What are Dentures?
A denture is a replacement for missing teeth and the surrounding tissue in the patient’s mouth. A denture is removable, so it can be taken in and out. There are 2 types of dentures:
- A partial denture is used when only some of the natural teeth remain. The partial denture replaces only the teeth which are missing.
- A complete denture is used when all of the patient’s natural teeth are missing.
A patient may need dentures because gum disease or tooth decay damaged their natural teeth, or have oral abnormalities that cannot be helped.
Benefits of dentures:
- Dentures improve self-esteem and confidence.
- Dentures improve overall esthetics and function.
- Dentures are not permanent but will last a long time, usually 5-10 years.
- Dentures can improve speech.
- Dentures will restore overall oral health.
- Dentures are relatively inexpensive.
Procedure:
This process will take several visits to Dr. Ellis’s office in order for your dentures to be created. During the first appointment, Dr. Ellis will make impressions of the tissues that will support your dentures. The impressions will then be sent to a dental laboratory. Once the model is prepared to fit the patient’s mouth, dentures will slowly be added to the models and inserted into the patient’s mold in order to ensure fit, proper bite and comfort. You’ll have to see Dr. Ellis several times before your denture is complete. Also, after a denture has been placed the denture may need to be adjusted.
