Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace missing teeth and the nearby gum areas. They help you chew and speak more comfortably and support the natural shape of your mouth when teeth are missing.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are custom-made, removable devices that replace some or all missing teeth. They are made from materials such as acrylic, metal, or flexible polymers and are carefully fitted to match the shape of your mouth.
Depending on how many teeth are missing, you may need a full denture (replacing all teeth in the upper or lower jaw) or a partial denture (replacing only a few missing teeth while keeping your remaining natural ones).
When teeth are missing, nearby teeth can move out of position, and the jawbone in those areas can slowly change shape. Dentures help support facial structure and allow for even chewing across your mouth.
Types of Dentures
Full (Complete) Dentures
Full dentures are used when all teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. The denture fits over the gums and stays in place through natural suction, saliva, or denture adhesive. Upper dentures usually cover the roof of the mouth, while lower dentures are shaped to allow for tongue movement. It can take a few weeks to adjust to wearing them.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They fill the gaps left by missing teeth and are supported by a mix of gums and nearby teeth. Small clasps or attachments may be used to help them stay in place. Partial dentures can be made from acrylic, metal, or flexible materials, depending on the design and strength needed.
Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures are placed on the same day that teeth are removed. They act as a temporary option while your gums heal after extractions. Because the gums and bone change shape as they heal, these dentures often need adjustments or relining after a few months.
Implant-Supported Dentures
For some patients, dentures can be supported by dental implants placed in the jawbone. The denture attaches to these implants for added stability. This may be an option if you find it difficult to keep conventional dentures in place. Implant-supported dentures can be removable for cleaning or fixed in place, depending on the case.
Sometimes, the pulp may die without causing significant pain, and infection is detected only through X-rays or examination. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can help preserve the tooth.
