Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace missing teeth and tissue. When a person loses many or all of the teeth, dentures allow the patient to chew properly and speak normally.
Dentures also support a natural-looking smile and facial structure, preventing the sunken lower facial features that can result from loss of teeth and gum tissue.
Complete dentures replace all of the teeth in an arch – the upper (maxillary) arch and/or the lower (mandibular) arch. Creating your perfect set of dentures may require several appointments over a period of several weeks. Your dentist will take precise molds and measurements. After the dentures are fabricated, additional fittings and adjustments may be required to ensure proper fit, function and appearance. Your dentist will also provide guidance for optimal care and cleaning.
Removable partial dentures generally consist of replacement teeth that are attached to gum-coloured plastic bases. Depending on your case, your dentist will design a partial denture, custom to your mouth. A partial denture can have metal framework and clasps that connect to your teeth, or they can have other connectors that are more natural looking. In some cases, a removable partial denture is created to attach to your natural teeth with devices called, “Precision Attachments”. Precision attachments are generally more aesthetically pleasing than clasps.