Are you considering getting a dental implant? Before you do, we advise you to read up on the possible risk brought by dental implants. You must also be aware of the cost of dental implants maintenance. But we suggest that you get dentures instead if you can’t afford an implant yet. Dentures are teeth replacements which are removable. The two types of dentures are partial and complete. In a gist, partial dentures are used to replace a few or several lost teeth. On the other hand, complete dentures are used when you lose all your natural teeth.
Partial Dentures
This is one of the two types of dentures. This denture is used when one, two or more natural teeth are still intact either in the upper or the lower jaw. Its primary function is to fill in the spaces left by or replace the missing teeth. Its other function is to prevent deformation of the position of the remaining teeth. In this type of denture, the replacement teeth are attached to the plastic base which resembles the gum, which explains its pinkish color. A metal framework connects the teeth and holds it in place in the mouth. Instead of clasps, it has internal attachments, which make it look more natural-looking and comfortable to have.
Complete Dentures
Of the two types of dentures, this is the one you use if you have lost all your natural teeth. As its name suggests, you literally replace your entire natural teeth with dentures. There are two types of complete dentures, immediate and conventional. Immediate type is made before your teeth are removed. That way, they can be positioned in your mouth as soon as your teeth have been removed. So you don’t have to be toothless while your gums are on the healing process because you can wear this immediately; thus, the name. On the other hand, conventional dentures are only positioned or placed in the mouth 8 to 12 weeks after your teeth have been removed. This is because the gum tissue needs to undergo healing period first before a conventional denture is placed as a replacement.
- Immediate versus Conventional
Let us weigh in these types of dentures. The immediate type, as its name suggests, is only be a temporary solution. They require more adjustments and they don’t fit properly after the healing process. This is because gums and bones in the mouth shrink over time especially during the healing process. If you want a long-lasting solution, you should use the conventional type.
The Alternatives
If you want another alternative aside from traditional dentures or the types of dentures mentioned above, you can always resort to dental implants. Implants resemble and feel more like real teeth than dentures. However, not everyone can have implants. It will depend on the recommendation of your dentist. Also, it is way more costly.
Please note that East Valley Dental Professionals does not perform dental implant procedures–we do dental implant reconstruction. This information has been provided for educational purposes only. You are more than welcome to contact us to set up an appointment to discuss which approach is right for you.