Dentures are removable appliances used to replace teeth. They are fabricated in two different ways, castor precision attachments. The type a patient needs is determined by the number of remaining teeth and the condition of supporting bone structure.
Dentures Help With
Jaw Strengthening
They enable the jaw joint to become stronger and further support the facial skeletal system. This can help prevent future osteoarthritis in the joint. By promoting solid oral health, they promote healthy overall physical health by reducing stress on other teeth supporting organs such as bones and gums.
Missing Teeth Replacement
They can replace missing teeth by replacing the complete row of teeth or individual missing teeth. This prosthetic appliance is removable and intended to be taken out during sleep, eating, speaking, playing musical instruments, singing, etc. They come in different sizes, shapes, and colors that closely replicate natural teeth.
Tooth Retention
They are used as tooth replacement appliances to keep natural-looking false teeth for more extended periods. Previously, they were intended to be used temporarily and required frequent repair or replacement because more teeth would become loose or fall out. However, improved technology, new materials, and detailed design have enabled the fabrication of durable prosthetics that can endure for more than one year before signs of deterioration begin to show.
Reducing Impact on Bones
Without teeth, the jawbone begins to shrink. These bridges counteract this by adding support for the facial skeletal system and reducing supporting bones. This is because they are custom-made to your exact specifications, ensuring a comfortable fit that allows unrestricted movement of the lower jawbone – whether you are talking, laughing, or chewing.
Types of Dentures
There are different types of artificial teeth. Each type is tailored to the needs of each patient, customized according to their existing condition and desired function.
Conventional Dentures
Conventional ones are the traditional removable dental appliance made from acrylic resin and powdered or granulated glass. They resemble natural teeth in color, shape, size, and grooves to aid speech. They are ideal for missing most of their teeth but still have some roots remaining. Making these begins with the removal of all existing teeth.
Custom Dentures
These are also known as ‘precision attachments.’ They are fitted to the exact specifications of the patient. They are intended for people who have lost all their teeth and do not have any roots remaining – perfect for use with implant technology. They are designed to be more durable and comfortable.
Implant-Supported Dentures
This is a removable one that uses dental implants as anchors, providing increased stability. Teeth can then be replaced one at a time using precision attachments. This type of system enables patients to experience increased speech clarity and chewing ability while easily fitting into a patient’s existing smile.
Partial Dentures
With a combination of natural teeth and removable appliances, partial ones are often used to replace one or more missing teeth. The foundation of the appliance is similar to that of conventional ones with the addition of metal clasps that attach to existing teeth or dental implant posts. They are often used to replace smaller groups of teeth close together.
Overdentures
These are intended to attach to dental implants or other teeth. This type follows the same process as conventional ones with the addition of metal clasps that connect existing teeth, implant posts, or other supported appliances, such as bridges.
Upper Dentures
These are some of the most common types of partial dental appliances. They are attached to existing teeth on either side of the upper arch but not along both sides. This helps prevent them from slipping out or shifting when talking or chewing, allowing increased speech clarity and bite force that cannot be obtained with complete ones.
Denture Process
Typically, these are custom-made and require several visits to the dentist. Each time, impressions of your teeth and gums will be taken to get an accurate rendering of your mouth’s shape and size. This impression is then sent off for fabrication.
At the first appointment or two appointments, at least temporary ones can be made for you to wear while your customized ones are being manufactured. These provisional teeth allow you to eat, speak and maintain the function of your original teeth.
During the second or third appointment, the dentist can remove any remaining teeth and start working on their support structure by attaching them to dental implants. They will then be taken home to wear as a temporary prosthesis.
A few weeks later, your dentist will remove the temporary one and insert the final product – a permanent set of teeth that give you back all the functions of your original teeth. The entire process can take up to six months or more for complete fabrication.
Artificial teeth can be pretty complex and require a thorough consultation with your dentist. Be sure to ask them any questions you have so that you are clear on how the process of making your new teeth will work.
