Dentures

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable teeth that can be used to replace several or all of the teeth in a patient's mouth. They are a welcomed alternative for patients who are not candidates for dental implants, or they can be used in combination with dental implants to provide increased retention.

Dentures are typically made of acrylic or plastic to mimic the appearance of the gums, while the false teeth are made of porcelain.

Advantages of this treatment

• Can replace several missing teeth
• Improves the appearance of the smile
• Prevents shifting of remaining teeth
• Helps support facial structures
• Prevents bone and gum recession
• Increases comfort while chewing and speaking
• More affordable than dental implants

Types of Dentures

The type of denture depends on the patient's oral health condition, the number of teeth being replaced, the doctor's recommendations and patient preference. We offer full dentures, ideal for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth, and partial dentures, which replace only a few teeth and prevent others from shifting.

Full dentures can be placed either immediately after teeth are extracted or after healing. “Immediate” dentures are convenient in that there is no waiting, but they often require resizing once healing is complete. “Conventional” full dentures are placed only after the gums have healed. Partial dentures often do not require extraction and are secured to the natural teeth with metal clasps.

Another type is an implant-supported or implant-retained denture. This involves placing two to four dental implants, which removable dentures then securely latch onto. It's an excellent option for patients who cannot receive a full set of implants but still want comparable comfort and strength.

Denture Procedure

The process takes place over several months. During an initial consultation, Dr. Durán performs a comprehensive analysis of the patient's oral health to determine candidacy. Once the treatment course is decided, an impression of the jaw is made to determine the final shape and size. The bite is measured and the shade selected. This is sent to the dental lab, and once the denture returns, the patient comes back for the final fitting.

Patients often experience some discomfort in the first few weeks. It takes time to get used to wearing the prosthetic and feel comfortable talking and chewing. We provide thorough post-procedure care, including follow-up appointments to ensure a proper fit. Keeping up healthy oral hygiene habits is vital to prevent complications or infections.