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Services > Restorative Dentistry
>> Dentures
Dentures
are removable replacements for missing teeth.
They are made of an acrylic resin, and often porcelain or metal
will be added for structural support. If your dentures are maintained,
you will have a natural-looking smile. Your dentures will
also help strengthen muscles controlling your expressions, and
you not be bothered with speech problems that were caused
by missing teeth.
The procedure of getting dentures differs depending on the type
of dentures you are having fitted. Here is the procedure for the
placement of complete dentures:
- A
"wax bite" impression is created to help the doctor
find your mouth's exact measurements.
- The
color, shape and fit of the dentures will be adjusted until
a good match is found.
- Your
dentures are made and then placed in your mouth.
- The
doctor will give you instructions of taking good care of your
dentures.
- Often
one or more teeth will have to be extracted. Surgery is sometimes
required to improve the bony ridges that stabilize your dentures.
Types
of dentures
- Complete
Dentures: These replace all of your teeth in the upper and/or
lower jaws.
- Immediate
Dentures: Immediate dentures are placed all at once.
- Over
Dentures: These are similar to complete dentures, but not
all teeth are extracted and they use one or more natural teeth
for support. They also provide more stabilization during chewing.
They are, however, more expensive and usually need more preparation.
- Partial
Dentures: Partial dentures fill the gaps when only some
of your teeth are missing. The dentures are anchored to your
teeth with metal attachments, and they maintain tooth alignment
because they prevent remaining teeth from shifting.
Advantages
of dentures
- Dentures
provide a natural-looking smile.
- They
are durable.
- They
can last from five to ten years.
- They
can correct problems related to speech and chewing.
Disadvantages
of dentures
- Dentures
take getting used to, and you may have speech problems during
the first few days.
- Maintenance
is required.
- Poor
maintenance may cause you to suffer from mouth irritation or
sores.
- The
fit of dentures usually needs to be adjusted from time to time.
- You
will only be able to chew at a fraction of the efficiency compared
to having natural teeth or dental implants.