Dentures

Dr. Jason is happy to consult with denture wearers about the best option for their needs, as there are a number of variations, each with specific indications.

Complete/Full Dentures

Complete or full dentures are worn by patients who are missing all teeth in an arch. This option is generally the least costly option for replacing a full arch of missing teeth. It is important to understand that full dentures should be thought of as a replacement for no teeth and not as a substitute for existing teeth. They can vastly improve the aesthetics of one’s smile in a rapid manner, but chewing is often compromised because the plastic teeth on the dentures will never be as strong as real teeth. Furthermore, it is important to understand that taste and thermal sensation may be reduced due to coverage of the palate and gums by the full denture. Nevertheless, full dentures are a great and affordable option to restore a beautiful smile for those who are operating on a tight budget and missing a full set of teeth.

This image reveals a set of full upper and lower dentures. These prostheses help patients who are fully edentulous and without teeth restore their beautiful smile!

Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures serve as replacement for missing teeth like other dentures but they are “partial” because they fit around remaining natural teeth. They require healthy, natural teeth to serve as abutments so the clasps from the partial can hook onto them for retention and stability. The benefits and disadvantages of partial dentures are mostly similar to those of full dentures, though partials have the added advantage of increased stability and retention.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Lastly, dentures can also be supported by dental implants for added comfort and stability. Denture wearers who suffer from severe bone loss may have a hard time keeping their dentures stable without them falling down and moving around. Several implants can be placed in a given arch to serve as anchors, and your existing denture can be modified to hook onto these implants for greater retention and stability.

Whatever method you choose for replacing missing teeth, we want the outcome to feel comfortable and look natural.