A denture is a detachable prosthesis used to replace lost teeth and surrounding tissue. There are two varieties of dentures available: full and partial. Complete dentures are used in cases where natural teeth are lost. Partial dentures are used when a patient still has some natural teeth. Contact Wichita Falls dentures to learn more about the topic and receive further guidance.

The types of dentures

  • Complete Dentures

There are two types of complete dentures: “conventional” and “immediate.” A traditional denture is prepared for insertion into the mouth eight to twelve weeks following the extraction of teeth and the start of the healing process of the gum tissue.

Immediate dentures, in contrast to traditional dentures, can be placed right away as the teeth are extracted because they are prefabricated. The wearer need not go without teeth over the healing process as a result. But over time, particularly in the healing phase after tooth extraction, bones and gums recede. Since they need more adjustments to fit correctly during the healing process, immediate dentures have this drawback over conventional dentures. As a result, they should only be used as a temporary fix until traditional dentures can be made.

  • Partial Dentures

A removable partial bridge or denture is typically made up of replacement teeth affixed to a base of plastic that is pink or gum-colored. The base and the denture are occasionally held in place in the mouth by a metal framework. When a few natural teeth are still present in the upper or lower jaw, partial dentures are utilized. With a fixed bridge, one or more teeth are replaced by affixing artificial teeth to crowns that are bound to the teeth on both sides of the gap. 

The “bridge” is subsequently fixed with cement. A partial denture keeps adjacent teeth from shifting position in addition to filling in the gaps left by missing teeth. Unlike clasps that fasten to nearby crowns, internal attachments on a precision partial denture allow it to be removed. This appliance has a more organic appearance.

Can You Use Alternatives of Dentures?

Indeed, cemented bridges supported by dental implants can do away with the need for a denture. Although they are typically more expensive, bridges and implants feel more like natural teeth. Dental implants are gradually substituting dentures. However, not every person is a good fit for implants. Dentures can also be supported by dental implants, which provide excellent stability. See your dentist if you need advice on implants.