What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore the function and appearance of your smile. They can be complete or partial:

• Complete Dentures: These are used when all teeth are missing in either the upper or lower jaw. They are custom-made to fit the contours of your gums.

• Partial Dentures: These are used when some natural teeth remain. They fill in gaps and prevent remaining teeth from shifting.

Dentures are typically made from a combination of acrylic resin, metal, and sometimes porcelain. They help with chewing, speaking, and maintaining the shape of the face. Adjustments may be needed over time to ensure a proper fit, especially as the jawbone changes. Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining their condition and your oral health. 

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Types of Dentures:

Dentures come in various types, which can be grouped into three main

categories: removable, permanent, and temporary.
 

Conventional Removable Dentures
Lifespan: 3–5 years

Conventional dentures are custom-fitted artificial teeth and gums

designed for comfort in a patient’s mouth. They are available as full

or partial sets to address different levels of tooth loss. Typically made

from acrylic or porcelain, these removable dentures are supported by

either an acrylic or metal base.

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Full Dentures

Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, are prosthetic devices designed to replace all the natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. They are ideal for individuals who have lost all their teeth due to factors like decay, injury, or periodontal disease.

These dentures consist of a custom-made base that fits snugly over the gums and artificial teeth that mimic the appearance of natural teeth. Full dentures rely on suction and the contours of the mouth to stay in place, providing support for chewing and speaking. Regular adjustments may be needed to ensure a proper fit, as the shape of the mouth can change over time.

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Partial Dentures

A partial denture is a removable dental appliance designed to replace

one or more missing teeth while allowing the remaining natural teeth to

stay intact. It consists of artificial teeth attached to a base that matches

the color of your gums. Partial dentures help restore function for chewing

and speaking and improve the overall appearance of your smile. They are

typically held in place by metal clasps or precision attachments that

connect to the remaining natural teeth. Custom-made for each individual,

partial dentures can be adjusted as needed to ensure a comfortable fit. Regular dental check-ups are important to maintain both the partial denture and your oral health.

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Flexible Dentures

Lifespan: 5-8 years

Flexible dentures are a type of removable partial denture made from a flexible thermoplastic material, which allows for a more comfortable fit compared to traditional rigid dentures. They are designed to adapt to the contours of the gums and are less likely to cause irritation.

Key features of flexible dentures include:

• Comfort: The soft, flexible material molds to the mouth, making them more comfortable to wear.

• Aesthetics: Flexible dentures often have a more natural appearance because the gum-colored base can blend in better with the natural gum tissue.

• Durability: They are resistant to breaking and can withstand daily use.

• Lightweight: The lightweight design makes them easier to wear for extended periods.

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