There are multiple reasons why people get dentures. It could be a simple fix for replacing a few teeth or a complete solution to replace entire missing teeth in the jaw.
However, determining the appropriate dentures for you is crucial in ensuring success and meeting your particular needs.
Typically, dentures fall under three categories:
- Conventional complete dentures
- Tooth-supported partial dentures
- Implant-supported complete dentures
Conventional complete dentures
Conventional complete dentures sit on the gum and work to replace missing teeth. While they may not be the most comfortable or fully satisfy patients' needs, they are a tolerable option to partly fulfill their intended job.
These dentures are also the cheapest solution for replacing entire missing teeth but do need to be kept clean every day. They also require check-ups with a dentist every year. While they may be more inexpensive, due to their nature, conventional complete dentures transfer the chewing force to the jaw's soft bone (Alveolar bone).
In simple terms, this transfer will eventually cause bone loss over time, causing the denture to become loose and require relining every 1.5 years.
Tooth-supported partial dentures
The most common use of tooth-supported partial dentures is to replace a few missing teeth in a jaw, using hooks or attachments to hold the denture in place. They serve as an alternative to the fixed bridge and implant-supported crown or bridge dentures.
While partial dentures with hooks may not provide the most desirable aesthetics, they are the most cost-effective way to replace a few teeth in the jaw. Additionally, if the hooks are unsatisfactory for a patient, they can be removed and replaced with precision attachments embedded in artificial crowns.
However, this should only be done by an experienced dentist.
Implant-supported complete dentures
Within the implant-supported complete dentures, the category are two sub-categories - removable and fixed dentures.
The removable versions are held in place with a bar or a group of ball attachments, which the patient can remove and clean the denture. They transfer most of the chewing load to the jaw bone with some load to the implant, as well. Depending on the patient's available bone and bone quality, a dentist will determine the required number of implants.
The fixed versions, also known as bridges, are entirely supported by implants, which the client cannot remove. These are the best option for replacing missing teeth, providing the highest level of comfort and satisfaction for patients. They must be created by an experienced dentist with implant surgery and denture training.
Your new smile begins at Ace Dental, where we believe that smiling is the key to a positive lifestyle. Give us a call to schedule a consultation and comprehensive treatment planning by Dr. Rahgozar, and explore the ideal treatment tailored to your satisfaction and fulfill your dental needs and expectations.