Partial Dentures:
Removable partial dentures usually consist of metal framework and replacement teeth are attached to the framework with pink or gum-colored plastic bases. They attach to your natural teeth either with precision attachments or metal clasps. Precision attachments are more esthetic than metal clasps as you can hardly see them and hence more expensive too.
Complete Dentures:
They are an option when the patients have lost all of their teeth. They have teeth fitted to a plastic base. There are 2 types of complete dentures
- Conventional Dentures: They are made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissues has healed. The healing process may take several months and hence the entire process may take about 12-20 weeks.
- Immediate Dentures: Unlike Conventional dentures, immediate dentures are made before the teeth are extracted and are placed in the mouth as soon as the teeth are extracted. Thus there is not a period when the patient is not without any teeth. As the bones and gums continue to heal after the extractions, one of the disadvantages of immediate denture is that they will need more adjustments.
Wearing a new partial or complete denture may feel awkward for the first few weeks and will need getting used to it. Your dentist will show you how to take your denture in and out as it requires some practice. You will also be given instructions of how to take care of them as the longevity of your denture will depend on its care. For more questions, please talk to your dentist.