What are Dentures?
Dentures are oral appliances designed to restore essential oral functions after tooth loss. Whether you are missing one tooth, several teeth, or an entire arch, they help you eat comfortably, speak clearly, and maintain your natural facial contours.
Addressing tooth loss is important for more than appearance. When teeth are not replaced, remaining teeth can shift, your bite can become misaligned, and the jawbone may gradually deteriorate.
Dentures provide a practical, cost-effective solution to prevent these issues while allowing you to maintain the function of your smile.
Types of Dentures
Whether you need dentures to replace one missing tooth, a row of teeth, or a full set, your dentist can help you decide on the right option for you.
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Full Dentures
Your dentist will use full dentures, commonly referred to as false teeth or complete dentures, if you are missing all of your natural teeth.
You can have them fitted for your upper and/or lower gums, and they are held in place by suction and/or with the help of an oral adhesive.
Full dentures can be removed for cleaning and sleeping.
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Partial Dentures
Your dentist may recommend partial dentures if you are missing one or more teeth. Partial dentures can be an appropriate option to replace teeth if you prefer a removable option or if the surrounding teeth are not strong enough to support a dental bridge.
Partial dentures are made up of one or more artificial teeth held in place by fitting on/around your natural teeth.
They can be removed for cleaning and sleeping.
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Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures look and feel like natural teeth and can be more comfortable and stable than regular dentures due to their secure fit. They are designed to be long-lasting and allow you to maintain your ability to bite and chew.
Unlike regular full or partial dentures, some types of implant-supported dentures may only be removed by your dentist.
Benefits of Dentures
Dentures may help to bring an aesthetically pleasing appearance to the smile, but can also help in a variety of other ways, including:
- Filling out the cheeks to prevent sagging and maintain a youthful look
- Help to eat many types of foods that you could not eat without teeth
- Stop the deterioration of the jawbone beneath the surface
- Help prevent remaining teeth from cracking or shifting