When missing teeth have your confidence down, dentures are there to help you. Dentures are removable replacements for the gaps caused by teeth that have been removed or have fallen out. There are two main types of denture options: complete and partial. The former is created when all of the patient’s teeth are missing, while partial dentures can be utilized when some of the healthy, natural teeth remain.

What are Dentures?

Dentures are composed of artificially-made replacement teeth that are attached to a gum-colored plastic base. They may contain a metal framework, complete with clasps that attach to your teeth. Other, less obvious connectors (such as precision attachments) are also available as options and are more natural looking.

Different Types of Partial Dentures

There are several types to choose from, each appropriate for different situations and circumstances.

-Cast metal dentures use a metal framework that attaches to the crowns via clasps. The metal frame is not visible, but the clasps may be seen when smiling. Made with acrylic, this is the most common partial replacement.

-Flexible partials are lightweight, comfortable, and, as the name suggests, very flexible. Made from realistic nylon material, these are used in less heavy-duty cases and are fairly easy to adjust to.

-Dental flippers are another removable replacement. Most commonly utilized as a temporary stand-in while a permanent denture if being created, it is a great option for replacing a single tooth (or more) for a short period of time.

The cost of your replacement will depend on the specifications of your case.

How are Partials Made?

After a thorough examination and strategizing, your dentist will collect a series of impressions of the jaw. These molds will allow the practitioner to take measurements and make observations on how your upper and lower jaws compare to each other with reference to space and alignment. The measurements are then used to create precise wax forms, models, or plastic molds in the exact dimensions of the patient’s mouth. Before creating the final denture, the patient will try out this model, where color, shape, an overall fit are assessed. When patient and doctor come to an agreement, a final denture is cast. The time necessary to create the final denture will depend entirely on the patient’s specific dimensions, needs, and preferences, and adjustments can always be made afterward.

What to Expect

After the new dentures are placed in by the dentist, they may take some getting used to. New apparatus in the mouth may feel a bit loose or mildly uncomfortable for the first few weeks unless the muscles in the tongue and cheeks learn to cope with their positioning. Minor soreness, irritation, and increased saliva production are normal side effects of getting new dentures. Removing them at night and re-inserting them in the morning will also come with an adjustment period, but all of these concerns will diminish as the mouth begins to adjust.

At Mountain View Dental, your comfort and confidence are our top priority. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 385-324-3557 today