Are you considering dentures to replace missing teeth? If so, it’s important to know the different types available and their pros and cons. At Wilton Smiles, we provide a range of denture options that can help restore your smile and improve your oral health.
1. Complete Dentures
Complete dentures, also known as full dentures, replace an entire set of teeth. They are made of acrylic resin and are only supported by the remaining hard and soft tissues in your mouth.
Pros:
- They restore eating and chewing ability.
- They can improve self-esteem and confidence.
- They help maintain a fuller, more youthful appearance.
Cons:
- They require regular maintenance, including relines and repairs.
- The retention of lower dentures can decline over time.
- They can slip out of place when speaking or eating.
- A lisp may develop in some people.
2. Fixed Partial Dentures (Implant-Supported Bridge)
Fixed partial dentures replace a few missing teeth in a row with two dental implants and a prosthetic tooth or teeth in between. These dentures are permanently fixed into the mouth and are ideal for patients with three or more missing teeth in a row.
Pros:
- They offer improved aesthetics.
- Patients typically feel more secure with fixed (permanent) dentures.
- They are stronger than removable false teeth.
- They maintain consistent tooth positioning and offer a better bite.
Cons:
- They require surgical installation.
- They are more expensive than removable dentures.
- They can be more difficult to clean, requiring special floss.
3. Removable Partial Dentures
Removable partial dentures only replace some missing teeth and can be easily removed and replaced. They consist of false teeth and a gum-colored base made of acrylic.
Pros:
- They are durable due to the underlying metal framework.
- They are easily removable for cleaning.
- They help maintain the structural integrity of your mouth, preventing teeth from shifting.
Cons:
- They can only be used to replace some missing teeth.
- They may have visible metal clasps when smiling.
- They are prone to plaque buildup if not cleaned properly.
4. Implant-Retained Dentures (Overdentures)
Overdentures, also known as implant-supported dentures, are held in place on top of your gums by dental implants. They offer more stability and chewing function than conventional dentures.
Pros:
- They are stable and robust.
- They won’t loosen while speaking.
- They offer good chewing ability.
- They provide a comfortable, custom fit.
- They look more aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking than traditional dentures.
Cons:
- They require invasive surgery.
- They take more time for treatment.
- They are more expensive than other types of dentures.
- They may require a bone graft or sinus augmentation to support the denture implants.
- The attachments can become loose and require tightening.
Choosing the right type of denture depends on your specific needs, oral health status, and lifestyle. Visit us at Wilton Smiles for a consultation, and we’ll guide you through the process of choosing the best denture option for you. Our goal is to provide you with a solution that helps restore your smile and your confidence.
