Dentures have been a popular and effective tooth replacement solution for centuries. As restorative dentistry has advanced, the types of dentures available have also evolved to provide greater functionality, comfort, and aesthetic appeal. Today, various types of dentures suit individual needs, preferences, and budgets. 

Whether you have lost teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury, dentures can restore your smile, enhance your facial structure, and improve your ability to eat and speak. This blog will dig deep into the different types of dentures and their unique advantages, helping you make an informed decision for your oral health.

Complete Dentures 

They are used when all teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. These dentures are custom-made to fit the unique shape of a person's mouth and can be either conventional or immediate.

Conventional complete dentures are made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed. This process can take several weeks or even months when the patient is without teeth. However, once the dentures are ready, they generally provide a more precise and comfortable fit.

On the other hand, immediate complete dentures are made in advance and can be placed as soon as the teeth are removed. This option allows the wearer to have teeth during the healing period, but they may require additional adjustments for optimal fit once the gums have fully healed.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are designed for individuals who have some natural teeth remaining. They comprise replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored base, often connected by a metal framework that holds the denture in place. These dentures fill gaps created by missing teeth and prevent the remaining natural teeth from shifting position.

There are two primary types of partial dentures: removable and fixed. Removable partial dentures can be removed for cleaning and maintenance, while fixed partial dentures, also known as dental bridges, are cemented into place and can only be removed by a dentist.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures offer an innovative and highly stable solution for those who require full or partial dentures. As the name suggests, these dentures are secured in place by dental implants, which are surgically placed in the jawbone. The dentures then attach to the implants for a secure and comfortable fit.

This type of denture offers several advantages over traditional dentures. The implants provide a strong foundation, ensuring dentures do not slip or move while eating or speaking. Additionally, implant-supported dentures can help preserve bone density in the jaw, as the implants stimulate the bone, preventing the bone loss that often occurs with traditional dentures.

Overdentures

Overdentures, or overdenture prostheses, are a hybrid between traditional and implant-supported dentures. They are designed to fit over the remaining natural teeth or dental implants, providing additional stability and support.

Dentists recommend it often for patients with a few strong natural teeth remaining, as it allows for better chewing ability and reduces the pressure on the gums. Overdentures can also be a more affordable alternative to complete implant-supported dentures, as fewer implants are required.

Conclusion

Dentures can be a great way to restore your smile and improve oral health. Depending on your individual needs and lifestyle, several types of dentures are available. No matter what type of denture you choose, it is essential to take good care of them, just as you would with your natural teeth. With proper care and regular check-ups with your dentist, dentures can be a long-term solution to your oral health needs.

Consider getting dentures if you are afraid to flash your pearly whites because of their imperfection. With Vivid Dentistry to help you, you will feel confident to smile again. We will carefully examine your teeth to determine which restorative dentistry solution will work best for you, so schedule an appointment now!