Understanding the Three Types of Dentures

Dentures are a popular replacement for people of all ages; however, they have become increasingly advanced in recent years. Each type of implant comes with its own set of advantages and components. This article aims to answer any questions about the market's three types of available dentures.

The difference between the three dentures

Partial dentures

Partial dentures are a type of dental prosthesis dentists use to replace one or a cluster of missing teeth. They consist of a framework made of metal or acrylic that supports one or more artificial teeth or pontics. Partial dentures are designed to fit around one's natural teeth, using clasps or other attachments to hold them in place or easily flip out, earning them the nickname flipper dentures.

Partial dentures not only help restore one's smile but can also help prevent the shifting of the patient's natural teeth. With missing teeth, the remaining teeth shift out of place, leading to bite problems and other dental issues. Partial dentures prevent this from happening by filling in the gaps and providing support for the remaining teeth.

Full dentures

Full dentures are better for those who need to replace all their teeth on the upper or lower jaw or both. They consist of a gum-colored acrylic base that supports a full set of artificial teeth. Full removable dentures fit snugly over the gums with the help of dentures glue (brands to be provided during the appointment), and the wearer can easily remove them for cleaning and maintenance.

Choosing full dentures offers many advantages, including the ability to restore facial structure and improve one's quality of speech. Missing teeth can cause one's face to appear sunken or saggy. They can also alter one's ability to pronounce certain words or letter combinations, inhibiting them from speaking clearly. In addition, full dentures also allow patients to enjoy their favorite foods again because of their durability.

Implant-supported dentures

Implant-supported dentures are a type of prosthesis that combines dentures and dental implants. They consist of artificial teeth attached to a metal frame, supported by dental implants that the dental professional will surgically place into the jawbone. The implant acts as an anchor for the dentures, providing a secure and stable foundation for them to rest on. Receiving implant-supported dentures will take several months and appointments. Still, it is the most popular choice in the dental community because of its permanent value. The process will go as follows:

• Consultation and design of a specialized treatment plan.
• Extractions or additional procedures such as bone grafts (if necessary).
• Implant placement.
• Osseointegration (healing period).
• Abutment placement.
• Another healing period.
• Full or partial denture placement.

Those seen as ideal candidates for implant-supported dentures have many advantages, including improved stability, chewing ability, speech, and comfort. In addition, these dentures are more stable than traditional (full) dentures, which can slip if one does not use enough bonding agents (denture glue) or has worn their dentures for too long. Since the dentures are firmly connected to the dental implants, patients can also care for them as easily as they would their natural teeth.