Partial vs. Full?
The first distinction to understand is that dentures can replace all or just some of your missing teeth.
- Partial dentures: These dentures stand in for the teeth you are missing wherever they are required. They are commonly equipped with a metal or plastic section that acts as a strong mounting point, which includes metal clips that grasp your surrounding teeth.
- Full dentures: These dentures replace all the teeth on your upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. To sit firmly in place, they typically incorporate a plastic base, which is made of acrylic resin. This base has a color similar to your gums to create a more natural look. By carefully molding the base to mirror the shape of your gums, your dentist can create an oral prosthetic that keeps up with you as you go about your busy day.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Your natural teeth have the advantage of being rooted deep within the jaw. In other words, they are anchored in place, preventing movement when you chew or speak.
Dentures depend on human innovation to work around that problem. With partial dentures, the clips do the job, while natural suction and adhesives handle the heavy lifting for complete dentures. However, those are not the only options.
Some complete dentures screw onto permanent implants — metal devices placed in your jawbone during surgery. Over time, your jawbone will fuse with the titanium in the implant, preventing slippage and bone damage.
Implant-supported dentures are known for being more stable than alternatives. They come in different styles, including ones that let you remove the teeth and gum sections for cleaning. Others are more permanent.
Find Dentures Made for Your Smile At Lerner & Lemongello
Are dentures right for you? Find out whether they might help — and pick the best type for your mouth — by talking to our experts at Lerner & Lemongello in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Book your appointment online or call 561-627-9000 to determine which type is best for you.