Dentures
When many teeth have been lost or extracted, dentures can be used to replace the missing teeth. Dentures are artificial teeth which can be made of acrylic or metal, however your dentist can advise you of the best material for you.
There have been significant improvements in the design and development of dentures. Dentures help to restore your normal chewing ability, speech and general appearance of your face.
Different types of dentures
There are many different types of dentures. Your dentist can advise you on which option is best for you.
› Partial Dentures are used to fill the space left by a few missing teeth. A partial denture is usually attached to the surrounding teeth with metal clasps.
› Full Dentures are used to replace all the missing natural teeth. A full denture can be made for the upper, lower or both sets of teeth.
› Immediate Dentures are fitted immediately after tooth extractions. Although they may require an adjustment and potentially a reline within several months as the gums and jaw bone heal, their greatest advantage is that the patient avoids going for a period without teeth.
› Over-Dentures are anchored to remaining teeth or to dental implants. They can be fitted over the top of existing teeth, over the roots of existing teeth after root canal treatment or over dental implants.
The way dentures are fitted will depend on the type of dentures that are recommended for you. You should contact your dentists for more information on the fitting and maintanence of dentures.
For more information on which procedures are available at your local Primary Dental, please contact your local centre directly.
