A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth. When you are missing teeth, you may experience a variety of problems with confidence, speaking and eating certain foods. Dentures are custom made to replace your missing teeth and help restore your smile, mouth function and confidence. While dentures may never feel exactly the same as your natural teeth, today’s state-of-the-art technology means dentures look and feel more realistic than ever before.
If you’ve lost your natural teeth, whether from gum disease, tooth decay or injury, replacing them with dentures will benefit your appearance and your health. For help finding a local dental professional, search for a dentist near you.
Common Types of Dentures
There are two main types of dentures: full and partial. Your dentist 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 Dentures
Full dentures are made of a plastic resin base that is gum colored and supports a full set of plastic or porcelain teeth. A full denture is traditionally held in the mouth by forming a seal with the gum, but they can also be held in place by attaching to dental implants.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are typically used after a tooth extraction and worn temporarily for healing. Once the healing is complete, you are ready for permanent dental implants.
The only way to determine what kind of denture is best for you is by making an appointment with your dentist. They can then examine your mouth and tooth loss and give you their recommended treatment plan.
What Are The Benefits of Having Dentures?
While new dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them, dentures offer many, long-lasting benefits, including:
- Restoring the function of your teeth
- Maintaining your ability to chew, speak and bite
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Regaining confidence
- May improve your speech
Follow-up appointments with the dentist are generally needed so the fit of your dentures can be checked and adjusted. If you have any problem, particularly with irritation or soreness, be sure to contact your dentist.
How Do I Get Dentures?
The best starting point to see if dentures are an option for you is to see your dentist, who may then recommend that you see a prosthodontist, a specialist who focuses on the restoration and replacement of teeth, including dentures. To find a dental office near you, visit our locations page.