Dentures, (also known as false teeth), are prosthetic devices constructed to replace missing teeth; they are supported by the surrounding soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity. They can be removed and put back into your mouth as you please. They are made to look similar to your natural teeth to improve your smile.
Types of dentures:
Complete Dentures:
If all of natural teeth are missing, whether from periodontal disease, tooth decay or injury, complete dentures can replace missing teeth and a smile.
Before the denture is provided, all the teeth are removed and the tissue is given time to heal before the dentures are placed. In few months time the gum tissue heals completely, during which the patient has to manage without teeth.
Immediate Dentures:
Prior to having your teeth removed, measurements of teeth are taken to have the dentures fitted in the mouth. After removing the teeth, the dentures are placed in the mouth.
The benefit is that the patient does not have to spend any time without teeth. A follow up visit is required to refit dentures because the jaw bone will slightly change shape as the mouth heals. The dentures will need to be tightened after the jaw bone has healed.
Partial dentures :
These dentures are used when one or more natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw. A fixed bridge replaces one or more teeth by placing crowns on the teeth on either side of the space and attaching artificial teeth to them.
This "bridge" is then cemented into place. Not only does a partial denture fill in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from changing position.
A precision partial denture is removable and has internal attachments rather than clasps that attach to the adjacent crowns. This is a more natural-looking appliance.
Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.
Dentures enhance a smile and facial tissues. It also improves chewing, speech and digestion.