Types of Dentures
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures may be used when nearby teeth or not strong enough to hold a bridge, or when more than a few teeth are missing. Partial dentures are made up of artificial teeth which are clasped in place to fit nearby teeth. Partial dentures can easily be removed for cleaning at night.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures (more commonly known as ‘false teeth’) are used when all of your natural teeth are missing. Unlike partial dentures, complete dentures are held in place by suction and can take some time to get used to. There are two types of complete dentures: Immediate dentures and conventional dentures.
Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures are made from models of your jaw before teeth are removed. Once your teeth are extracted, we insert your immediate dentures. The benefits of immediate dentures is that you are not without teeth during the healing period, which can take up to 6 months.
Conventional Dentures
Conventional dentures are inserted into your mouth after your teeth have been extracted and gum and jaw tissues have healed.
Overdentures
We may suggest overdentures if you are having difficulty with your complete dentures. An overdenture is a removable denture that fits over your natural teeth or implants. If you do not have any remaining natural teeth then small implants are placed into your jawbone, which the overdenture is attached to.
Caring for your Dentures
Just like with your natural teeth, your dentures need to be cleaned every day. Plaque and tartar can build up and cause a decline in your oral health, and put any remaining natural teeth at risk as well.
To clean your dentures, rinse them off under water then clean them with denture cleaner or a mild soap. Brush gently with a soft bristle brush, being careful not to damage the plastic or bend any attachments. Thoroughly rinse off any cleaner before putting the dentures back in your mouth.
When not wearing your dentures, and overnight, always leave them to soak in warm water with denture cleaner to prevent them from drying out or warping.
If you notice any cracks in your dentures, or if any attachments look tarnished, be sure to contact us and take them in for repair. Do not wear damaged dentures as they may not fit properly and could cause damage to your mouth.