Dental Prostheses (Dentures)
What is a removable prosthesis?A removable prosthesis is an apparatus replacing a missing tooth or teeth that the patient can take out and put back in place. A variety of apparatuses are available include complete denture, partial denture, immediate denture and overdenture.
Complete denturesDentures are a prosthesis used when there are no remaining natural teeth. They are made of acrylic and are supported by the tooth tissue of the lower and upper jaws. This method is applied in cases when implants are not possible. Using porcelain teeth in dentures is not considered appropriate, so plastic teeth are used. With time however, the color of these artificial teeth may change.
Partial denturesIn situations in which some natural teeth remain and a portion has been extracted, removable partial dentures may be used. These may be made of acrylic or a single piece of molding. This type of prosthesis is secured to the main teeth with metal clasps. For patients who do not find these clasps aesthetically pleasing, precision attachments with a more attractive appearance can be made.
How many days does it take to make them? How many times will I have to visit the dentist?Dentures take an average of two weeks to prepare because of measurements and various tests that have to be made.
Are they easy to use?Due to the fact that dentures must be inserted and removed, they are more difficult than other types of prostheses. They can be placed easily in the upper and lower jaws but are not as comfortable as fixed prostheses such as crowns or bridges.
Will I get used to using them?When you first start using them, the dentures may cause sores and cuts in the mouth. After awhile, however, the sores will heal and the dentures will function like your natural teeth.
Will I be able to eat comfortably?Dentures are created on an individual basis according to measurements of the patient’s mouth. The stability of the dentures depends on the bone mass of the upper and lower jaws. If this bone mass is sufficient, the dentures will stay firmly in place and you will be able to grind food comfortably. There may be some difficulty in the beginning as the cheek and lip muscles adjust to the presence of the dentures. After that, however, comfortable biting, grinding and cutting functions will be possible.
