Dentures are artificial replacements for your natural teeth and gums. If an accident, a disease or poor oral health care has left you with only a few healthy teeth or none at all, your dentist might suggest dentures to replace your missing teeth.
There are two types of dentures: partial dentures and complete dentures.
Partial dentures may be used when nearby teeth are not strong enough to hold a bridge, or when more than just a few teeth are missing. They are made up of one or more artificial teeth held in place by clasps that fit onto nearby natural teeth. You can take the partial denture off yourself, for cleaning and at night.
Complete dentures are also called “full dentures” and are used when all your natural teeth are missing. Complete dentures are removable as they are held in place by suction.
There are two types of complete dentures: immediate dentures and conventional dentures.
Immediate dentures are made before your teeth are removed. Your dentist takes measurements and makes models of your jaws during your first visit. Once your teeth are extracted, your dentist inserts the immediate dentures. The benefit of immediate dentures is that you are not without teeth during the healing period, which can take up to 6 months. During the healing period, your bones and gums can shrink and your immediate dentures may need to be relined by your dentist for a proper fit.
Conventional dentures are made and inserted into your mouth after your teeth have been extracted and the gums and jaw tissues have healed.