Specialty Dentures

Dentures are designed for people who lost all their teeth. They might be designed to replace the top teeth only, bottom teeth only or both at the same time. Technological advancements have resulted in dentures that are lightweight and mimic the look of natural teeth in shape and colour. Most dentures are made from a combination of metals and synthetic material such as acrylic resin.

Types of Dentures

Dentures are generally classified as full or partial. Full dentures generally replace an entire set of teeth such as upper and lower dentures. Many candidates for conventional dentures (also called “immediate” dentures) are able to wear the appliances immediately following removal of affected natural teeth. Before immediate dentures are worn, a mold of the patient’s mouth – specifically the jaws – must be made in order for the dentures to be customized for the individual.

Partial dentures designed to replace a small section of teeth, and help prevent existing healthy natural teeth from shifting position. Also sometimes called “overdentures,” when designed to fit over a small section of implants or natural teeth. Partial dentures are characteristic by their pinkish gum-like plastic bases, on to which replacement teeth are attached. Small clasps are used to attach the denture to existing teeth. Some clasps, which can be more expensive, are made of natural-looking material that is hard-to-detect.

Common Concerns

Technology advancements have made dentures very natural looking; however, it is only natural for first-time denture wearers to be self-conscious about their appearance and speech. Over time, a denture wearer’s confidence level increases, and this usually ceases to be an issue. Like any new thing, caring for dentures takes practice. Under normal circumstances, denture wearers can eat most foods with confidence that their appliance will not shift. Caution must be taken, however, to avoid certain kinds of, hard, crunchy, chewy or sticky foods. During the break-in period, denture wearers are usually advised to eat on both sides of their mouth so the appliances don’t get out of balance, or tip to one side.