Losing teeth can make anyone feel self-conscious and concerned about their smile. We totally get it, having been through the process ourselves. After diving deep into research, we discovered that complete dentures offer a fantastic solution for many.
In this article, we’re going to walk you through the different types of complete dentures, from traditional to implant-supported options, helping you to find your perfect match and restore that confidence in your smile.
Keep reading to uncover which option might be the best fit for you!
What are Complete Dentures?
Complete dentures, also known as full dentures, are removable artificial teeth that replace all the natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, or both jaws. They are designed to restore function and aesthetics for individuals who have lost all of their natural teeth due to various reasons, such as decay, gum disease, trauma, or age-related factors.
Types of Complete Dentures
- Traditional dentures – Relies on the gums for support and are a common choice for those who have lost all their teeth. These full dentures help restore function and appearance.
- Implant-supported dentures – Offers a more stable option by anchoring to the jawbone. This type helps maintain healthy jaw tissues and prevents bone loss, making them an aesthetic and practical solution for tooth replacement.
- Immediate dentures – Provides a temporary solution immediately after teeth removal, allowing patients not to go without false teeth as their mouth heals.
- Overdentures – Uses existing teeth or dental implants as anchors, offering improved stability over traditional options.
- Snap-on dentures – Attaches to implants through snapping mechanisms, providing ease of removal and cleaning while ensuring secure fitment.
- Full implant dentures -Are permanently affixed to the jawbone with multiple implants, offering unmatched stability and comfort compared to other types.
Each of these options comes with distinct advantages in terms of comfort, aesthetics, stability, and impact on oral health.
Signs You Should Get Dentures
- Missing teeth
- Tooth decay
- Tooth loss
- Dental pain
- Cavities
- Gum disease
- Difficulty chewing
Contraindications
- Insufficient jawbone density
- Severe gum disease
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy
- Heavy smoking
- Chronic illnesses
Advantages and Disadvantages of Complete Dentures
Advantages
- Offers a swift solution to tooth loss, restoring both the function and appearance of natural teeth.
- Provides an affordable option compared to other dental restoration methods, such as dental implants.
- Enhance one’s ability to chew and speak clearly, improving overall quality of life.
- Implant-supported ones ensure a stable fit by anchoring directly to the jawbone, reducing slippage and discomfort.
- Aids in preserving jawbone health, preventing bone loss associated with missing teeth.
- Improved comfort and a more natural feel compared to conventional options.
Disadvantages
- Might cause discomfort because they rest on the gum tissue. This can lead to sore spots or irritation, especially in the initial adjustment period.
- May contribute to bone tissue loss in the jaw area. The pressure from the base on the bony ridges can accelerate this process.
- Challenges with stability and security. Conventional ones may slip or move while talking or eating, causing embarrassment and making certain foods difficult to enjoy.
- Implant-supported dentures require surgery for placement, introducing potential risks like infection or complications related to anesthesia.
- The cost of implant-retained ones is usually higher than that of conventional options. This investment might not be feasible for everyone looking into tooth restoration solutions.
- Complete denture wearers must commit to a rigorous dental care routine for both removable and fixed dentures. Neglecting proper maintenance can lead to poor oral health and reduce the lifespan of the prosthesis.
Alternatives to Complete Dentures
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures offer a solution for those who don’t need full ones but still have some missing teeth. They fit snugly between your natural teeth, acting like bridges to fill in the gaps and improve your smile.
We often recommend them as a cost-effective way to restore dental function and aesthetics without the need for more invasive procedures.
These removable teeth are custom-made to match your existing teeth, ensuring they blend seamlessly with your natural smile. With proper care and maintenance, partial dentures can provide comfort and stability, making it easier for you to speak and eat confidently.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, these are anchored securely to your jawbone. Such anchoring not only holds the teeth firmly in place, but also helps maintain healthy jawbone tissues.
We opt for implant-supported dentures because they provide a more natural appearance and an easier maintenance routine compared to conventional options. Whether you choose removable or permanent versions, this method offers enhanced security and preservation of the jawbone’s health, making it a preferred choice for full dental restoration.
Overdentures
Overdentures offer a reliable solution for those seeking stability and comfort in their options. Anchored directly to the jawbone with dental implants, they provide a more secure fit than traditional ones.
This direct connection helps preserve jawbone tissues, preventing bone loss associated with conventional dentures. We choose overdentures because they blend the benefits of implant support with the convenience of removable dentures, making them both aesthetic and easy to maintain.
With overdentures, patients enjoy improved functionality in everyday activities, such as eating and speaking. They no longer worry about their dentures slipping or causing discomfort because these prostheses firmly snap onto the implants embedded in the jawbone.
Complete Denture Care and Maintenance
- Remove your dentures and rinse them under water to wash away food particles.
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive cleaner to gently scrub all surfaces.
- Soak the dentures in a cleaning solution overnight, unless they are implant-supported ones that stay in place.
- After soaking, rinse it thoroughly under running water before putting it back in your mouth.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups to ensure proper care of both traditional and implant-supported dentures.
- Make sure you also brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth every morning before inserting the dentures to stimulate circulation in those areas and remove plaque.
- Avoid using hot water when cleaning as it could warp the denture structure; cool or lukewarm water is most effective.
- Always handle your full or partial dentures with care during cleaning to prevent accidental drops that could damage them.
Adjustments/Repairs
Over time, your complete denture teeth may need adjustments or repairs for a perfect fit and optimum comfort. This is normal, as the shape of our mouth and gums can change. If you start feeling discomfort or notice any looseness in your dentures, we recommend getting them checked by a dental professional immediately.
Adjustments ensure that your teeth continue to fit well, preventing irritation and sores in your mouth.
Repairs become necessary when there’s damage such as cracks or if a tooth comes off the denture. Do not try to fix these issues yourself with DIY kits because improper repairs can cause more harm than good.
Always seek professional help from your dentist who has the right tools and materials to repair your dentures safely and effectively, ensuring they function like new again while maintaining dental health.
Replacement
We understand that care doesn’t stop with daily cleaning and adjustments; sometimes, a replacement is necessary. Over time, even the best-maintained dentures may require replacing due to natural wear or changes in your mouth’s shape.
This ensures your comfort and maintains oral health. Deciding to replace your dentures can greatly improve quality of life, making eating easier and boosting confidence with a fresh smile.
Oral Health and Dentures
Maintaining good oral health plays a critical role in the success of complete dentures, whether we’re talking about traditional or implant-supported options. Proper care ensures that your gums stay healthy and can support your dentures comfortably.
Our choice of denture, whether it be removable or full implant dentures, affects not just our appearance but also the overall health of our mouth. Implant-supported dentures help preserve jawbone tissues and prevent the bone loss commonly associated with traditional removable dentures.
For those wearing any type of prosthesis, regular dental check-ups are essential to adjust or repair your dental appliances as needed and to monitor your oral cavity for signs of disease or discomfort.
Keeping up with dental appointments allows for timely interventions, ensuring that both your natural teeth (if applicable) and prostheses remain in top condition.
Enjoy a Complete Smile Today!
Exploring the types of complete dentures, including traditional and implant-supported options, reveals a wide range of choices for those facing tooth loss. Each type brings its unique benefits, from enhanced stability to improved jawbone health.
These advancements make choosing the right denture not only easier but also more effective for oral restoration. Proactive care and maintenance further ensure these dental prostheses serve their purpose well.
For anyone considering, understanding these options can greatly impact oral health and quality of life. Taking this step towards dental restoration opens the door to renewed confidence and comfort. Book an appointment with the Juanita Bay Dentist today!