What are Dentures?
Dentures are a type of removable appliance that can be used to replace missing teeth. They are custom designed to fit your individual smile and are kept in place by clasps around your existing teeth or through suction. In some cases, glue or adhesive gels may also be used to keep the denture in place.
There are two types of dentures available:
- Partial dentures are used to replace one or several missing teeth and rely on existing teeth for support.
- Full dentures are used to replace a complete set of teeth on both the upper and lower sections of the jaw. They are fabricated from either acrylic or metal with prosthetic teeth attached.
Dentures help to restore speech, chewing function, and the appearance of your smile while providing extra support for your facial tissues. However, it is important to properly maintain and remove dentures at night to retain the integrity of your dental appliance and preserve the health of your gum tissue.
Types of Dentures
Complete Denture
A complete denture is a removable device that replaces all teeth in a jaw when they have been lost. It is exclusively tissue-supported and is constructed when there are no more teeth left in an arch. It can be opposed by natural dentition, partial or complete denture, fixed appliances, or soft tissues.
Overdentures
An overdenture is a removable appliance that is placed over the remaining roots or implants in the jaw. It provides better support and stability for the prosthesis compared to traditional complete dentures. The lower jaw has less surface area than the upper jaw, so it’s more challenging to retain a lower prosthesis. Therefore, mandibular overdentures are prescribed more frequently than maxillary overdentures, where the palate can provide enough support.
Flexible dentures
Flexible dentures are typically made of thermoplastic materials such as nylon, which provide unique benefits compared to traditional dentures. They are thin, flexible, and comfortable, and do not absorb stains or odors. Additionally, they offer an aesthetically pleasing and natural appearance.
Cast Partial Denture
A denture is a device used to replace missing teeth, consisting of a removable plate or frame holding one or more artificial teeth. On the other hand, a cast partial denture (CPD) is a removable partial denture that contains artificial teeth set in an acrylic resin, with a cast metal framework. Compared to conventional acrylic dentures, CPDs are stronger, more durable, and have better retention.
Implant-supported dentures:
Implant-supported dentures are a type of modern prosthetic that combines the stability of dental implants with the convenience of removable dentures. To receive this treatment, a patient must first undergo an initial consultation with a dentist to develop a personalized treatment plan. At Asian Dental, we provide a comfortable and supportive environment to ensure that our patients receive the care they deserve.
During the implant-supported denture installation process, an oral surgeon will surgically place four to six titanium screws into the patient’s jawbone, known as osseointegration. After a period of three to six months, the implants fuse with the jawbone tissue, creating a strong foundation for the dentures. Once attached, the dentures cannot be removed without the assistance of a dentist.
Advantages of implant-supported dentures include:
- Preventing bone tissue loss by stimulating the patient’s gums
- Natural feel and appearance in the mouth
- No adjustment period necessary
- Easy maintenance and care, similar to real teeth
- Ability to enjoy favorite foods once again
However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for implant-supported dentures. The dentist will assess the patient’s jawbone tissue to ensure that there is enough healthy tissue to support the implants. In some cases, bone grafting or artificial bone tissue may be necessary to prepare for the procedure.
FAQs
Dental braces are orthodontic devices that are used to straighten and align teeth. They typically consist of metal brackets that are attached to the teeth and connected by wires.
Dental braces can benefit both children and adults who have misaligned or crooked teeth, bite problems, or other orthodontic issues.
The length of time someone needs to wear braces can vary depending on the severity of their orthodontic issues. Typically, braces need to be worn for one to three years.
Proper care for braces includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding hard or sticky foods that can damage the braces, and visiting the dentist or orthodontist for regular check-ups and adjustments. Special tools such as floss threaders and interdental brushes can be used to clean around the brackets and wires.
