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Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. They usually consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base, which is held in place in the mouth.

What are dentures?

A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. There are two types of dentures: full and partial, depending on how many natural teeth you have lost or still have left.

Full dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing. The denture consists of a gum-colored plastic base that supports the natural-looking prosthetic teeth. The base of the upper denture covers the palate (the roof of the mouth), while the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to leave room for the tongue. Dentures can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth so that others may not notice that you have a replacement tooth. However, it may take you some time to get used to your new denture. Over time, your cheek muscles and tongue may grow accustomed to having something in their mouth and you may become more used to speaking and eating with your denture. Some patients experience minor irritation or soreness for the first few weeks after getting dentures. This is normal and should be temporary as long as your denture fits correctly and does not cause pain.

Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth still remain in the upper or lower jaw. This type of denture is crafted with a gum-colored base and artificial teeth. It is held in place with metal clips that attach to your surrounding natural teeth. The American Dental Association recommends replacing your removable partial denture every five to seven years. Like full dentures, you may need to take some time to adjust to wearing this replacement tooth. Since a partial denture covers less surface area in your mouth than a full denture, it may feel more stable. When getting used to your partial denture, practice speaking and eating at home before venturing out in public. This will help make your adjustment period go more smoothly.

Why are people missing teeth?

There are many reasons why someone might lose a tooth, including gum disease or injury. No matter the reason, it’s important to replace that tooth right away to avoid problems like misalignment and teeth loss, which can lead to serious oral health issues.

Dentures are one option to replace missing teeth. They’re a good choice for people who have lost most or all of their teeth because they are supported by the gums and other structures in the mouth, whereas dental implants are supported by the jawbone and the surrounding tissue. (See our dental implant page to learn more about how implants work.)

For people who wear dentures, their dentist will likely fit them with new dentures about every five to eight years. That’s because the jaw tissues can change over time, causing the shape of the face and jaws to change as well.

People who wear partial dentures will also have to have those replaced periodically as the crowns will wear down or the supporting teeth may shift. Sometimes, they may need to be replaced more often if the teeth are damaged in any way or if the patient grinds his or her teeth at night.

If you’re concerned about getting a new denture, keep in mind that your dentist will take precise measurements and will carefully design your denture to fit properly in your mouth. It may take some time to get used to wearing your new teeth in the beginning, but after a few days, your mouth will adjust and you’ll be ready to get back to your life!

#DentistFacts

*10% of people over the age of 65 have no natural teeth due to tooth decay.*

*90% of adults ages 35-44 have had at least one cavity.*

*80% of teenagers ages 12-15 have had at least one cavity.*

*Dental sealants reduce cavities by as much as 70 percent in school-age children.*

How will dentures benefit me?

If you have missing teeth, you may not realize how important your teeth are to your general health and well being. Your teeth provide stimulation to the tissues in the jaw, meaning that you are not only able to bite and chew with confidence, but your jaw also remains strong and vital as well. When you lose a tooth, your jawbone atrophies at the site of the lost tooth, leading to bone loss in your jaw. Dentures can help stop the progressive changes that occur once the tooth is lost by filling the empty space in your mouth with artificial teeth. This in turn provides stimulation to the remaining healthy areas of your gums and jaw, which keeps them strong and healthy. This is the best way to ensure that your smile will continue to look great for a lifetime. Dental Implants vs. Dentures|Dental implants are usually paired with dental crowns or bridges to replace one or more missing teeth. In addition to being an attractive way to restore your smile, dental implants can also prevent further tooth loss by preventing jaw bone atrophy. However, not everyone is a good candidate for dental implants—their cost is prohibitive for some patients, while others may not be willing or able to undergo a dental implant procedure. In these cases, removable dentures may be the best option available. -Dr. Rob Schumacher, a dentist in Plano TX, explains the differences between dental implants and dentures. (Source)

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Denture types explained

A denture is a removable prosthetic used to replace your missing teeth and surrounding tissues. There are two types of dentures - complete and partial. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Both types of dentures are custom crafted to fit your smile comfortably and blend in seamlessly with your surrounding teeth for a natural appearance.__What are dentures?__