Dentures

Although the most preferred option of replacing missing teeth in modern dentistry is implants, sometimes this is not viable due to the overall health, gum conditions or lifestyle factors. Dentures can be made to replace anywhere between one to all missing teeth. When a denture replaces some missing teeth rather than all, it is called a partial denture; and when it replaces all teeth in the arch, it is called a full denture.

Partial dentures are made either in acrylic or in a combination of metal and acrylic. Acrylic dentures are easier to fabricate and allows more flexibility in terms of future repairs and additions, but they provided limited function as they are mostly supported by your gums. Metal dentures are held mostly by remaining teeth and can give more confidence in chewing, but due to their unfavourable load they can affect the lifespan of the remaining teeth. Partial dentures may increase build up of plaque and require good home care practices.

Full dentures are often made entirely in acrylic and replace all missing teeth in an arch. These can be challenging to get used to and provides limited function compared to your natural dentition. Lower dentures tend to have very limited function.

All forms of dentures are prone to shrinking bones, and eventually will require relines to improve fit. The comfort and function of dentures are limited, but can be improved if they are mounted to implants.