Partial and full dentures
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
What is a denture
Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are used when a person has lost some or all of their natural teeth for various reasons, such as decay, gum disease, trauma, or age-related factors. Dentures help restore the appearance and functionality of the mouth, allowing individuals to chew, speak, and smile with greater ease.
What is the procedure
The process of getting dentures typically involves several steps:
Dental Examination: The prosthodontist examines the patient's oral health and discusses the best treatment options for replacing missing teeth.
Impressions: Accurate impressions of the mouth are taken to create a mould for constructing the dentures.
Trial Fitting: A preliminary set of dentures (wax try-in) is created to check fit, appearance, and comfort. Adjustments may be made at this stage to ensure a proper fit.
Final Fitting: The final fitting takes place once the dentures are fabricated in a dental laboratory. The prosthodontist ensures the dentures fit well and function properly in the patient's mouth.
Adjustment Period: It may take some time for patients to adjust to wearing dentures. Initially, there may be some discomfort or difficulty with speaking and eating, but most individuals adapt to their new dentures with practice.
Auckland dentures require regular care and maintenance. Proper cleaning, soaking, and regular dental check-ups are essential to keep them in good condition and ensure a healthy mouth.
What are the benefits
While dentures offer a functional and cost-effective solution for missing teeth, they may not provide the same stability as natural teeth or dental implants. In cases where dental implants are suitable, implant-supported dentures may be recommended for improved stability and retention.
What types of dentures are available
There are two main types of dentures:
Complete Dentures: Or, full dentures in Auckland are used when all natural teeth are missing. They consist of a full set of artificial teeth mounted on an acrylic base that resembles gum tissue. Complete dentures are custom-made to fit the patient's mouth and rest on the gums, supporting the facial muscles and improving facial aesthetics.
Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain in the mouth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth attached to a metal or acrylic framework, which holds the denture in place by clasping onto the remaining natural teeth. Partial dentures fill in the gaps left by missing teeth and help prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of position.