There are two main types of dentures:

1) Complete Dentures: replace all the teeth in either one or both jaws

2) Partial Dentures: fills in the spaces created by missing teeth either in upper or lower jaws, and prevents other teeth from changing position

The Procedure:

The dentist makes an impression and a wax bite to determine vertical dimensions and proper jaw position. A “try-in” is placed to assure proper color, shape and fit. The patient’s final denture is placed, following any minor adjustments.

Advantages:

A denture improves chewing ability and speech, and provides support for facial muscles. It greatly enhances the facial appearance and the smile. It is inexpensive compared to other extensive restorations like bridgework or implants.

Disadvantages:

One of the significant disadvantages of dentures is resorbtion or shrinking of the underlying bone. The bone is normally maintained by the stresses of chewing. When the teeth have been removed, the bone is no longer subject to the same stress, and therefore begins to atrophy. The use of dental implants instead of dentures maintains the same kinds of stress on the underlying bone and prevents bone resorbtion.

Alternatives:

Dental implants are the alternative choice to dentures. They can be used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating the need for a denture, and most importantly, implants and bridges more closely resemble the “feel” of real teeth.