Dentures

What are dentures?

Dentures are an oral appliance used to replace missing teeth. There are a few types of dentures, but generally speaking, they’re made of a gum-colored base that holds a set of artificial teeth in place.

The artificial teeth are made from porcelain or composite resin. Both options look similar to tooth enamel. This gives your dentures a natural appearance.

What are the different types of dentures?

When it comes to restoring a smile, everybody has different needs and preferences. Thankfully, there are many types of dentures, each of which can address varied and unique situations.

When choosing what type of dentures are right for you, some of the questions you’ll answer include:

How many teeth need to be replaced?

If you need to replace all of the teeth in one or both of your dental arches, you can get complete dentures. If you only need to replace some teeth and still have healthy natural teeth, then you can get partial dentures. Partial dentures restore your missing teeth and work side-by-side with your natural teeth.

How do dentures attach?

Traditional dentures use a base that fits over your gums and stays in place with either a suction mechanism or adhesive. If you want a more secure fit, however, you can opt for implant-supported dentures, which connect directly to your jawbone with a few dental implants.

Dental implants are small metal rods embedded in your jawbone, where they function as artificial tooth roots. Using implants to support your dentures can make them feel more comfortable and natural and provides several health benefits, as well, like keeping your jawbone tissue stimulated.

How soon are dentures ready to wear?

If you need some of your teeth extracted to make room for complete dentures, you’ll be able to choose between conventional or immediate dentures. With conventional dentures, Dr. Kramer makes your dentures after your gums have healed from the extraction, meaning you’ll have to go without teeth for a certain amount of time.

Immediate dentures are made before your extractions, so you’ll start wearing them as soon as your remaining teeth are removed. But because your gums naturally shrink and change shape as they heal from the procedure, immediate dentures require more relinings and refittings.

What are the benefits of dentures?

Dentures improve your quality of life. They make it easier to speak and help you chew more effectively for better digestion. They also restore your smile, improve your appearance, and boost your confidence.

To learn more about what dentures can do for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kramer today by calling the office or booking a visit online.