PARTIAL DENTURES
A partial denture replaces either one lost tooth or a group of teeth on the upper or lower jaw and surrounding tissue. They attach to the remaining teeth with either metal clasps or attachments. Not only does a partial denture fill in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from changing position. The dentist may also recommend crowns on your natural teeth as they improve the fit of your partial dentures.
FULL DENTURES
Full dentures are a total replacement for either the upper or lower teeth, or both and surrounding tissue. Full dentures are removable, replacement teeth that are fitted into an acrylic base that is crafted to look like your gums. If any remaining teeth should be removed, gum tissue needs to undergo preliminary healing before the dentures are placed in the mouth. Dentures also help the facial and jaw muscles to work properly so that you can eat, speak and smile normally.
IMPLANT SUPPORTED DENTURES
As the name seems to imply, these are dentures which are anchored by dental implants. A dental implant is a permanent fixture that is anchored to the jawbone and can be used to replace any number of teeth. They’re comprised of the implant itself, a metal post (usually titanium), and a custom crown which looks just like a natural tooth.
Implant-supported dentures have a couple of different ways in which they can attach, but should be cared for and treated like traditional dentures.
