Dentures

A denture is a removable dental appliance that replaces missing teeth and mimics gums. They are made to look and function like your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile. A denture also helps support the facial structure, preventing sagging skin that can make you look older.

Types of dentures include the following:

• Full Dentures

Full dentures are used to replace all the teeth in both the upper and lower arches. They consist of a full arch of artificial teeth secured to a gum-colored base. They are detachable for cleaning and maintenance.

• Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are made with replacement teeth attached to a base that literally clips onto your existing teeth. This base can be made of metal or a tooth-colored material called acrylic resin. Partial dentures can replace one or more missing teeth.

A partial denture can be secured to your existing teeth with metal clasps, crowns, or precision attachments.

• Overdentures

An overdenture is a type of detachable denture that is secured onto dental implants. It’s similar to a traditional denture, but it uses implants to help hold it in place.

This is a great option for those who have several missing teeth or who have a full arch of teeth that are failing. The implants provide strength to the denture so it won’t slip or cause discomfort.

• Implant-supported dentures

Implant-supported dentures, like overdentures, consist of a full set of dentures attached to implants. The implants are typically placed in the jawbone, and the procedure can be completed in more than one appointment. Unlike overdentures, implant-supported overdentures are permanently attached to the implants, making them more stable than traditional dentures and can be treated like natural teeth in terms of hygiene practices.

How to Care for Dentures

When caring for your dentures, be sure to take the following precautions:

• When you remove your dentures, gently hold your lower dentures with a towel or washcloth and clean them over a sink filled with water.
• Brush your dentures gently.
• Be sure to clean your mouth and gums in addition to caring for your dentures.
• Be sure to keep your dentures in water when not wearing them. This prevents them from drying out.

Note that, as mentioned, implant-supported dentures are not detachable and therefore should be cleaned the same way as natural teeth.

Schedule a consultation with our team by calling the Infinity Dental office or by contacting us online to know more about dentures. We would be happy to help.