Partial vs. Full Dentures
Today’s advanced dentures offer numerous options for people who have lost some or all of their teeth. Our patients in the Kansas City area have discovered the benefits of both complete and partial dentures.
Complete Dentures
A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth. There are two main categories of dentures: Complete and partial.
Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing. It is held in place by creating a seal with the gums or by connecting it to dental implants surgically placed in the bone of the jaws.
In addition, complete dentures can be either “conventional” or “immediate.”
- Immediate dentures are made in advance and can be worn immediately, without waiting for the gums to heal. Immediate dentures are often used on a temporary basis until gums heal and can be fitted with conventional dentures.
- Conventional dentures generally aren’t used until about eight to 12 weeks after teeth have been removed. This allows time for the gums to heal and the dentures to be created.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are an option if some healthy teeth remain. A partial denture is a removable denture with just a few teeth attached to a gum-colored base. The framework is attached to nearby teeth or gums with a clasp to hold it in place. In another method, internal attachments connect to crowns placed on adjacent teeth to hold the partial in place. A denture using internal attachments is called a “precision partial.”
Why Get Dentures?
When a person is missing teeth, he or she can face a variety of problems, from difficulty eating to distress over their appearance. A cosmetic dentist can help overcome these problems with dentures.
Dentures do more than just fill in the spaces created by missing teeth, they:
- Keep remaining teeth from moving out of position.
- Restore your smile by replacing missing or badly damaged teeth.
- Improve your appearance.
- Fill out your lips, checks, and facial muscles for a more natural look.
- Improve your speech and eating by functioning like real teeth
Common Questions About Dentures
- What do new dentures feel like? New dentures may feel a little awkward or loose for a few weeks until the muscles learn how to keep them in place. It is common for some minor soreness to occur. You may also notice increased saliva flow. These problems will diminish as your mouth adjusts.
- Will eating with new dentures be difficult? Eating with new dentures will take some practice. For some wearers, eating may be uncomfortable for a few weeks. If you are starting out with dentures, try soft foods cut into small pieces. You will eventually be able to return to a normal diet. You should avoid foods that are extremely sticky or hard.
- How do you care for dentures? You will get specific instructions, but, in general, you will care for your mouth, gums, and dentures by practicing good oral hygiene: Brush your gums, tongue and roof of your mouth with a soft-bristled toothbrush before inserting your dentures. Use a non-abrasive cleaner on your dentures. We can advise you on the correct products to use. When you are not wearing your dentures, make sure they are kept covered in water or a denture solution to prevent warping.
More Information about Dentures
Today’s dentures offer a number of options. Please contact us to discuss your concerns and find out if dentures can be an effective tooth replacement option for you.