Dentures are also known as artificial teeth. A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and adjacent tissues. Dentures definitely provide a great smile with a very natural appearance. They arre made of very durable materials (like acrylic resin) and last very long when properly taken care of. Typically dentures last from five to ten years. They also correct several problems, from speech to chewing, for many patients.
There are two types of dentures, Complete dentures and Partial dentures. Complete dentures replace all the teeth, while a partial denture fills in the spaces created by missing teeth and prevents other teeth from changing their position.
Complete dentures are called “conventional” or “immediate” according to when they are made and when they are inserted into the mouth. Immediate dentures are inserted immediately after the removal of the remaining teeth. To make this possible, the dentist takes measurements and makes the models of the patient’s jaws during a preliminary visit.
An advantage of immediate dentures is that the wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bones and gums can shrink over time, especially during the period of healing in the first six months after the removal of teeth. When gums shrink, immediate dentures may require rebasing or relining to fit properly. A conventional denture can then be made once the tissues have healed. Healingmay take at least 6-8 weeks.
The procedure begins with a wax bite impression of your mouth that will give your dentist exacting measurements. A try-on appointment will fine tune color, shape, and custom-fit.After your final dentures are fabricated in the lab, they will be placed and informed of their required care.