Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and/or surrounding tissues. Fake teeth have been used for a long time, as early as since 700 B.C. Obviously, things have improved greatly since that time, nowadays’ dentures being used can be easily look like the real teeth.

Types of dentures

At the moment, there are two types of dentures available: complete and partial ones.

Complete dentures replace an entire set of natural teeth. They are made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissues begin to heal. Usually, a complete denture can be installed in 8 to 12 weeks after the teeth have been removed. Complete dentures can be made out of acrylic or chrome cobalt. The latter ones give the patient more comfort and stronger structure.

Partial dentures

Partial dentures are for those who have lost one or several teeth. They are used when at least one or more natural teeth have remained attached in the patient’s jaw. A partial denture is basically a bridge that can cover the holes in your smile left by the missing teeth. It is made out of a pink acrylic base that is set with real-looking false teeth. The entire construction is supported by a metal framework.

Removable or permanent

Partial dentures can have two modes for attachment: removable or permanent. The removable ones use metal clasps so that they can attach to the remaining natural teeth, while the permanent ones are bonded directly to the teeth for a more secure fit.

There is one more option available for those that have lost at least one tooth: implant retained dentures. These are artificial teeth that are inserted into the jawbone that look and feel exactly like real teeth. In order for a patient to take this treatment, he or she must have healthy gums and acceptable bone levels so that the implants can properly fuse with the jawbone. For more information on dentures please contact our friendly team at Dublin18 Dental Care near Leopardstown.