DENTURE
A denture is a removable dental appliance that replaces missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissue. Dentures are custom-made to fit your mouth and restore both function (chewing, speaking) and appearance (smile, facial structure). Today’s dentures look more natural and fit more comfortably thanks to advancements in dental materials and digital impressions. Some patients also opt for implant-supported dentures, which are anchored to dental implants for added stability. Dentures are a cost-effective and non-invasive solution for tooth loss, helping patients regain confidence and function in daily life.
Key functions
- Restore chewing ability
- Improve speech
- Enhance facial aesthetics
- Support lips and cheeks to prevent a sagging look
Types of Dentures:
Complete Dentures:
- Used when all teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing.
- They sit directly on the gums and are usually made from acrylic.
Partial Dentures:
- Used when some natural teeth remain.
- They consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored base and are often held in place with metal clasps or precision attachments.
What is Complete Denture?
A complete denture is a removable dental appliance used to replace all missing teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, or both. It is typically recommended for individuals who have lost all their natural teeth due to age, gum disease, decay, or injury. Complete dentures consist of a gum-colored acrylic base that fits snugly over the gums and a set of artificial teeth designed to look and function like natural ones. There are two main types: conventional dentures, which are placed after the gums have healed following tooth extraction, and immediate dentures, which are inserted right after the teeth are removed, allowing the patient to have teeth during the healing process. While upper dentures often stay in place through suction, lower dentures may require adhesives or can be stabilized further with dental implants for a more secure fit. Complete dentures help restore essential functions like chewing and speaking, support facial muscles to prevent a sunken appearance, and greatly improve the wearer’s confidence and quality of life. With proper care, regular cleaning, and occasional adjustments by a dentist, complete dentures can be a comfortable and long-lasting solution for full tooth loss.
What is Removable Partial Denture?
A removable partial denture (RPD) is a dental appliance designed to replace one or more missing teeth in a patient’s mouth when some natural teeth still remain. It consists of a gum-colored acrylic or metal base that supports artificial teeth, which are carefully crafted to match the size, shape, and color of the patient’s natural teeth. Partial dentures are designed to fit around the remaining natural teeth and are typically held in place using metal clasps, precision attachments, or flexible connectors, depending on the type and design. They help restore proper chewing function, improve speech, and prevent the shifting of adjacent teeth, which can happen when gaps are left unfilled. Removable partial dentures are a cost-effective and less invasive option compared to dental implants or fixed bridges, and they can be taken out for cleaning and sleeping. There are different types of RPDs—such as acrylic partials, metal framework partials, and flexible partials—each offering varying levels of comfort, strength, and aesthetics. With proper care and maintenance, including daily cleaning and regular dental check-ups, removable partial dentures can offer a functional and attractive solution for partial tooth loss while preserving the health of the remaining natural teeth.
