Dentures are a common tooth replacement option and one of the oldest methods available. But did you know that there are two different types of dentures? You can either get partial dentures, which only replace certain teeth, or full dentures, which replace an entire section. Each of these dentures can be done in a few different ways
How do you choose which type of denture is right for your oral health and for your lifestyle?
Before leaping into the choice, it is smart to find out if dentures are exactly what is needed. For a single missing tooth, something like a dental implant or a bridge is required. However, when multiple teeth are missing and in need of replacement, dentures are an extremely cost-effective method.
Partial dentures are recommended when tooth loss is not total. If there are perfectly healthy teeth remaining in the gumline, partial dentures can fill the gaps. Partial dentures are usually made of nylon polymer or acrylic resin but can be crafted out of a metal like a chrome-cobalt alloy.
The new “teeth” are attached to a gum-colored plastic base fitted to the patient’s mouth. Sometimes, partial dentures are held in place by being connected to the existing teeth using a metal or ceramic connecting frame. These clasps can attach to existing natural teeth or to crowns, so if existing natural teeth need to be repaired, partial dentures are still an option.
Partial dentures generally are also removable, which is what separates them from bridges in definition.
Complete dentures are necessary when the patient is missing an entire arch of missing teeth, as in the entire upper or lower set of teeth. Complete dentures replace the entire section with one custom-molded appliance.
The base of the dentures is usually made out of polymethyl methacrylate, which is a type of acrylic that not only looks natural but is actually designed to repel bacteria. The gum and teeth are custom-molded by both a lab technician and a dentist and built to look as natural as possible. It can take a few visits to get it all right, from the molding to creation, testing and adjustment.
No prosthetic is ever going to feel as good as the natural part it replaces, but dentures have come a long way in recent years.
Partial dentures are less cumbersome because they do not take up as much space and are attached to natural teeth. Complete dentures can take some getting used to, and you may have trouble with your normal speech until you make the adjustment.
Complete dentures are generally held on by suction, which is fairly effective. However, adhesives can be used to increase the connection, especially when anticipating a more difficult meal.
Do not make the decision on your own: What kind of dentures you need will depend greatly on the condition of your current teeth, jaw and general oral health. Consult a dentist to find out more.
Are you considering dentures in the Tucson area? Get more dentures information at https://www.tucsonazdentistry.com.
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