A denture is a removable replacement for
missing teeth and adjacent tissues. It is made of acrylic resin,
sometimes in combination with various metals. Complete dentures replace
all the teeth, while a partial denture fills in the spaces created by
missing teeth and prevents other teeth from changing position. Complete
dentures are either "conventional" or "immediate." A conventional
denture is placed in the mouth about a month after all the teeth are
removed to allow for proper healing, whereas an immediate denture is
placed as soon as the teeth are removed.
Who needs a
denture?
Candidates for complete dentures have lost most or all of their teeth. A
partial denture is suitable for those who have some natural teeth
remaining. A denture improves chewing ability and speech, and provides
support for facial muscles. It will greatly enhance the facial
appearance and smile.
What happens when you get a denture?
A dentist can make a full conventional denture when all teeth have been
lost or all extraction sites have healed (up to eight weeks or longer.)
The denture process takes about one month and five appointments: the
initial diagnosis is made; an impression and a wax bite are made to
determine vertical dimensions and proper jaw position; a "try-in" is
placed to assure proper color, shape and fit; and the patient's final
denture is placed, following any minor adjustments. New denture wearers
need time to get accustomed to their new "teeth" because even the best
fitting dentures will feel awkward at first. While most patients can
begin to speak normally within a few hours, many patients report
discomfort with eating for several days to a few weeks. To get
accustomed to chewing with a new denture, start with soft, easy-to-chew
foods. In addition, denture wearers often notice a slight change in
facial appearance, increased salivary flow, or minor speech difficulty.
