Dentures & Partials
Dentures are replacements for missing teeth that can be taken out and put back into your mouth. While dentures take some getting used to, and will never feel exactly the same as one’s natural teeth, today’s dentures are natural looking and more comfortable than ever.
There are two main types of dentures: full and partial. Dr. Nelson will help you choose the type of denture that’s best for you based on whether some or all of your teeth are going to be replaced and the cost involved.
Full or Complete Dentures
Full dentures are used to replace teeth after they have all been removed. The teeth are usually removed due to gum disease or decay. Dentures are used to replace the missing teeth and can be either conventional or immediate. Conventional dentures are usually placed after all of the teeth have been removed and the gums have begun to heal, usually after about 12 weeks. Immediate dentures are placed immediately after the teeth have been removed. Immediate dentures allow the patient to have teeth during the healing process but will most likely need to be realigned or redesigned after healing is complete as the gums will shift and change during this time.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are a device that is used when one or more natural teeth remain healthy in the upper or lower jaw. Partial dentures are designed to fit around the remaining healthy teeth and can be either removable or fixed. Removable partial dentures can be removed from the mouth for cleaning or eating. Fixed partial dentures are the same as a removable partial denture, except that it is cemented into place using the adjacent teeth for support.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant supported dentures are snapped into place on top of dental implants. This provides a secure fit and hold, eliminating looseness or slipping without the need for paste or adhesives. Implant supported dentures are designed so that they can be removed for regular cleaning, or you can opt for fixed implant supported dentures, which function as permanent teeth.