Missing teeth impact a person’s ability to speak and chew, as well as the overall appearance of their smile. Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding gum tissues. They restore oral structures, support facial muscles, and improve functional capabilities. Modern restorative dentistry aims to provide replacements that are comfortable and effective for daily use.
Defining the Four Major Types of Dentures
When an entire arch of teeth, either upper or lower, is missing, a Complete Denture is the appropriate solution. This appliance rests directly on the gum tissue and the underlying bone ridge for support. The upper denture often covers the palate to create suction for retention. They are custom-fabricated to mimic natural gums and teeth, restoring the ability to chew and speak clearly.
When a patient retains some healthy natural teeth, a Partial Denture is used to fill the gaps created by the missing teeth. These devices consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored acrylic base, often reinforced by a metal framework. Metal clasps or precision attachments hook onto the remaining natural teeth, providing stability. This prevents existing teeth from shifting into the empty spaces.
A third major category is the Immediate Denture, which is planned and fabricated before the natural teeth are extracted. This appliance is placed into the mouth immediately following the removal of the remaining teeth. Immediate dentures serve as a temporary appliance and a “surgical bandage” during the initial healing period. As the gums and bone heal, the tissues shrink and change shape. This requires the immediate denture to be relined or ultimately replaced with a conventional, permanent denture.
The fourth type, the Overdenture, offers enhanced stability and retention. This appliance is unique because it gains support not just from the gum tissue, but also from remaining tooth roots or dental implants. By utilizing the roots or implants, the overdenture “snaps” or rests securely over these anchors. This significantly reduces movement during eating and speaking. Retention of even a few tooth roots helps preserve the jawbone structure, which would otherwise deteriorate over time.
The Fabrication Process and Required Adjustments
The journey to receiving a custom-fitted denture begins with a detailed assessment and the creation of precise oral impressions. The dental team uses preliminary impressions to create a custom-fitted tray for a more accurate secondary impression. Accurate bite registration is then recorded, often using wax blocks, to determine the correct vertical height and how the upper and lower jaws align.
A dental laboratory creates a wax model of the denture with artificial teeth set in place. This wax try-in appointment allows the patient and dentist to evaluate the aesthetics, fit, and function before the final appliance is processed. The teeth can be repositioned and the wax base adjusted easily at this stage to ensure patient satisfaction. Once approved, the wax model is converted into the final hard acrylic or resin material.
The final delivery involves placing the completed appliance and checking for pressure spots. Initial adjustments are necessary to refine the fit and occlusion, as mouth tissues react to the new device. Patients who receive immediate dentures require multiple follow-up visits for adjustments, and eventually a reline or new denture, because gum tissues shrink substantially as extraction sites heal.
Essential Daily Care and Maintenance
Daily care ensures the denture’s longevity and maintains the health of underlying oral tissues. The appliance must be cleaned daily using a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser. Regular toothpaste should be avoided because its abrasive nature can scratch the acrylic surface, allowing bacteria to accumulate. Rinsing the denture under running water after every meal removes loose food particles.
When handling the appliance, individuals should hold it over a soft surface, such as a folded towel or a basin of water, to prevent breakage. Dentures should never be cleaned or soaked in hot water, as high temperatures can cause the acrylic material to warp and permanently alter the fit. When not being worn, dentures must be kept moist, usually by soaking them overnight in water or a specialized cleansing solution.
Removing the denture at night allows the gum tissues to rest and helps prevent irritation and infection. It is important to clean the mouth by gently brushing the gums, tongue, and palate to stimulate circulation and remove bacteria. Regular professional check-ups are necessary to examine the oral tissues, check the fit of the denture, and ensure there are no developing issues.