Full and Partial Dentures

Various Types of Dentures Are Available

Dentures are a removable replacement for missing teeth that give you the flexibility of taking them in and out of your mouth at your discretion. Depending on your unique needs, you may receive full or partial dentures. Schedule an appointment at Robert B. Hurley, DDS in Greenville or Grand Rapids to find out what works best for you.

Full dentures are used when all of the natural teeth are missing from the mouth and need to be replaced. There are two types of full dentures:

• Conventional Full Dentures — These are used when all teeth are removed and the tissue has time to heal before the dentures are placed. Gum tissue can take a few months to heal completely, leaving you without your teeth during this time.
• Immediate Full Dentures — With this type of dentures, your dentist takes measurements to have dentures fitted for your mouth so that, once your teeth are removed, the dentures can be placed in your mouth immediately. The benefit is that there is no time spent without your teeth. However, you will be required to have a follow-up appointment to refit your dentures as your jawbone will slightly change shape as your mouth heals. These dentures will need to be tightened after the jawbone heals.

Partial dentures are an option when not all of your teeth are being removed. This type of denture is similar to a bridge, except it is not a permanent fixture.

Adjusting to Your New Dentures

Dentures may take you a while to get used to. The flesh-colored base of the dentures is placed over your gums, and it may feel bulky or like you don't have enough room for your tongue. Your dentures might even feel loose, causing them to temporarily affect the way you eat and talk.

Over time, your mouth will become accustomed to eating and speaking with your dentures, and they'll feel more and more like your natural teeth. While they may never feel 100% as comfortable as your own teeth, it is a better alternative to not having any teeth at all.

Caring For Your Dentures

Although dentures aren't real teeth, you should care for them like they are. Brush them regularly to remove plaque and food particles before removing your dentures.

After removing your dentures, place them into room temperature water or a denture cleaning solution. Never place your dentures into hot water as it could warp the dentures.

Dentures are delicate, so be sure to be careful when handling them to avoid dropping them. Never try to adjust your dentures yourself, as you could ruin them. Always reach out to your dentist if they feel uncomfortable or loose.