About Dentures
Your local Southern Downs denture clinic
Dentures are a removable appliance used to replace teeth and support surrounding tissue. There are several different types of dentures serving different purposes and catering to specific needs.
Full Dentures
Full or complete dentures are prosthetic devices designed to replace all of the natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, or both. Upper dentures cover the palate or roof of your mouth, while lower dentures are horseshoe shaped to accommodate the tongue. Full dentures rely on the natural contours of the gums and the underlying bony ridge for support and stability. Full dentures restore the ability to chew, speak properly and support facial muscles for a more natural facial appearance.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used when only some natural teeth are missing. Unlike full dentures, which replace all teeth, partials are designed to fill gaps in the dental arch where some natural teeth are missing. There are two different types of partial dentures.
Acrylic Partial
The main framework of these dentures is acrylic, the same material used for full dentures. Wire clasps are adapted to your remaining teeth to provide support to the denture. Acrylic dentures are indicated if there may be more extractions in your future. Acrylic dentures can easily be added to if other teeth are lost.
Chrome Partial
The main framework of these dentures is cobalt-chrome alloy. This metal is strong, durable, and lightweight, making it well-suited for dental prosthetics. The metal framework is custom-fabricated to fit the contours of the patient's mouth and to support the artificial teeth. These partials also have clasps but they are part of the main framework which can help in retaining the denture securely.
Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures are a type of dental prosthetic that is inserted immediately after the extraction of remaining natural teeth. This allows patients to have a set of replacement teeth without experiencing a period of complete toothlessness. Immediate dentures are made before the extraction of the natural teeth and are inserted immediately following the surgical extraction. Once teeth are removed the gums and underlying bone undergo a period of healing in which the mouth changes. During this time we can help keep you comfortable until a point where the mouth has healed and a permanent reline can be completed improving the fit of the dentures.
Implant Retained Dentures
Implant-retained dentures, also known as implant-supported dentures, are a type of dental prosthesis that combines dentures with dental implants for increased stability, support, and functionality. Unlike traditional dentures that rely solely on suction, adhesive, or clasps for retention, implant-retained dentures are secured in the mouth using dental implants anchored in the jawbone. As dental prosthetists we cannot place implants, but can construct the dentures that attach to the implants. This may involve creating a new denture or modifying an existing one. The denture is designed to snap onto the implants securely, creating a stable and comfortable fit.