There are several treatment options available to replace your missing teeth. Consulting the dentist is the best thing to do when it comes to identifying the best option for you.
One of the earliest forms of treatment that has been around since dentistry began is the use of dentures. Dentures are removable false teeth that are designed to fit over your gums with prosthetic teeth. They are mainly created by dentists to replace natural teeth.
If you’ve missing teeth and the dentist has recommended dentures, it is important that you become aware of the different types of dentures and the benefits of each.
What Are The Different Types Of Dentures?
Let’s take a look at the various types of dentures available:
Conventional Or Full Dentures
Full dentures replace all of your teeth in your mouth with a removable device that sits on the upper and lower gums. The denture teeth are made out of acrylic material, and deliver a brand new set of teeth, promoting smiling confidence. The dentist will require you to remove your teeth at least two months before fitting full dentures.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are considered if you still have some teeth intact. These dentures are designed to fill any gaps by clipping them to your natural teeth with metal clasps to keep the false teeth secure inside the mouth. Partial dentures also help support chewing and speaking.
Temporary Dentures
Temporary dentures are teeth that can be immediately applied after your natural teeth have been removed. These are typically used as a temporary measure until your full dentures are ready.
The dentist typically recommends having temporary dentures as an interim solution so that you can adjust to wearing dentures early. The dentist will take measurements of your teeth so the dentures are ready for you to wear. The objective behind this is to ensure that dentures rest on your jaw once it’s healed.
Flexible Dentures
Flexible dentures are made of thinner thermoplastic material and whilst they’re considered partial dentures, the thermoplastic material is designed to provide better comfort without any metal parts and look a lot more natural. Flexible dentures are a great choice particularly for those who need to feel comfortable wearing dentures.
Implant-Supported Dentures
An implant-supported denture is used when you have no natural teeth left, but your bone is strong enough to support an implant. The implant is attached to the denture to provide solid support to the denture so it fits in the mouth firmly. An implant looks more natural in the mouth, too.
Snap-On Dentures
Snap-on dentures use special fittings to attach them to a dental implant. They are similar to implant-supported dentures because they require strong bone for them to fit properly. They snap on and off surgically inserted implants. They are considered more stable compared to conventional dentures. This means when you speak and chew, they’re less likely to become loose.
Which Types Of Dentures Is Right For Me?
Ultimately, speaking to the dentist is recommended before you choose the most appropriate types of dentures. Gaining a professional’s opinion on which dentures will deliver the natural look and feel an aid your decision.
Although, to support your decision on the best types of dentures, here are some tips to think about:
- Comfort – Choose the denture type that you feel most comfortable with. You can choose permanent or temporary dentures, but the material is what will likely influence your decision.
- Finances – Some dentures are more expensive than others. Consult the dentist to determine which dentures fit your budget.
- Oral Health Needs – Get your oral health needs assessed by the dentist first should you be stuck on making a decision. For example, some dentures may require some teeth to be removed. These requirements are best to be discussed with your dentist.
If you’re seeking to have dentures fitted, but you need support on which is right for you, consult your dentist Dural to learn about which suits your oral health needs.