Removable Dentures
Untreated full or partial tooth loss can increase the risk of having nutritional issues as well as other systemic health disorders, which can negatively impact a person's self-esteem. Full or partial dentures are a trustworthy and tried-and-true treatment option for this problem.
One of the most popular methods of replacing lost teeth is with dentures; other methods include fixed bridgework and dental implants. Every technique has unique benefits and drawbacks that should be carefully examined. Additionally, there are numerous types of dentures available, ranging from partial dentures to overdentures supported by implants, to address particular problems. Your particular situation will determine which choice is ideal for you.
How Do Removable Dentures Work?
A gum-colored base made of plastic resin that fits over the residual alveolar (bone) ridge where the teeth once stood makes up full or partial dentures. The artificial teeth that protrude from the base are made to appear and work exactly like your natural teeth. It is crucial that dentures are fitted correctly because the suction effect of their close fit against the alveolar ridges keeps them in place mainly. The big surface area of the palate (the roof of the mouth) provides additional support for the upper denture, which in general makes it very stable.
As the dentures "balance" in the area where the teeth once were, having dentures may initially require some getting used to in terms of speaking and eating. However, over time, the mouth's muscles, nerves, and ligaments learn to function in novel ways, enabling these processes to proceed normally. Dentures can also contribute to a more youthful look by supporting the soft tissues of the lips and cheeks as well as the facial skeleton.
Types of Full Dentures
Immediate Dentures: These are typically a short-term solution to assist you in making the switch to effective denture wearing. The dentures that are put in position right away after tooth extraction won't fit as well as permanent dentures manufactured when the healing is complete because of the necessary muscular readjustment as well as the natural shrinkage of gums. However, they give you brand-new teeth right away and allow you some adjusting time.
Conventional Full Dentures: With enough time, permanent dentures that almost perfectly fit your teeth can be created. These can last a very long period in your mouth and are expertly crafted to resemble your natural teeth as closely as possible.
Implant-Supported Overdentures: A lower or upper denture may be firmly anchored using two or more dental implants to improve its stability. Due to lower bone density, the upper jaw needs more implants (typically three or more) than the lower jaw. This choice, in the opinion of many people, provides an excellent mix of comfort, usefulness, and price.
Immediate Dentures: These are usually a temporary means of helping you transition to successful denture wearing. Because of the muscular readjustment required, as well as the natural shrinkage of gums, the dentures which are placed immediately after tooth extraction won't fit as well as permanent dentures made when the healing is complete. They do, however, provide you with new teeth right away, and give you time to adjust.
Conventional Full Dentures: After a period of time, permanent dentures that conform to your mouth with near-perfect accuracy can be fabricated. These are carefully crafted to look as much like your own natural teeth as possible, and are able to function properly in your mouth for a long time.
Implant-Supported Overdentures: To increase the stability of a lower or upper denture, it's possible for it to be securely anchored using two or more dental implants. The upper jaw requires more implants (generally three or more) than the lower jaw due to a lesser bone density. Many people find this option offers a great balance of comfort, functionality and value.
Types of Partial Dentures
Transitional Partial Dentures: These reasonably priced removable plastic dentures work as a temporary tooth replacement and space maintainer while you wait, for instance, for your mouth to recover following a tooth extraction. Dental implants can be inserted after the healing procedure is finished.
Removable Partial Dentures (RPDs): These well-built detachable partial dentures, which are typically made of cast vitallium, are much lighter and less noticeable than those made of plastic. They cost a bit more than plastic dentures, but they will suit you better. However, they are significantly less costly than fixed bridgework or implants.
How Dentures Are Made and Fitted
Denture fabrication is a combination of science and creativity. First, an exact mold of the alveolar ridges on the top and bottom of your jaw is created. This mold is used in a dentistry lab to create the denture's base. To recreate a natural-looking smile, the dentist and lab worker choose from a variety of prosthetic teeth in various sizes and shapes. A fixed version of the temporary dentures is created once everyone is happy with the outcome.
It's essential to balance your bite in order to speak and consume normally. As a result, the upper and lower dentures are correctly stabilized by one another. To ensure that the dentures are working and fitting correctly, their form and functionality are carefully examined.
What to Expect After You Get Dentures
You should expect some tissue shrinkage and bone loss if you recently lost your teeth and were fitted with an immediate prosthesis. As a result, you might discover that your immediate dentures no longer suit comfortably after a few months. At this juncture, you have two options to consider: Your immediate (temporary) teeth can be relined. This indicates that substance is introduced beneath the base of the denture to better fit the altered shape of your alveolar ridge. A set of conventional full dentures would be a superior choice because they would fit better and last longer. When maintained properly, dentures provide a practical, attractive, and cost-effective answer to the issue of tooth loss.