Types of Dentures

At first glance one would assume there are only two different types of dentures at Brook West family Dentistry, a full denture covering the entire arch that has lost all of the teeth and a partial denture in which there are some natural teeth remaining that the partial denture can use as a stabilizing anchor. Upon doing some research there are a number of variations of each. All of us are different and that is also true when dealing with oral health concerns. When it comes to addressing your situation and the best solution to improve that situation some of the variables will not be appropriate. We all love our options though. Here is a closer look at those variations.

Full Dentures and the Options

The first option is the tradition full denture. Sitting on the top of the gum and held in place with a small amount of adhesive the dentures are fabricated in a dental lab. They consist of an acrylic tray with the artificial teeth affixed to the tissue colored tray. With the recent advancements in dental technology the dentures of today are getting better and better in replacing natural teeth. The next option is when more time and dollars are spent on the quality of the actual teeth used. A third option is putting together two approaches. That is taking the denture and anchoring it with several implants. The implants are fused to the jawbone so this method provides a solid foundation. An immediate denture is one that is placed the same day the teeth or extracted. You must be a good candidate for this type. A snap-in denture takes the post of the implant procedure and uses that as the stabilizing anchor. So, you can have two to four posts to secure the dentures. Any and all of these options are totally removable and require special oral care or attention.

Partial Dentures and the Options

Any professional in the dental industry will do everything in their power to help you maintain your natural teeth. If this is the case then you are a candidate for a partial denture. With the artificial teeth sitting on a metal framework this framework hooks to your natural teeth and uses them for stability. Very much like a dental bridge except they remain removable.

Proper Care of your Dentures

All the options above require regular, habitual attention. You will want to brush your dentures, inside and out, with a denture cream. Regular toothpaste is too abrasive for your dentures. Place them every evening in cold water. Hot water will warp them. Do not let them dry out either. Dentures can stain just like your natural teeth so you may need to take steps to whiten them. Your dentures, full or partial, are an important part of who you are. Create the good habit of seeing your dentist twice a year for regular evaluations. The teeth will wear with time and your face will change with time affecting how the dentures fit. You will need to revisit changing them through the years.

More on Dentures : Partial Dentures