A denture is a tooth replacement option which replaces all or most of the teeth on the upper or lower arch. Those patients missing all of the natural teeth in their mouth wear a set of dentures. Dentures help prevent the effects of missing teeth like sagging facial muscles or bone atrophy. Additionally, dentures allow the patient to speak, eat, chew and smile normally, something that is often taken for granted by those who do not experience tooth loss.
Types of Dentures
- Complete Dentures: Complete dentures benefit patients who are missing all of the teeth in their upper or lower arch. Complete dentures are often the most recognizable style of denture, with an entire arch which fits into a person’s mouth. The fit of complete dentures is important as they are not anchored into the mouth by anything other than suction.
- Partial Dentures: Partial dentures correct your smile when you have one or several remaining healthy teeth. The denture fits over the teeth and uses them to anchor itself into place. This also prevents your remaining teeth from shifting to compensate for the missing teeth around them.
- Immediate Dentures: Some patients need their remaining natural teeth extracted before they can wear dentures. If this is the case, immediate dentures fabricated before the teeth are extracted, allow the patient to wear their dentures the same day as extraction. This prevents the wearer from going without teeth while their extraction sites heal.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: This style of denture takes advantage of dental implant technology. Titanium posts implanted into the bone underneath your missing teeth anchor the denture into place, preventing it from moving or coming out.
Caring For Your Dentures
While dentures are made to be as durable as possible, they are, unfortunately, not unbreakable. Much like your natural teeth, they can chip, become discolored or break altogether. To prevent this from happening, it is necessary to commit to a great at-home oral care routine. Clean your dentures using a brush and cleaner made specifically for dentures. It is never a bad idea to place a folded towel underneath your work area so, if they fall, the dentures have a cushion to fall onto to prevent damage. Lastly, soak your dentures when they are not in use.
Book a FREE consultation with Maryvale Denture Clinic to see what dentures best suit your needs. info@maryvaledentureclinic.com or call 416-449-8331