If you or a family member are considering getting a new set of dentures, you should know that there are many different types of dentures available. We’ve compiled this list of modern denture alternatives to help decide which type would be best for you.
- Traditional full set of dentures – A full set of dentures is designed to replace all of the patient’s teeth, and they consist of a top and a bottom plate. Traditional dentures sit on top of the patient’s gums, as opposed to other types of appliances that are anchored to a patient’s existing natural teeth. Most people can be fitted with traditional dentures within 8 to 12 weeks after having their teeth extracted.
- Immediate full set of dentures – This type of denture is also a full set, consisting of both a top and a bottom plate. But the difference with immediate dentures is that they are fitted onto the patient’s gums immediately after his/her teeth are extracted. The advantage is that the patient doesn’t have to live without teeth for 8 to 12 weeks after extraction. But you should note that you will have to return to your dentist periodically so the dentures can be relined since the shape of your gums changes as the tissue heals.
- Implant-supported dentures – One increasingly popular style of modern dentures are those that are supported by dental implants. An implant consists of a metal artificial tooth root that is implanted into the patient’s jawbone. After a period of time, the metal fuses with the bone, and an artificial tooth (typically a porcelain crown) is affixed on top of the implant. The patient can then be fitted with a set of dentures that is securely supported and kept in place by the implants. Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures are not removable by the patient.
- Snap-in dentures – Similar to implant-supported dentures, snap-in dentures are secured in place by dental implants. The main difference is that these dentures are removable by the patient.
- Partial dentures – If you are missing just a few teeth, a partial denture might be a good way to replace those teeth. Consisting of artificial teeth mounted onto a gum-colored base and secured by metal brackets, a partial is convenient because it can be removed by the patient. It’s important to find a suitable replacement for missing teeth – whether it’s a partial denture or some other appliance, such as a dental bridge – because your other teeth will move to fill in the gap left behind by your missing teeth. When that happens, it can throw your bite off and can even result to damage to the existing teeth. Many patients find that partials work well to replace a few missing teeth.
For more information about modern denture options, talk to your dentist. He or she can tell you more and help you decide which is the best choice for you.
