In our practice we see a lot of patients with denture needs. Patients who are new to dentures are often confused by denture vocabulary and trying to understand what are dentures and how dentures work. In the following paragraphs I will explain what are dentures and will discuss different types of dentures and briefly discuss materials used in denture fabrication.
What are Dentures?
A denture is an artificial prosthesis, which replaces missing teeth and gums in one or both jaws. The denture can be removed by the denture wearer and dentist for cleaning and servicing.
What are Upper and Lower Dentures?
When the denture replaces teeth in the top jaw it is called Top, Upper, or Maxillary Denture. When the denture replaces teeth in the bottom jaw it is called Bottom, Lower, or Mandibular Denture.
What are Full or Partial Dentures?
Full (also called Complete) denture is fabricated for the replacement of all teeth in one jaw. When the denture replaces one or more but not all teeth in one jaw it is called a Partial denture.
What are Provisional Dentures?
Provisional, Interim or Temporary Denture is type of denture which is fabricated for the duration of the treatment. For example a patient may be undergoing restoration of missing teeth with implant supported bridges. Patient’s treatment typically takes several months. While in treatment patient is wearing a provisional denture which provides restoration of missing teeth and restoration of oral functions.
What are Immediate Dentures?
Immediate denture placed immediately following removal of the teeth. This type of denture allows immediate restoration of smile and function so the patient does not have to go without teeth for even one day. Here is a link which provides a detailed information about immediate denture treatment.
What are Implant Dentures?
Implant Denture represents yet another type of denture treatment. In some situations gums or teeth do not anchor prosthesis well, thus making the denture wearer feel uncomfortable during chewing, speech, and swallowing. In such situations dental implants are used to anchor the denture.
What are Denture Parts and Denture Materials?
Denture prosthesis is made of several different parts. Artificial Denture Teeth that are made of plastic or ceramic materials are used as a replacement of the natural teeth. The Denture Base is used for the replacement of the gums and usually made of plastic materials.
When the denture is anchored to the teeth or implants additional anchoring metal or plastic parts called clasps are incorporated into the denture.
It is also quite common to incorporate an additional strengthening element, usually made out of metal alloys, in order to reinforce the denture as well and prevent undesirable fractures. The metal insert also called frame or connector also can be used for the support of the denture.
In this What Are Dentures article we try to explain basic information about dentures. Should you have more questions about dentures or would like to schedule an appointment for your denture needs please contact our office.
Thank you for reading!
Dr. Alex Shor
