Are you or someone you know considering dentures but feel overwhelmed by your options? You are not alone. Understanding how the different types of dentures compare and differ can get confusing, but with dedication and a sprinkle of knowledge, it can be broken down so you can decide on the fit that works best for you. You will learn the three most popular types of dentures available today, leaving you to make an informed decision that will boost your confidence in your smile. The power of dentistry has made it possible for you to revitalize your teeth even when it seems all hope is lost. Discover how dentures can be the answer to your dental needs and consult with a dental professional to get a treatment plan that puts you on the path to a star-studded smile.

What Are the 3 Types of Dentures?

Before delving into the types of dentures, clarification of what they are is necessary. Dentures are medical devices used in dentistry to replace some or all of your teeth. Dentures restore function and aesthetics to individuals who have experienced complications with their oral health to a degree that repair is not advisable.

Dentures can be customized by your dentist according to your preference in color, shape, and size. Advancements in technology have also made it possible to replicate your teeth and create dentures that match your teeth without damage and decay for a more natural appearance. Whether the loss of your teeth is due to decay, injury, or age, dentures offer a solution that allows you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures are designed to replace all of your natural teeth in one or both of your jaws. They are custom-made to fit snugly against your gums to provide a full arch replacement. It can take you several weeks to more than a year to heal completely and adjust to how your new dentures function.

Benefits of Complete Dentures

Complete dentures restore function, improving your ability to chew and speak.
Complete dentures help support facial structures to prevent sagging and the appearance of aging.
Complete dentures are often more cost-effective than other tooth replacement methods available.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are best if you still have some natural healthy teeth but need a few replacements. They are also commonly used to fill gaps left behind by missing teeth. Your dentist uses clasps to anchor your partial denture adjacent to your natural teeth and restore your smile.

Benefits of Partial Dentures

Help preserve natural teeth by filling in the gaps of missing teeth to maintain the position of your remaining teeth.
Partial dentures come in various designs with options for more flexible materials for maximum comfort.
Missing teeth can cause feelings of self-consciousness; partial dentures remove this unnecessary feeling by replacing missing teeth.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Offering stability and durability, implant-supported dentures may be a good fit for you if you are looking for the best of both worlds. Dental implants give you the security of stabilization through small titanium posts surgically placed into your jaw bone that your denture plate snaps onto securely. This option does require surgery and often requires a greater upfront cost than other dentures; however, patients express that the long-term benefits far outweigh the upfront cost.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

Will not shift around while eating or speaking, offering peace of mind.
Implants stimulate your jawbone, reducing bone mass and structure, which is a common occurrence with traditional dentures.
Many patients have reported that implant-supported dentures provide the most natural feel when compared to other available options on the market.

Choose Your Perfect Smile With the Right Dentures

Understanding the types of dentures is key to getting the right treatment for your needs. The dentures you choose should align with your lifestyle and dental needs. Thankfully, the world of dentistry has provided you with a few options to take your smile from self-conscious and timid to dazzling and beaming.

Dentures are a great option whether you are looking for a fresh start, partials to preserve what you have, or implant-supported options for maximum stability and security. Each type of denture brings its own advantages and drawbacks. The important thing to remember is that by speaking to a dental professional, you and your dentist can find the perfect match for you.

Schedule a consultation today to regain functionality and renewed confidence in your smile.

Reference:

Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Dentures.