Dentures
Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics
Dentures are part of the art and science of dentistry known as Prosthodontics. Prosthodontics are appliances which serve to replace broken or missing teeth.
Fixed Prosthodontics include items that cannot be removed from the mouth by the patient such as, crowns, bridges, veneers or implants.
Removable Prosthodontics include items that can be removed from the mouth by the patient such as, dentures or removable fixed or partial dentures.
Types of Dentures
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices to replace missing teeth. Partial Dentures replace only a few missing teeth. Complete Dentures replace a complete set of missing teeth.
Conventional Dentures are made and placed after the teeth are removed and the tissues have healed. Usually this method of treatment allows more flexibility for try ins and customization and often results in a better looking and more stable denture.
Immediate Dentures are made before the teeth are taken out. Since many people are not willing to be without teeth for an extended period of time, The Immediate Denture is made first and then is delivered at the same appointment where the teeth are removed.
Most Immediate Dentures are fine, but, since no trial or try in is possible, and since healing tissues shrink upon healing, some compromises are inevitable and must be accepted.
An overdenture is a denture made to be stabilized by fitting over a small number of prepared teeth or implants. They are more expensive due to the precision nature of construction, but for many who are unable to wear a denture, the clip-on stability of an overdenture is a blessing!
