult oral health by preventing further shifting of existing teeth, which is associated with elevated risks of other concerns, including conditions that impact the gums. Dentures may also support ability with speech and facilitate normal eating patterns.