What are Dentures?
If you are missing teeth, it is important to have them replaced as soon as possible to preserve your oral health. If you have gaps in your smile, the remaining teeth can begin to shift out of place, causing further oral health issues. This is where dentures can help.
Dentures are artificial tooth replacements designed to fill gaps in your smile so that your facial profile is maintained, your other teeth remain in the correct position, and you can eat and speak properly. They can be used to replace one tooth, several missing teeth in a row, or a whole jaw of missing teeth.
Airport Heights Dental Health Centre offers three different types of dentures that can be used in different situations. If you are missing one or more teeth, dentures may be a great affordable replacement option.
Types of Dentures
Whether you need dentures to replace one missing tooth, a row of teeth or a whole set, your dentist can help you decide on the right option for you.
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Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used if you're missing one or more teeth. They are made up of one or more artificial teeth and are held in place by fitting on or around your natural teeth.
Partial dentures are a great option if you are looking for a removable solution or if the teeth surrounding the gap are not strong enough to support a dental bridge. They can be removed for eating and sleeping.
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Full Dentures
Full dentures, also sometimes referred to as 'false teeth' or 'complete dentures', are used when you are missing a whole jaw of teeth.
These dentures are fitted to your upper and/or lower gums and are usually held in place by suction and/or an oral adhesive.
Full dentures are designed to be removed for cleaning and sleeping.
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Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are designed to be a long-lasting solution to missing teeth. Unlike full or partial dentures, implant-supported dentures are not removable by anyone but your dentist.
A benefit of implant-supported dentures is their stability and comfortability. They are designed to fit securely in your mouth so that you can eat and speak like usual.
Why Dentures May Be Used
If there are no teeth to hold the muscles of your cheeks up, your face can begin to sag, which can make you look older. Getting a tooth replacement, such as dentures, can help fill out the appearance of your facial profile. Additionally, dentures can be made to match your natural teeth, so they shouldn't change your appearance.
Filling in gaps created by missing teeth is also vital to your oral health long-term. Dentures can help prevent remaining teeth from shifting around, which can lead to gum disease and problems with eating and speaking.