If you are suffering from a loss of teeth and wondering whether you should consider getting dentures (“false teeth”), you are not alone. Or at least identifying whether they’re the ones for you. Perhaps a dentist brought up implant-supported dentures. Perhaps a friend talked to you about flexible dentures, and you are wondering what that means.
There are more choices than most people realize. It isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are different kinds of dentures, and, depending on your oral health, lifestyle and budget, some will be a better fit than others. Let’s walk through them.
Traditional Full Dentures
This is likely the image that comes into most people’s minds when they think of the word “dentures.” These are also referred to as complete dentures and are what you would have made if you were getting all of your teeth replaced in just the top or bottom (or both) rows of your teeth.
They are placed directly on the gums and are held in place by suction (and in some cases, an adhesive). These are removable dentures, so you will be taking them out at night or to clean them.
They are typically made from acrylic and can be shaped to make you have a natural-looking smile, especially when constructed by an experienced technician.
But one thing to keep in mind, since they don’t anchor to anything either, they can sometimes drift. Eating may require a period of adjustment. And yet, traditional dentures remain a solid choice for plenty of people.
Partial Dentures
When you still have remaining natural teeth, partial dentures can be a smart solution. They’re made to fill in the gaps left by missing teeth, and they clip or anchor onto your remaining teeth.
You can always get flexible partial dentures, which are a little softer, a little bendier, and tend to be more comfortable. Or, if you prefer, you may opt for the traditional removable denture, which is firmer.
Partial dentures of some sort can be a wonderful bridge, literally and figuratively, to something more permanent if you move in that direction.” Others use them long-term. Again, it varies from person to person.
Immediate Dentures
Losing teeth, whether due to decay or extraction, is never fun. And sometimes, you just don’t want to walk around with gaps while healing. That’s where immediate dentures come in.
They are created beforehand and inserted on the same day your teeth are extracted. You go home with new teeth in place. It’s convenient. So you skip that uncomfortable waiting game.
But there’s a catch. As your gums recover and shrink, the dentures may no longer fit well. You could use some alterations, or maybe even a whole new kit. So they’re often looked at as a temporary denture until your mouth is prepared for custom dentures.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Now we’re into implant dentures, and they are a completely different tier of what’s out there in modern day solutions. So they’re not just sitting out on your gums, they’re also rooted in there via dental implants, which are essentially artificial tooth roots surgically inserted into your jawbone.
These dentures may be snap in dentures(sometimes termed snap on dentures) that you take out for cleaning. Or they can be fixed dentures, which remain in your mouth and clean like natural teeth.
Implant dentures are great for individuals who seek more stability and lasting comfort. There’s less slippage, better chewing strength, and they tend to feel more like your own teeth to those around you. The look, the feel, it’s as close to having real teeth back again.
Dentures do cost more when implants are used, of course. Then there’s surgery, healing time, and a bit of a process. But if you’re a candidate and can swing it, the results can be life-altering.
Flexible Dentures
We touched on these for a moment, but let’s dive a little deeper. Flexible dentures are a newer, lighter-weight material type of removable denture primarily used for partial dentures.
They’re gentler on sensitive gums and don’t have any metal clasps. That makes them perfect for those with allergies or who think standard acrylic feels scratchy. They also tend to blend in better with your natural gum color, so they look better when a smile is on display.
The downside? They’re not always repairable. And they can degrade faster than those traditional materials. Yet for many people, they’re worth it just for the comfort.
Hybrid Dentures
This one is a hybrid between implant supported dentures and permanent dentures. Hybrid dentures, which are anchored with implants, aren’t designed to come out at home. You can have them removed only by your dentist, if necessary.
They’re also frequently used if you’ve lost all of your teeth and want something that feels as real as possible. And because they’re fixed, they’re also shockingly stable. No slipping. No clicky noises when you chew. And they generally last longer than economy dentures or less expensive alternatives.
Sure, they come with a higher price tag, and not everyone is a candidate. You need enough bone structure to support the implants.
Temporary Dentures (A Quick Fix)
And sometimes you simply want a temporary fix to hold you over until a more lasting solution arrives, such as dental implants or personalized dentures.
Temporary dentures do just that. They’re not designed to be eternal, and they’re not going to be as comfortable or fit as well. But they serve a purpose.
They help you speak, eat, and smile while you’re in between steps. Some people only wear them for weeks. Others might use them for several months, depending on healing times and treatment plans.
Economy Dentures Vs. Custom Dentures
Can we just discuss expectations for a second here? If you opt for the economy dentures, you’re probably going to have a fast, inexpensive fix, but it might not fit perfectly. You may notice you’re using denture adhesive more frequently. You may give up some comfort or looks.
Custom dentures are, as the name implies, personalized to your unique bite, jaw shape, and smile. They are more time-consuming and expensive to prepare, but they fit better, are more comfortable, and have a more natural appearance.
The difference becomes clear the longer you wear them.
What Is The Right Denture For You?
Here’s the catch: there is no single solution. Some people are excellent candidates for Implant Dentures. Others dislike the surgery and the expense, and are perfectly content with the services offered by traditional dentures. If you still have some teeth left, perhaps a flexible partial denture or snap-on dentures could be the solution for you.
Your dentist and your budget are here to help make the choice. But it helps to go into the conversation with a little understanding of what’s out there, and what kinds of questions to ask.
In the end, we’re all working toward the same thing: to make up for those missing teeth, to make it easier for you to chew and function, and to help you feel good about your smile again. Whether that’s complete dentures, implant-supported dentures, or a temporary denture until you decide, you can find a denture solution that fits you somewhere.
And, frankly, you might have to test-drive one before you realize you’d rather own another. That’s part of the process. It’s not always linear. Not always perfect.
But with a little patience and the right support, it is entirely possible to find something that feels right for your mouth, your life, and your smile.
Ready To Restore Your Smile?
Schedule your consultation with Eagle Rock Dental Care in Idaho today. Let our team help you find the right denture solution that fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Call now or book online to get started!