What Kind of Dentures Are Best for You?

Dentures have long been the standard for replacing teeth, as they have many benefits and are known to be reliable. As dentistry and technology have both improved over the years, there are now more options than ever when it comes to different types of dentures. Having a thorough understanding of each type can be helpful when trying to decide which one to go with.

Denture types and what to know about them

Here is a list of the different types of dentures that a patient can consider when replacing missing teeth. This information can be beneficial to those who are looking into the available options.

Removable full or partial dentures

The most common type of dentures is removable and for a full arch, whether it is the top or bottom arch. They can be removed at night for cleaning and to avoid issues resulting from bruxism.

Partial removable dentures are exactly as they sound. They can be used for patients who only have a few teeth missing that are all next to each other. This type of denture is small and fits directly over the space where the missing teeth once were. A significant difference between full and partial removable dentures is that partial ones are often made with metal pieces.

Implant-supported dentures

In the past, removable dentures were the only option available to those with missing teeth. However, that is not the case anymore. Instead, fully fixed dentures are available to those with an entire arch missing. Fully fixed dentures are typically supported by dental implants, which are small prosthetics that get surgically placed in the bone, beneath the gums.

The advantage of implant-supported dentures is that they stay in place, meaning there is no way to remove them, which can reduce sliding or mobility issues. However, with this option, patients must understand that surgery is necessary and that the process can take up to a year due to the need for the implants to fuse with the bone naturally.

Flexible dentures

Flexible dentures are also partial and removable but more comfortable due to their material makeup. Unlike the traditional full or partial denture pieces, these ones are made of nylon, which is thin and flexible, making for a more comfortable experience when eating or wearing them.

Temporary dentures

Many individuals with missing teeth opt for temporary dentures to kickstart the replacement process. Temporary dentures are exactly as they sound. They are an affordable, non-custom set of artificial teeth that can be used for eating, speaking, or simply interacting in social situations.