Dental Dentures Thornhill
Dentures are removable artificial teeth designed to replace missing teeth. If you have lost some or all of your teeth due to an accident, illness, or poor oral health, your dentist or prosthodontist may recommend dentures as a suitable replacement option.
Types of Dentures: Complete and Partial Dentures
There are two main types of dentures: complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all natural teeth are missing, while partial dentures are recommended when some natural teeth are still present.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are used when all teeth in the upper or lower arch are missing. They are custom-made for each patient and are held in place by suction and/or a dental adhesive. Like partial dentures, they are removable for daily cleaning and maintenance.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used when only some teeth are missing. They are often recommended when remaining natural teeth are not suitable to support a dental bridge or when multiple teeth need to be replaced.
Both complete and partial dentures provide an effective solution for restoring function and appearance after tooth loss.
Construction of Complete and Partial Dentures
Complete dentures are designed to replace all missing teeth in an arch. They consist of an acrylic base that mimics gum tissue and may include acrylic or porcelain teeth. The base is custom-shaped to fit the contours of the jaw, providing stability during speaking, eating, and swallowing.
Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They feature a metal framework with artificial teeth positioned in the spaces of missing teeth. The framework includes clasps or attachments that secure the denture around existing teeth, improving stability and function.
The Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
An implant-supported denture is a removable prosthesis that is secured using dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, implant-supported dentures are anchored to the jawbone for improved stability. They are typically recommended for patients who have lost all teeth in an arch but still have sufficient bone structure to support implants.
Denture Cleaning and Maintenance
- Proper denture care is essential for maintaining oral health and extending the life of your prosthesis. To ensure proper hygiene, dentures should be cleaned daily. Follow these steps:
- Remove dentures and rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove food debris.
- Use a soft denture brush or toothbrush with mild soap or denture cleaner to gently clean all surfaces.
- Clean your gums and any remaining natural teeth while your dentures are removed.