A denture is a
removable dental appliance
replacement for missing teeth and
surrounding tissue. They
are made to closely resemble your
natural teeth and may even enhance
your smile. Although implants are ideally
used to replace missing teeth there are many situations where dentures are the only viable option.
There are two types
of dentures - complete and partial
dentures. Complete
dentures are used when all of the
teeth are missing, while partial
dentures are used when some natural
teeth remain. A Partial
denture not only fills in the spaces
created by missing teeth, it
prevents other teeth from shifting.
A Complete denture
may be either “conventional” or
“immediate.” A
conventional type is made after the
teeth have been removed and the gum
tissue has healed, usually taking 4
to 6 weeks. During this time
the patient will go without teeth.
Immediate dentures are made in
advance and immediately placed after
the teeth are removed, thus
preventing the patient from having
to be without teeth during the
healing process. Once the
tissues shrink and heal, adjustments
will have to be made.
Dentures are very durable
appliances and will last many years,
but may have to be remade, repaired,
or readjusted due to normal wear.
Reasons for dentures:
-
Complete Denture - Loss of
all teeth in an arch.
-
Partial Denture - Loss of
several teeth in an arch.
-
Enhancing smile and facial
tissues.
-
Improving chewing, speech,
and digestion.
What does getting dentures
involve?
The process of getting
dentures requires several
appointments, usually over
several weeks. Highly accurate
impressions (molds) and measurements
are taken and used to create your
custom denture. Several
“try-in” appointments may be
necessary to ensure proper shape,
color, and fit. At the final
appointment, Dr. Lee will precisely
adjust and place the completed
denture, ensuring a natural and
comfortable fit.
It is normal to experience
increased saliva flow, some
soreness, and possible speech and
chewing difficulty, however this
will subside as your muscles and
tissues get used to the new
dentures.
You will be given care
instructions for your new dentures.
Proper cleaning of your new dental
appliance, good oral hygiene, and
regular dental visits will aid in
the life of your new dentures.
