Dentures

Dentures are removable natural looking prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth. Although they will improve your overall appearance, dentures are not meant to feel like your natural teeth so it will take some time to get used to. There are different types of conventional dentures that are available, complete dentures, partial dentures, and one-hour dentures. Read below to get more information on each one! 

Complete Dentures:

One of the most affordable options to replace all missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw is conventional removable complete dentures. They do not have the retention that implant-supported dentures provide so they are typically held in place with denture adhesive. It takes a lot of time and effort to get used to traditional complete dentures. These dentures are limited to about 20% function when compared to natural teeth. There is also a limit to the types of food that you can chew. There will need to be a couple adjustments for this type of denture because the gums will need to get use to it. Complete dentures are custom made in a lab and last about 5-10 years. 

Partial Dentures:

When a few teeth are missing in the upper or lower jaw, a removable partial denture is used. Replacement teeth are attached to a plastic or metal base that sits on the gums.The gums will need to get used to this new denture so a couple adjustments will be needed. 

One Hour Dentures

These dentures are made by using one of five standard templates. They are temporary and can be made in one office visit. They are less expensive than conventional dentures and are only temporary and not meant to last a long time. These dentures are used immediately following tooth extractions. 

Implant Supported Dentures

To provide stability and resemble the function of natural teeth, implant supported dentures are the way to go. The dentures snap into the implant, which prevents the denture from moving around or falling out while talking and chewing. 

Here are several options that provide additional support to dentures:

  • All-on-four
  • Mini implant
  • Screw-in bridges etc.
  • Fixed-hybrid
  • Locator implants

We are happy to answer any questions and are committed to helping you find the treatment that works best for you. Please feel free to ask Dr. Honey about the differences in these procedures.