To replace a few teeth or complete dentures, removable dentures are often suggested to patients. There are several options for full or partial dentures, so here’s a brief explanation of each with its advantages and disadvantages to find out which would suit you best.

Conventional dentures

Within the category of removable dentures, we find conventional or complete dentures. These replace all the patient’s upper and/or lower teeth. They are supported by the gums and held in place by suction. These prostheses can be removed at any time when the patient wishes, and require no surgical intervention apart from tooth extraction if required.

Partial dentures

Partial dentures are used when a patient still has the majority of teeth in the mouth. They are used to partially replace the dentition. The prosthesis consists of a metal framework covered with pink acrylic. The metal portion is supported by the teeth in the mouth, thus holding the prosthesis in place. These dentures can also be removed if required. One advantage of partial dentures is that they act as a space maintainer, preventing the teeth in the mouth from shifting over time.

Implant-supported prostheses, fixed or removable

Full and partial dentures can be supported by dental implants. These implants are small titanium abutments surgically placed in the jawbone. The prosthesis is then attached, either permanently or in a removable manner, to the implants using a connector. This type of prosthesis offers greater comfort and is more stable than conventional prostheses. Because they are fitted to implants, they enable optimal chewing and pronunciation, and help preserve the underlying bone. However, candidates for dental implants must have sufficient bone density to support the implant abutments.14

Immediate prostheses

After tooth extraction, the gums must be given time to heal before final dentures are placed. To replace teeth immediately after extraction, it is possible to place an immediate prosthesis. With an immediate denture, the dentist takes measurements of your smile before extracting the teeth. The prosthesis is made in advance and placed immediately after surgery, which means you’ll never be without teeth. Final, or conventional, dentures can be placed when the gums have completely healed, usually a few months later.

There are several types of dentures to suit different needs, all of which help patients regain a beautiful smile and improved chewing function. To find out which one is right for you, do not hesitate to discuss it with your dentist!