If you have missing teeth — whether some of your natural teeth remain, or all natural teeth are missing — dentures are a cosmetic dentistry procedure that can remedy missing teeth, and help to restore your smile and improve your facial structure. There are two main types of dentures available—complete dentures, which include conventional or immediate dentures, and partial dentures.

Complete dentures are used when all of your teeth are missing, while partial dentures are often used when natural teeth remain. If you’re considering dentures, here is a quick look at both options.

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures can be either conventional or immediate.

A conventional denture is ready for placement 8-12 weeks after a patient’s teeth have been removed, and the gum tissue has healed.

Immediate dentures can be positioned as soon as teeth are removed so a patient does not have to be without teeth during the healing period.

The disadvantage of immediate dentures is that they often require multiple adjustments to fit properly as bones and gums shrink following tooth removal. Immediate dentures are usually considered a temporary solution until conventional dentures can be applied.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures, also referred to as bridges, consist of replacement teeth attached to a removable, gum-colored plastic base connected by metal framework to hold the denture in place. Partial dentures are used when one or more natural teeth remain in the jaw, and can help prevent existing teeth from shifting position.

Eating and Speaking With Dentures

Due to modern dental technology, today’s dentures have come a long way from previous dentures that have been known to click or fall out when speaking or eating. While dentures may have an adjustment period to speaking and eating as any dental procedure, today’s dentures are solid mouth placements that have a much more reliable performance.

Alternatives to Dentures

Dental implants are the leading alternative to dentures, as they can support cemented bridges, eliminating the need for dentures. However, the cost of dental implants is greater than dentures, and not everyone is a candidate for implants.

If you’re considering dentures—whether complete dentures or partial—contact our Irvine Cosmetic Dentistry office today at 949-955-3366 for more information. Dr. Hawary and his professional staff of leading dental technicians will perform a thorough evaluation, and determine if dentures are the best cosmetic dental procedure for you. We can answer any questions you may have about dentures, and find the best dental solution to meet your needs.