Removable Dentures

Complete (Conventional), Immediate, Partial

A denture is a removable dental prosthesis used to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are designed and made to closely resemble your natural teeth prior to loss, giving you the beautiful vibrant smile that you once had.

There are 2 distinctly different types of dentures – complete versus partial dentures. Complete dentures are made when all natural teeth are missing, while partial dentures fill spaces when some natural teeth remain. Partial dentures not only fill spaces, but they also help to prevent remaining natural teeth from shifting which can subsequently create malocclusion.

Complete dentures can be made as either “conventional” or “immediate.” Conventional dentures are made after all teeth have been removed and the bone and gum tissue has fully healed leaving a healthy residual ridge once occupied by your natural teeth. This time period of healing varies from patient to patient but can sometimes take upwards of 6-12 months. Conventional dentures can also be made for patients who present with an existing denture that needs replacement or for those patients who have been edentulous (missing all teeth) for quite some time.

When a patient has the need for all remaining natural teeth to be removed, an immediate denture can be made in advance of the surgical procedure and immediately placed at the completion of treatment. This option prevents the patient from having to be completely without teeth during the time needed to fully and adequately heal. Frequent adjustments of an immediate denture will be needed, as the bone and gum tissue will continue to shrink and remodel. At the completion of healing, a conventional denture can then confidently be made by your Dentist to provide you with a well fitting prosthesis that provides better form and function.

The process of getting dentures, whether complete or partial, requires a series of appointments over the course of several weeks. To ensure a natural and comfortable fit, very precise and accurate records need to be gathered at a series of appointments, all for different purposes, to create your custom dentures. At the end of the process, several try-in appointments may be needed to ensure proper shape, color and fit for overall patient satisfaction.

It is very normal to experience increased salivary flow, soreness and speech and chewing difficulty initially, however, this will subside as you and your tissues adapt to your new dentures. A normal part of the process, several appointments may be needed to adjust your dentures for optimal fit, comfort and function.

You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, a proper diet and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new Removable Dentures.

If you have any questions or concerns about Removable Dentures, please don't hesitate to discuss them with your Dentist in the office or call Dental Arts of Boynton Beach at (561) 767-9595.