What are dentures?
Dentures replace several or all missing teeth with a removable, custom-made appliance. A well-planned denture can support your appearance, speech, and ability to eat while giving your smile a complete, natural-looking result.
A full denture replaces all teeth in the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. A partial denture replaces several missing teeth while fitting around remaining natural teeth. Partials may use a metal or flexible framework, clasps, or other attachments depending on the design.
Other options include immediate dentures placed around the time teeth are removed, overdentures supported by remaining prepared teeth, and dentures that receive additional support from dental implants. The most appropriate design depends on your remaining teeth, gums, bone, health, goals, and budget.
When might it be recommended?
- Multiple teeth are missing and chewing or speaking has become difficult.
- Remaining teeth cannot predictably support a fixed bridge or are planned for removal.
- You want a removable tooth-replacement option.
- An existing denture is loose, worn, damaged, uncomfortable, or no longer supports your bite properly.
