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Treatments > Restorative treatments > Dentures
A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile.
There are two types of dentures - complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.
A complete denture may be either "conventional" or "immediate". A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking 6 to 8 weeks. During this time the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made.
Dentures are very durable appliances but may have to be remade, repaired or adjusted due to normal wear.
The process of getting dentures requires several appointments. Highly accurate impressions (moulds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture. The "try-in" appointment allows the patient to check that they are entirely happy with the shape, colour, and fit of the denture before it is completed. At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.
It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.
You will be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.
Dentures can be made significantly more comfortable and retentive by attaching them to implants. Click here for more information on denture stabilization.
