A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. It is made of acrylic resin, sometimes in combination with metal attachments. Dentures are appropriate for anyone who has lost teeth due to decay, injury, or disease. Generally, dentures are recommended for people who have lost most or all of their teeth. They are used to improve the appearance and function of a person’s smile.
The cost of dentures can vary widely depending on the type of dentures and the materials used. Generally speaking, complete dentures can range in cost from several hundred to several thousand dollars.
Pros and Cons of Wearing Dentures
Are you seriously considering dentures but still undecided whether they match your needs or requirements? Where dentures are concerned, here are two sides of the coin:
Advantages
- Dentures can improve a person’s appearance and confidence.
- Dentures can help you to chew and bite better.
- Dentures can help to restore the shape of a person’s face.
- Dentures can help to improve speech.
- Dentures can help to prevent jaw problems.
- Dentures can help to improve the shape of a person’s mouth.
Disadvantages
- Dentures can be uncomfortable and require a period of adjustment.
- Dentures can cause sores and irritation in the mouth.
- Dentures can cause problems with taste and swallowing.
- Dentures can be difficult to clean and maintain.
- Dentures can be expensive to replace.
- Dentures can cause changes in the shape of the jawbone over time.
Types of Dentures
There are different kinds of dentures, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
- Conventional full dentures – The most common type of dentures are full dentures, which are used to replace all of the teeth in a single arch. They are placed in the mouth after all remaining teeth are removed and tissues have healed, which usually takes several months. Full dentures can be fixed onto the gums with natural suction, or they can be secured with adhesive. Full dentures are made to look like natural teeth and can help restore a person’s smile and ability to eat and speak properly.
- Immediate dentures – These are complete dentures that are placed in the mouth immediately after the remaining teeth are removed. Because the tissues shrink as they heal, adjustments may be needed in the future.
- Partial dentures – These are removable appliances that are used when one or more natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw. They are usually made of metal and plastic and are held in place with clasps that attach to existing teeth. Partial dentures are usually removable and can help to prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of position.
- Overdentures – These are dentures that fit over a small number of remaining natural teeth after they have been prepared by a dentist. Overdentures are held in place by dental implants. However, they are a more secure and stable option than traditional dentures.
- Implant-supported dentures – These are dentures that are supported by and attached to a series of dental implants. They offer a more permanent option than traditional dentures. Made of metal and plastic and attached to screws that are implanted into the jawbone, implant-supported dentures provide a more secure fit than their traditional counterparts.
Choose Your Dentures Wiseley
When choosing dentures, be sure to consider a variety of factors such as the type, quality, and fit of the dentures. Different dentures are available in different sizes, shapes, and materials, so make sure to find the ones that best fit your mouth and lifestyle. You also want to make sure the dentures are made by a reputable Canberra dentist or laboratory and that they are comfortable and secure in your mouth. Finally, make sure you have your dentist adjust and refit your dentures as needed to ensure proper fit and function.