Dentures are among the oldest and most reliable solutions in restorative dentistry. Despite the constant emergence of innovative dental techniques, more than half of people aged between 65 and 74 still use dentures in the United States.
If you’re missing several teeth, dentures offer a simple, durable way to restore both the appearance and function of your mouth. At Dentistry at Kennestone, we specialize in creating natural-looking dentures that allow you to smile and speak with pride.
What Are Dentures?
A denture is an oral appliance that is inserted in the mouth to replace missing natural teeth, while providing support for the cheeks and lips. Most dentures are made of acrylic and can be fabricated in two different ways.
- A conventional denture is made after all teeth have been extracted and the tissues (gums) have healed.
- An immediate denture is fabricated and inserted immediately after the teeth are extracted, and the tissues are allowed to heal under the denture.
The teeth on a denture are made from plastic, porcelain, or a combination of both. Upper dentures include a flesh-colored acrylic base that covers the roof of your mouth, while lower dentures are horseshoe-shaped to leave space for your tongue.
Dentures can also be designed to fit over endodontically treated teeth or attached to dental implants for a more secure and stable fit.
What Are Partial Dentures?
If you’re missing two or more teeth but not an entire arch, partial dentures may be the right option for you. These appliances restore both the function of your bite and the natural look of your smile—all while allowing you to keep your remaining teeth.
Partial dentures can be made entirely of acrylic or partially of a metal and acrylic mixture. We customize the design to fit your specific needs, ensuring that your partial denture is comfortable and easy to care for.
You can also choose between attached or removable options, depending on what works best for you.
What Are Implant Retained Dentures?
While most patients experience no problems eating and speaking with an upper denture, it’s common for some to struggle with these tasks when the appliance is designed for their lower arch.
Implant-supported replacement options may be recommended when you’re missing all your lower teeth. Implant retained dentures use dental implants to attach directly to your jawbone, unlike traditional dentures. Consequently, they provide greater stability when speaking and chewing.
Long-Time Denture Care
Dentures will wear over time and need to be replaced or relined to keep the jaw alignment normal. As we age and the bone and gum ridges recede or shrink due to tooth extraction, the denture alignment will slowly change, becoming uncomfortable and even causing sores.
When this happens, it’s an indicator that you may need a denture reline. During this procedure, we will replace the plastic on the denture's interior surface with a new one molded to the contours of your mouth, crafting a replacement with an accurate fit.
Moreover, regular dental examinations are still important for the denture wearer so that the oral tissues can be checked for disease or change.
Get Comfortable and Durable Dentures
Dentures remain one of the most accessible and effective solutions for extensive tooth loss. Modern advancements, like implant-supported dentures, have improved their stability and functionality, making them a dependable option for restoring your smile.
If you’re ready to explore comfortable, natural-looking denture options crafted by a skilled and compassionate team, Dentistry at Kennestone is here to help. Contact us today to get started on your journey to a healthier, more confident smile!
