Dentures may become necessary if you experience serious tooth loss. Most of us can afford to lose teeth or two as adults.

What are Dentures?

Dentures are common enough treatment device used to hide the loss of teeth. Dentures replace teeth and also cover up unsightly gaps in your mouth.

Dentures are also used to change the appearance of teeth. But this is mostly done for theatrical reasons than medical ones. Dentures may become necessary if you experience serious tooth loss. Most of us can afford to lose teeth or two as adults.

But losing multiple teeth leads to several problems in the mouth. Loss of teeth means your jawbone loses bone density, which can cause problems for the other remaining healthy teeth in your mouth.

Tooth loss can put you at risk for tooth decay, or illnesses like gum disease. It also distorts your smile. Your facial structure may sag with tooth loss causing less jawbone density. Dentures can act as a reliable solution to these problems. Dentures are available in many different types, shapes, and materials.

Dentures can be largely broken down into two categories: permanent and removable. Permanent dentures are affixed to your jaw. Implant procedures like All-on-4 are necessary to get permanent dentures.

On the other hand, removable dentures are not permanently fixed to your mouth. You can insert them or get them out any time you wish.

Types of Dentures

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures are also called full dentures. They're replacements for entire sets of teeth.

Full dentures are the last option after all other tooth restorations are deemed ineffective.

These dentures are completely customized and restore the shape and look of natural teeth. They also improve mastication, which means you can crush, grind, and eat food normally again.

Removable Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures (RPD) only replace some missing teeth. An RPD consists of replacement teeth attached to a plastic, gum-colored base.

Removable partial dentures are built onto a cast metal framework for strength. They restore the natural look, feel, and function of your teeth.

RPD’s can be removed at any time and replaced easily. They are most commonly recommended for patients who aren't good candidates for an implant-supported bridge.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Implant-retained dentures click into place and latch onto abutments (metal posts). These dentures support more than one tooth and, oftentimes, an entire set of teeth.

They increase stability and improve chewing function better than traditional dentures. However, you must remove them every night for cleaning and tissue rest.

Immediate Dentures

Replaces missing teeth temporarily. Dentists prescribe immediate dentures to cover up the loss of teeth temporarily until the jaw heals. Immediate dentures are not permanent and usually require being replaced within several months. You can discuss the types of dentures with your dentist to choose the one that fits you the most.