A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue.  They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile.  Dentures remain the most economical means of replacing multiple missing teeth at one time.

There are two types of dentures - complete and partial dentures.  Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain.  A Partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.

A Complete denture may be either “conventional” or “immediate.”  A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking 4 to 6 weeks.  During this time the patient will go without teeth.  Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process.  Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made.

Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.

What does getting dentures involve?

The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, over several weeks.  The first appointment involves taking highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements used to create your custom denture.  At the second appointment, the base or framework of the denture will be tried in, a bite registration is taken and the color and shape of the teeth are chosen.  The third appointment allows the patient to view the final set up of the denture before final processing; any changes or adjustments are made at this time.  The finished denture is then delivered at the next appointment.  Following delivery of a new denture, most patients will return two to five times for small adjustments.

It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside as you get used to the new dentures.

You will be given care instructions for your new dentures.  Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.