A conventional denture is made after all teeth have been extracted and the soft tissues have healed. An interim denture is worn immediately after the teeth are extracted, this allows the soft tissues to heal prior to making your final denture. This treatment allows for the soft tissues and underlying structures to completely heal prior to getting your final denture, which allows the final denture to look natural and function best, so you can enjoy the foods you love.

An upper complete denture covers the palate (the roof of the mouth) and a lower complete denture is shaped like a horseshoe to leave room for the tongue. A complete denture(s) can be attached to dental implants allowing for a more secure fit.

Differences Between Cosmetic and Traditional Dentures

While all dentures serve to replace missing teeth and enhance your smile, two types of dentures are available — cosmetic and conventional dentures — and there are some key differences between the two. Understanding the differences between them can help you decide which type is best for you.

Traditional Dentures

Our traditional dentures are usually made from materials, such as acrylic, porcelain or metal, and are seated over the gum tissue after extensive tooth loss or extraction. These can come as complete dentures, to replace a full set of teeth, or be made as partial dentures, to replace individual missing teeth. Both complete and partial dentures can be worn on the upper or lower jaws.

Traditional dentures are designed with function as the first priority and may not perfectly mimic the look of your teeth. Replacing teeth with complete or partial dentures can be a great aid in mastication, giving you the confidence and ability to eat a wide range of foods.

Partial dentures are often supported by a metal framework, or bridge, that attaches to natural teeth, crowns, bridges, or implant restorations. They’re sturdy and can help you function as if you never lost your teeth.

Cosmetic Dentures

On the other hand, cosmetic dentures have all the practical applications of traditional dentures, but as the name suggests, they place more emphasis on aesthetics. These dentures are better designed to mimic the look and contour of your natural teeth, giving a completely natural look.

Additionally, cosmetic dentures are usually made from similar materials as traditional dentures, but these materials can be customized with more realistic colors and textures to produce a more natural-looking option for your dentures. Furthermore, this material offers lots of customizability as far as color and texture, leading to a lot more natural-looking options for your dentures.

Signs You May Need Dentures

Replacing missing or hopeless teeth is important and can be vital to your health. It is important to understand when dentures could be a benefit for you. Here are some common signs that may indicate you need dentures:

• You have gaps in your teeth that keep shifting.
• You have chronic toothaches.
• You have swollen or red gums that may bleed.
• You find it difficult to eat certain foods.
• You have multiple missing teeth.

If any of these signs apply to you, it could be a simple fix. A set of dentures may be just what you need to restore your health and confidence.

If you are interested in treatment option, please contact our office for an appointment.