Dentures can restore your smile by filling in the gaps caused by tooth loss. They also help restore tooth functioning so you can bite and chew different foods more easily. Two main types of dentures include partial and full. Dr. Mariano Polack and Dr. Maggie Olano, the knowledgeable dentists at Dental Design in Gainesville, VA, can recommend the dentures best suited for your individual needs.
The Benefits of Dentures
Dentures offer several benefits. Not only do they replace missing teeth, but they can also help reduce many of the unwanted side effects associated with tooth loss, such as changes in speech, facial drooping or sagging, and excess strain on the remaining natural teeth. Dentures have the potential to help your smile in several ways, including:
- Replacing missing teeth
- Filling in the gaps caused by tooth loss
- Restoring biting and chewing functions
- Reducing facial sagging and drooping
- Eliminating excess strain on teeth
- Improving speech
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are the right choice when you still have some of your natural teeth and just need to fill in the gaps where teeth are missing. Partial dentures fit around your existing teeth so your smile will be composed of both natural teeth and replacement ones.
The two types of partial dentures are known as transitional and removable. Transitional partial dentures are less expensive and are made from a plastic material. This type of denture is typically worn temporarily following an extraction procedure. Once the gums are healed from the extraction, the transitional denture can be replaced with a more permanent option.
Removable partial dentures are made of metal and acrylic and cost a bit more than transitional partials, but are much lighter and provide a better fit. This type of denture is a more affordable alternative to dental implants or fixed bridgework.
Full Dentures
We offer three types of full dentures at our office in Gainesville, VA. Immediate full dentures serve a similar purpose as transitional partials and are worn temporarily following a tooth extraction, which allows patients to still enjoy a full smile while waiting for their gums to heal. Conventional full dentures can be worn once the gums have healed. These dentures are custom made for the best possible fit. Additionally, conventional full dentures gradually conform to the mouth for a near-perfect fit.
The third type of full denture that is available is an implant-supported overdenture. This type of denture is held securely in place with several dental implants, which are placed below the gum line in the jaw bone. Implant-supported overdentures provide an ideal balance of functionality, comfort, and value.
Several types of dentures are available to help you restore your smile, as well as improve tooth functioning. Dr. Polack or Dr. Olano can determine if you need partial or full dentures. Schedule a consolation to learn more about the process of getting dentures by calling Dental Design in Gainesville, VA, at (703) 753-8753.