Dentures & Partial Dentures

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and are typically composed of acrylic or porcelain teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored acrylic base.

The main function of dentures is to restore the appearance and functionality of a person’s smile by replacing missing teeth. They provide support to the facial muscles, allowing for proper speaking and chewing. Dentures also help maintain the alignment of remaining teeth and prevent them from shifting out of position.

Full Mouth Dentures in Orlando, Florida

Types of Dentures:

Complete Dentures: Also known as full dentures, these are used when all the teeth in one or both dental arches (top and bottom) are missing. Complete dentures can be further classified as conventional or immediate. Conventional dentures are placed in the mouth after the remaining teeth are extracted, and the gum tissues have healed, while immediate dentures are inserted immediately after tooth extraction.

Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain in the dental arch. They consist of replacement teeth attached to a metal or acrylic framework, which is then connected to the remaining natural teeth using clasps or precision attachments. Partial dentures help fill the gaps created by missing teeth and improve oral function.

Who Are Dentures Best For?

Dentures are ideal for individuals who have lost some or all of their teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury. They are especially beneficial for older adults who have experienced extensive tooth loss over time. The specific type of denture suitable for an individual would depend on the number and distribution of missing teeth, the health and quality of the remaining teeth, and the individual’s overall oral health.

Pros and Cons of Different Types of Dentures

Complete Dentures

  • Pro: Restore the entire dental arch, improve appearance and function, cost-effective compared to other options.
  • Con: May require an adjustment period, is less stable than natural teeth, and has the potential for discomfort or soreness.

Partial Dentures

  • Pro: Preserve remaining natural teeth, improve chewing ability, cost-effective, removable.
  • Con: May cause slight discomfort, require periodic adjustment, and may affect speech initially.

How Long Do Dental Dentures Last?

On average, dentures last about 5 to 7 years. It’s common for dentures to need to be refitted, relined, or completely remade after a number of years, even if they’re not visibly worn or broken. It’s crucial to continue having regular checkups with a dentist or a prosthodontist because they can monitor the dentures’ fit and the oral tissues’ health. They can also professionally clean the dentures and repair any minor damage before it becomes a bigger problem.

Proper care can also help to extend the life of dentures. This includes cleaning them daily, avoiding rough handling that could cause them to crack or break, and removing them at night to let the gums rest.

Interested in Learning More about Dentures?

Dr. Patel and his team at Colonialtown Dental have extensive experience and knowledge regarding Dentures and other solutions for missing teeth. Colonialtown Dental has been serving Orlando and the surrounding areas for over 28 years. Book online or give us a call at 407-422-3811 today!