Dentures

A denture serves as a removable substitute for missing teeth and the surrounding tissues, available in two types: complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures are utilized when all teeth are missing, with two variations known as “conventional” and “immediate.” Conventional dentures are crafted after tooth removal and gum healing, becoming ready for placement approximately eight to 12 weeks later. In contrast, immediate dentures are pre-made and can be positioned right after teeth removal, eliminating the need to go without teeth during the healing period. However, due to bone and gum shrinkage over time, immediate dentures necessitate more adjustments during the healing process and are generally considered a temporary solution until conventional dentures can be fabricated.

Partial dentures, whether removable or fixed, typically consist of replacement teeth on a pink or gum-colored plastic base, sometimes connected by a metal framework for stability.

Removable partial dentures are recommended when some natural teeth are present in the upper or lower jaw. A fixed bridge, an alternative to partial dentures, replaces missing teeth by affixing artificial teeth to crowns on adjacent teeth, preventing neighboring teeth from shifting. Precision partial dentures, a removable option, feature internal attachments rather than clasps for a more natural appearance. Both complete and partial dentures play a crucial role in restoring oral function, aesthetics, and preventing adverse changes in tooth position.