MOVABLE PROSTHESES

MOVABLE PROSTHESES

Dentures are removable dentures made to replace missing teeth. They are supported by surrounding the soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity. Total dentures, also called a complete denture, replace all natural teeth and provide support for the cheeks and lips. By replacing missing teeth, dentures not only support sagging facial muscles but also improve a person’s ability to speak and eat. Total dentures are divided into two categories.

Traditional dentures are made and placed after the remaining teeth have been extracted and the tissues have healed. Dentures are placed immediately after the remaining teeth are extracted. The advantage of this type of prosthesis is that the patient does not remain toothless during the recovery period.

Removable Dentures

A removable denture fills the gap created by missing teeth and enhances your smile. A removable denture usually consists of replacement teeth attached to pink or bubblegum-colored plastic bases that are connected by a metal frame and attached to your natural teeth with metal clasps or precision attachments. While precision attachments are nearly invisible, they often require crowns over your natural teeth for a precise fit and are generally more expensive than those with metal clasps.

Implant Supported Prostheses

Dentures are a way to replace missing teeth so you can functionally chew your food and have a pleasant smile. However, because dentures sit in the mouth over the gums, they do not have tooth roots to anchor and stimulate bone growth and strengthen the jawbone. This leads to bone loss, gum recession, changes in the shape and profile of the face, and periodontal disease.

In addition to the physical changes they cause to your face, removable dentures need to be resized frequently, they can cause friction sores in the mouth, they slip, and they can impair your ability to speak clearly.