Dentures, also commonly known as false teeth, have been around for centuries, serving as a reliable solution for individuals with missing teeth. As time has progressed, so has the technology and materials used to create dentures, making them more comfortable, natural-looking, and durable than ever before. We’ll give you all the info you need about the construction of dentures, what they look like, the various types available, and the immense benefits they can provide.
What are Dentures Made Of?
In the past, a variety of materials were used for dentures, including ivory, bone, and even real human teeth. Modern dentures are usually composed of a combination of acrylic resin and metal.
The teeth part of the denture is typically made of acrylic resin or porcelain. Acrylic is often preferred because it is lighter, less breakable, and easier to adjust. However, porcelain teeth can offer a more natural appearance due to its translucent quality, similar to natural tooth enamel.
The denture base, also known as the plate, which holds the artificial teeth and fits over the gums, is generally made from a pink-colored acrylic material designed to mimic the look of your natural gums. In some instances, metal may be used to provide additional structural support, especially in the case of partial dentures.
What Do Dentures Look Like?
Dentures today are designed to look just like real teeth. The aim of these replacement teeth is to replicate the appearance of natural teeth and gums, ensuring that they are indistinguishable from the real thing when worn. The color, shape, and size of denture teeth can be customized to match the wearer’s original teeth, or to create an improved aesthetic if desired.
The base of the denture is carefully crafted to fit comfortably and snugly over the wearer’s gums. It’s also designed to accommodate the natural movements of the mouth and facial muscles when speaking and eating.
Types of Dentures and Their Composition
Full Dentures
These are conventional dentures that replace all of the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, or both. Full or complete dentures consist of a full set of artificial teeth attached to an acrylic base that matches the color of your gums.
Conventional full dentures are made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has begun to heal. This process typically takes about four to six weeks, during which time you will be without teeth. Once the gum tissue is sufficiently healed, these custom-fitted dentures are placed in the mouth.
These removable dentures are adhered to your gums with a denture adhesive and are meant to be removed at night.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are a type of dental prosthetic designed to replace one or several missing teeth rather than a full set. They are an ideal solution for individuals who have some natural teeth remaining in the upper or lower jaw.
A partial denture usually consists of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base, which is sometimes connected by a metal framework that holds the denture in place in the mouth. They are custom-made to fit the mouth and can be easily removed for cleaning and sleeping.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures, sometimes referred to as over-dentures or permanent dentures, are a type of denture that is secured in place by dental implants. They’re a popular alternative to conventional dentures, offering better stability and functionality.
Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, implant-supported dentures are anchored to and supported by dental implants, which are titanium posts surgically embedded into the jawbone. The implants serve as the roots for your artificial teeth and can hold a full or partial denture in place. A major benefit to implant-supported dentures is that they help prevent bone loss that can distort facial features.
Temporary Dentures
Temporary dentures, or immediate dentures, are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed. The major benefit of immediate dentures is that the wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period and while the complete dentures are made.
However, bone tissues and gums shrink over time, especially during the healing process following tooth extraction, so temporary dentures require more frequent dental visits and adjustments to fit properly during the healing process. They are generally considered a temporary solution until conventional dentures can be made.
The Benefits of Dentures
Dentures come with numerous benefits that make them a popular choice for individuals with missing teeth. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Restores Oral Function: Quality dentures enable you to chew food properly and speak clearly, improving your quality of life.
- Enhances Appearance: By filling out your facial profile, dentures can give you a more youthful appearance and boost your self-confidence.
- Customizable: Dentures can be tailored to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth, giving you a more natural-looking smile.
- Protects Remaining Teeth: If you have partial dentures, they can improve your oral hygiene and help protect your remaining natural teeth from wear and tear.
Who Can Benefit from Dentures?
Almost anyone who has lost one or more teeth–whether from tooth decay, periodontal disease, or injury–can benefit from dentures. They’re an especially good option for individuals who aren’t good candidates for dental implants or bridges due to unhealthy gums or insufficient bone density. With the advancements in dental technology, dentures are now more comfortable and realistic-looking than ever before, making them a suitable choice for people of all ages.
Need Dentures? Contact North Atlanta Family Dentistry!
If you are in need of dentures, North Atlanta Family Dentistry is the place to go! We offer a variety of denture services, including full dentures, partial dentures, and implant-supported dentures. Our experienced team will work with you to create dentures that fit comfortably and look natural. Plus, we use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that your dentures are of the highest quality. So if you need dentures, don’t hesitate to contact us today!
