Alternatives to Dentures

Post by: Gerarda on 30 Jan 2020

Today´s blog, is part 5 of a 6-part series.

What are the alternatives to dentures?
One alternative is an implant supported denture which allows you to have a permanently fixed denture. This eliminates one of the concerns most people have about conventional full dentures, that they will lose the denture when eating or while out in public. Prior to the introduction of osseointegrated implants (when the implant has fully healed into the bone) a conventional complete removable denture was the only treatment option available for completely edentulous patients. A denture supported on implants or a bridge are alternatives.

An implant-supported denture uses between 4-6 implants in a jaw. The denture uses the strength of the dental implants to support and retain a full set of false teeth. The denture is fixed permanently in place and the pressure from eating is transmitted to the implants rather than the gums, therefore, you have the safety and security that it will not accidentally come out as your dentist is the only one who can take it out.

Another alternative to a denture is a bridge. A bridge replaces missing teeth by placing two or more specially fitted crowns on either side of the space formed by your missing tooth or teeth. A false tooth or pontic is attached to fill in the space of the missing tooth or teeth. As bridges are cemented in place, they are considered a “fixed or permanent denture.”

What are the benefits of implants?
The obvious benefit of having an implant-supported denture is the security one feels that it will not come out unexpectedly. The denture is anchored firmly in place so is stable in the mouth. There is no discomfort from friction with the gum and they are more hygienic as there is less surface contact with the gums. They also allow you to eat normally and taste your food as there is no acrylic blocking your taste buds.

 

Dentures

Post by: Gerarda on 21 Oct 2019

This 6-part series will explore dentures, from what dentures are to what is the alternative to them. Today´s blog will focus on what they are and what types of dentures are available.

Dentures are referred to as a plate or a dental appliance. They are associated with visiting your grandparents and seeing them sitting in a glass by their bedside. Thankfully dentistry has advanced.

There are many types of dentures available and depending on your oral circumstances your dentist, in consultation with you, will decide which denture best suits your needs. Along with many types of dentures there are also many kinds of material used to make them. Whichever type of denture you ultimately receive, it is important to replace your missing teeth as they are an essential component to retaining the shape of your face. Without the support of your teeth the mouth collapses and the lower portion of the face shrinks. A denture suddenly fills out the face as it provides your jaw the height to bring your face back to its normal position.

What are dentures?
Dentures are an appliance used if a patient is missing one, some or all of their teeth. They are usually made of an acrylic base that is colored to make them look like natural gums along with a set of acrylic or porcelain teeth. Metals such as steel and chrome can also be used in the base of dentures, particularly in the upper jaw, but if you want something that is flexible, the material Valplast is used. It is a translucent resin that blends with natural gum color.

Dentures can be taken out of your mouth and put back in. They are commonly referred to as a plate and if you are a first-time wearer it can take some getting used to. While they will not feel like your original teeth, with advancements in dentistry they have come to look perfectly natural and feel very comfortable.

What types of dentures are available?
There are many different types of dentures, conventional full denture, immediate full denture, partial denture, denture on implants and flexible dentures to name just a few. Depending on a number of factors there is a whole range available.

Those factors include:

• The number of missing teeth
• The materials being used
• If the denture will be fixed or removable
• If the denture will be supported by the gum or by implants

Dentures made from acrylic while they are strong, are less durable than some of the alternatives. They can break easily if dropped or if too much pressure is applied while biting. Acrylic is the most affordable type of denture as the material is easier to work with and is less expensive.

Depending on the type of denture you have, that level of comfort can vary. The flexible denture uses soft material which is gentler on the gums, doesn´t have the rigidity of acrylic and is less bulky. This means they are more comfortable to wear and cause fewer difficulties with speech.

Dentures with a metal framework are stronger and more durable than acrylic. Because it is metal, the denture can be made thinner than acrylic, so are comfortable and lightweight.

Thankfully, today one is “spoiled for choice” when it comes to choosing the best denture for you. No longer do you have to see them sitting in a glass by your bedside as there are options.

Next time this blog will explore full dentures and immediate dentures.