If you need to get dentures, you’re probably doing some research right now. You already have an idea that dentists can suggest an array of options, each one coming with a number of advantages and a few shortcomings.
Having a thorough consultation with your dentist is the best way to select the right dentures. Still, it may be a good idea to learn a bit about the different options in advance.
Full Dentures
These are sometimes also called traditional dentures because they’re the most common variety.
Full dentures are used to fill in for a patient who has all of their teeth missing. Unlike dental bridges, these dentures sit on the gums and they aren’t anchored. This means that full dentures can be put in and taken out upon necessity (for cleaning, for example).
After the teeth have been extracted, anywhere between eight and 12 weeks will have to pass for full dentures to be placed. The jawbone reacts to the process of tooth extraction, which is why some time will have to pass prior to fitting.
On occasions, it’s possible for the dentist to do the measurements prior to the removal of the teeth. This way, a denture can be prepared immediately, guaranteeing the comfort of the patient.
Partial Dentures
The name is pretty self-explanatory. Partial dentures are used to replace some of a patient’s missing teeth.
Partial dentures allow for several methods of attachment, which makes them different from full dentures. Most often, metal clasps are used for the purpose and the anchoring occurs around the natural teeth that are close to the gap.
Precision attachments could also be utilized, ensuring the perfect fit of the partial denture. In this instance, the denture will be much less noticeable than in the case of metal clasps being used. Finally, dentures can be attached using crowns – a process that improves the attachment.
Some partial dentures are removable. If you’d like to be capable of taking the denture out of your mouth, you’ll need to discuss that requirement with your dentist. Based on your request, a dentist will be capable of selecting the most suitable attachment method.
There are some in-house labs that will create your own custom fitting dentures. Local typically means better attention, too. If you’re searching for custom dentures in Everett or full dentures in Bellingham, WA there’s a great custom lab. You can check out their website above.
Implant-Supported Dentures
A dental implant is required in this situation to provide support to the denture. The implant is placed in the jawbone and it extends through the gum. The denture itself is then filled. A few sessions will be required for the completion of the process. Implant-supported dentures offer a more permanent solution than partial dentures and they can’t be taken out of the mouth.
Implant-supported dentures are a very popular choice for missing teeth in the lower jaw. Depending on the position, other kinds of dentures may be rather unstable and they may even slip out of position. An implant-supported denture is affixed in the mouth, which means that it’s not going anywhere.
The time for the completion of the implanting procedure will vary from one patient to another. Usually, five months will be needed for a lower jaw implant to be completed. For an upper jaw implant, a patient will need to make multiple visits to the dental clinic over the course of six to seven months.
Keep in mind this procedure will necessitate at least two surgeries. The first one positions the implants and the second one exposes a portion of the implant above the gum line. Some dentists practice a single procedure that has the implant positioned and the support bar exposed within the same session.
Patients who have implant-supported dentures report their stability, enabling the consumption of all kinds of foods. These people also find it much easier to speak and articulate than in the case of using partial dentures.
Other Denture Varieties
While the options mentioned above are the most common and popular dentures, there are several additional options.
Immediate dentures offer a quick fix. These are usually made and fit within one day. While these are quick and easy, they’re not suitable for everyone. A dentist will need to assess a candidate prior to figuring out whether immediate dentures are an option.
Snap-in dentures are held in place with metal anchors. The attachment itself is embedded within the tissue side of the denture. This attachment will snap either on an implant or on a receptor.
A final option is available for people who can’t really afford custom-made dentures. These economy dentures are generic and they happen to be the most inexpensive ones. The problem with them is that the fit can’t be guaranteed. Some people who have such dentures may often feel uncomfortable with them and incapable of eating certain kinds of foods.
You have multiple options when it comes to dentures and an oral health professional will be the one to assess your situation and recommend the right solution. Take some time to explore the options, their benefits, limitations, and costs. Don’t hesitate to ask questions in an attempt to make the best decision about your oral health.