What Is a Denture?

Dentures are custom made removable prosthesis that replace some (partial denture) or all (full denture) missing teeth. They are natural looking prosthetic appliances that can be taken out and put back into your mouth, resting on one’s gums and bone for support. Dentures are part of the many cosmetic dentistry services we offer.

Full Dentures

What Type of Full Dentures Are There?

There several types of dentures including: Conventional full dentures, immediate full dentures, overdentures and partial dentures.

  • Conventional Full Denture – A custom-made removable appliance fabricated for the edentulous (toothless) upper and/or lower arches of your mouth.
  • Immediate Full Denture – A custom-made removable appliance fabricated to be inserted immediately after all teeth are removed. Usually with immediate full dentures, adjustments will be needed as the tissues from the extraction sites heal.
  • Overdenture – A custom-made removable/fixed appliance to replace all missing teeth on an arch that can be placed over retained roots or dental implants. This type of denture is far more stable and comfortable than conventional removable dentures.
Full Denture image
Full Denture
Overdenture image
Overdenture

Are They Better Than Implants?

Every individual and situation is different. In general, dental implants are a superior choice in comparison to a full or a removable partial denture. However, there are pros and cons to both. Below is a comparison of two. Please consult with your dentist to see which is right for you.

Dentures vs. Dental Implants

Dentures

  • Can feel unnatural
  • Can be loose and move around where adhesives may be needed
  • Chewing may be restricted and food may need to be cut
  • More affordable
  • Bone is decreased over time
  • May need to be remade or relined overtime
  • Easily removed for cleaning, but will need to be cleaned regularly
  • Minimal to No Surgery
  • No minimal bone requirement

Dental Implants

  • Function and feel like natural teeth
  • Highly stable and securely attaches to the jaw
  • Normal chewing is promoted
  • An investment that can last a lifetime
  • Helps preserves remaining bone
  • Longer lasting solution
  • Will need dental professional for periodic cleanings
  • Surgery will be needed
  • Healthy bone needed for implant placement

Partial Dentures

What Is a Partial Denture? What Types of Full Dentures Are There?

A partial denture is a custom-made removable appliance to replace one or more missing teeth. The replacement teeth are attached to a gum colored acrylic base which can be held by a metal framework. There are three main types of partial dentures: with metal framework, flexible base, or flippers.

Partial Denture with Metal Framework Strong, base is made out of metal, and clasps may be visible when you smile.

Partial Dentures image
Valplast (flexible) partial denture image

Valplast (Flexible) Partial Denture – Lightweight, comfortable and flexible. It is not as strong as metal partials, and if another tooth is lost – it cannot be added.

Flipper (interim) partial denture Temporary one or two teeth partial that is easily breakable and meant for aesthetics not function. It is an interim solution while waiting to get a partial or an implant.

Flipper (interim) partial denture image

Schedule Your Cosmetic Dentistry Appointment with Clear Dental Studio Today!

If you live in Broomfield, CO, & surrounding areas and are in need of a dental evaluation, cleaning, assessment or any other dental services, turn to Clear Dental Studio. Dr. Martha Ha and her team of dental specialists are known for performing exceptional dental work for the residents of Broomfield and beyond and can do the same for you! Whether you need cosmetic, restorative, preventive, or surgery-oriented dental services, the choice is Clear. Call us today or book online to schedule an appointment at our Broomfield office.

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