Choosing the right denture can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Dentures come in different types to meet specific needs. Whether you’re missing a few teeth or need a full replacement, understanding your options will help you make the best choice.
Types of Dentures
Full Dentures
Full dentures replace all teeth in your upper or lower jaw. They rest on your gums and suction or adhesive hold them in place. If you’ve lost all your teeth, full dentures restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. They also support your facial muscles to prevent the sunken look that can happen when teeth are missing.
Modern full dentures fit snuggly, but they may need adjustments over time. Full dentures might be right for you as a removable option that restores your smile and function.
Partial Dentures
If you still have some natural teeth, partial dentures could be a good option. These dentures fill in the gaps left by missing teeth and attach to your existing teeth with metal clasps or precision attachments.
Partial dentures help improve chewing and speech while keeping your remaining teeth from shifting out of place. They are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, so they blend in well. Partial dentures are a great fit for those who want a temporary and non-surgical way to replace missing teeth.
Implant-Supported Dentures
For a more secure and natural-feeling option, implant-supported dentures could be the best choice. Instead of resting on the gums, these dentures snap onto dental implants placed in your jawbone. This provides the extra stability you’re looking for. You won’t have to think about them slipping and making it harder to chew tough foods.
Implants also help prevent bone loss because they fuse with the bone. However, the process takes time since the implants need to heal before attaching the dentures. If you have enough jawbone and want a long-lasting, stable option, implant-supported dentures could be worth considering.
How to Choose the Right Denture
When deciding on dentures, consider the following factors:
- Your Budget: Traditional dentures are usually more affordable than implant-supported ones.
- Your Lifestyle: If you’re active and want more stability, implants may be the better option.
- The Comfort You Want: Ill-fitting dentures can cause soreness, so a proper fit is key.
- Your Oral Health: If you have bone loss or gum issues, some options may work better than others.
Your dentist will help you weigh these factors and recommend the best type of denture for your needs.
Adjusting to New Dentures
Getting used to dentures takes time. In the beginning, they may feel awkward or bulky, and you might have trouble eating or speaking. Here are some tips to help with the adjustment:
- Start with soft foods and chew slowly.
- Practice speaking by reading out loud.
- Wear your dentures as directed to get used to them.
- Use denture adhesive if you need extra stability.
- Avoid sticky or hard foods that could damage your dentures.
- Schedule regular check-ups so your dentist can make adjustments if needed.
With patience and practice, wearing dentures will start to feel natural.
At Complete Dentistry for All Ages, we provide high-quality denture options in Lexington, KY. If you’re missing teeth, replacing them as soon as possible can help prevent bone loss and other issues. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and find the right denture for you!