What Is a Denture?

A healthy, radiant smile can have a significant impact on your confidence and overall well-being. However, tooth loss due to decay, injury, or age can affect your ability to smile with confidence. In such cases, dentures can be a valuable solution.

But what is a denture, and how can it help restore your smile?

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are made to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are custom-made to fit the shape of your teeth, gums, and mouth and mimic the appearance and function of your natural teeth.

Depending on the number of teeth that need replacement, you can get different types of dentures.

Full dentures are used when all the teeth in one or both arches need to be replaced. Conventional full dentures can be placed after all the teeth are gone, and the gum tissue is healed. Immediate full dentures are placed immediately after the extraction process. These can sometimes need adjustments since the gum and bone can change shape during healing.

Partial dentures are used when there are some natural teeth still left. They fill in the gaps left by the extracted teeth and prevent shifting.

Implant-supported dentures are anchored in the mouth using implants, which are surgically placed in the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures are quite secure and stable since they are fixed to the jawbone.

The Use of Dentures

Dentures are quite important for restoring several aspects of oral health and well-being. They can replace missing teeth, which makes it easier to chew and speak. Of course, they are important from a visual aspect since they improve your smile and appearance. They can also reduce the strain on your remaining teeth and prevent oral health problems.

Missing teeth can also sometimes lead to changes in facial structure, causing sagging and premature aging. Dentures support the facial muscles, helping you appear youthful.

Most importantly, dentures can restore your self-esteem and confidence by giving you a complete, functional smile.

If you’re looking for a dentist who deals with dentures, Meadows Family Dentistry is your go-to! We can advise you on the type of dentures that work best for your circumstances, get them made, and teach you how to care for your dentures properly.