Wankhede Hospital

Dentures

What is Dentures?

Dentures are removable the dental appliances designed to the replace missing teeth or restore the function or appearance of your smile. They are made to fit comfortably over the gums and can be used to replace a few missing teeth (partial dentures) or a full arch of missing teeth (complete dentures).

Types of Dentures:

  1. Complete Dentures:

    • Conventional Complete Dentures: These are placed in the mouth after all the remaining natural teeth have been removed and the gums have healed, which can take several months.
    • Immediate Complete Dentures: These are made in advance and placed immediately after tooth extraction. They provide the benefit of not having to go without teeth during the healing process, but may require adjustments as the gums heal and shrink.
  2. Partial Dentures:

    • These are used when some natural teeth remain. They consist of one or more replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored base, which is connected by metal or acrylic clasps to the remaining natural teeth. Partial dentures can be used to fill gaps, restore chewing ability, and prevent the remaining teeth from shifting.
  3. Implant-Supported Dentures:

    • These are dentures that are supported and secured by dental implants placed in the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures provide greater stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures and help prevent bone loss.
  4. Overdentures:

    • These are a type of denture that fits over a few remaining natural teeth or dental implants. They offer more stability than traditional dentures because they are anchored to the natural teeth or implants.

The Denture Process:

  1. Initial Consultation:

    • The dentist evaluates your oral health and discusses your needs and options for dentures. X-rays, impressions, and measurements are taken to create a custom fit.
  2. Creating the Dentures:

    • Impressions: Detailed impressions of your mouth are taken to create a model of your gums and any remaining teeth.
    • Fitting and Adjustment: A wax model of the dentures is created for you to try on. Adjustments are made to ensure proper fit and comfort.
    • Final Dentures: Once the wax model is approved, the final dentures are made and fitted. Additional adjustments may be necessary to ensure a comfortable fit.
  3. Adjustment Period:

    • It may take some time to get used to wearing dentures. During the adjustment period, you might experience some soreness, and your dentures may need periodic adjustments to fit properly.

Benefits of Dentures:

  • Restores Function: Enables you to chew and speak more comfortably.
  • Enhances Appearance: Provides a natural-looking replacement for missing teeth, improving your smile and facial appearance.
  • Affordable Option: Dentures are generally less expensive than dental implants or bridges.

Considerations:

  • Comfort: Dentures may initially feel awkward or uncomfortable and may require adjustments to fit properly.
  • Maintenance: Dentures need to be cleaned regularly and may need to be replaced or relined over time due to changes in the mouth’s shape.
  • Eating and Speaking: Some people may find it challenging to eat certain foods or speak clearly with dentures at first.
  • Bone Loss: Traditional dentures can contribute to bone loss in the jaw over time, which can affect fit and comfort.
Call Now Button