Dentures

Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and adjacent tissues.  A denture improves chewing ability and provides support for facial muscles.  It will greatly enhance the facial appearance and smile.  It is made of acrylic resin, sometimes in combination with various metals.  Complete dentures replace all the teeth, while a partial denture fills in the spaces created by missing teeth and prevents other teeth from changing position.  Complete dentures are either 'conventional' or 'immediate.'  An immediate denture is placed as soon as the teeth are removed.  The drawback with an immediate denture is that it may require more adjustments after the healing has taken place.  A conventional denture is placed in the mouth about six months after all the teeth are removed to allow for proper healing.

The denture process takes about one month and five appointments: the initial diagnosis is made; an impression and a wax bite are made to determine vertical dimensions and a proper jaw position; a 'try-in' is place to assure proper color, shape and fit; and the patient's final denture is placed, following any minor adjustments.

What to know before you get a Denture

Proper care of your Denture