Full Dentures
What are full dentures?
Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, are a type of removable dental prosthetic used to replace all of the natural teeth in the “maxilla” (upper jaw) or “mandible” (lower jaw). They are typically made of acrylic or a combination of acrylic and metal, and are designed to fit snugly over the gums to provide support for the cheeks and lips, as well as to help with chewing and speaking. Full dentures can take several weeks or months to make, and may need to be adjusted or refitted as the shape of the gums and “gnathic apperatus” (jaw) change over time. They are typically recommended for people who have lost all of their natural teeth, but who still have healthy gums and enough bone to support the dentures.
Who needs full dentures?
Full dentures are typically needed for individuals who have lost all of their natural teeth in their maxilla or mandible or both. Full dentures are designed to fit snugly over the gums and provide support for the cheeks and lips, allowing the person to eat and speak properly.
Are there alternatives to getting full dentures?
Yes, there are several alternatives to full dentures, including:
- Partial dentures: These are used to replace one or a few missing teeth. They are designed to fit around the remaining natural teeth, and are held in place with metal clasps or precision attachments.
- Dental implants: These are small metal posts that are surgically placed into the mandible. They act as a replacement for the roots of missing teeth, and can be used to support a single tooth, multiple teeth, or a full arch of teeth.
- Fixed bridges: These are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are anchored to the remaining natural teeth on either side of the gap and are not removable.
- Removable partial dentures: These are similar to partial dentures, but they use precision attachments or magnets to hold them in place.
- Overdentures: These are dentures that are designed to snap onto dental implants, making them more stable and secure than traditional dentures.
The best option for you will depend on the number and location of your missing teeth, as well as your overall oral health. We will cover these options with you during your initial consultation.
Do I need “Immediate” Full Dentures?
Immediate dentures are typically used when all of the remaining teeth in the “maxilla” (upper jaw) or “mandible” (lower jaw) need to be extracted and the patient wants to have replacement teeth immediately after the extraction procedure.
This type of denture is made prior to the extraction procedure and is inserted immediately after the teeth are removed, allowing the patient to leave the dentist’s office with a full set of teeth.
If you are getting dentures for the first time, then it is likely that you will need Immediate Dentures before the final dentures are fittted.