O’Fallon Dentures Dentist Explains the Basics of Partial and Full Dentures, Respectively
When patients are missing natural teeth, it is crucial that they seek restorative treatments to keep their smiles as healthy as possible. There are many different tooth replacement options available. One popular, and tried and true, restorative option is the denture. Not all dentures are exactly the same, however, which is why our O’Fallon denture dentists are, today, discussing some of the key attributes of partial and full dentures.
First, here are some basic facts that apply to both full and partial dentures.
1. Dentures are designed to replace missing teeth
2. You can eat and drink with your dentures in place
3. Dentures allow you to smile and speak with confidence
4. Dentures sit on top of the patient’s gum tissue (they do not extend into the jawbone as dental implants do)
When it comes to which type of denture is right for you, you need to consider the current state of your smile, and the ultimate dental results you are trying to achieve.
Full dentures are used to restore a patient’s smile when a patient has lost an entire set of upper or lower teeth. These dentures are held in place on top of the gum tissue with dental adhesive; the dental base of the denture is also made to fit over the patient’s specific gum tissue, which enhances the fit.
Partial dentures are great for replacing multiple teeth, but not the entire set of upper or lower teeth. Partial dentures stay in place because they are attached to the patient’s natural teeth that bookend the partial denture.
The sooner that you seek treatment for prematurely missing teeth, the better your long term dental health prognosis. Please do not hesitate to contact our O’Fallon dentures dentist office for more information or to schedule your personal consultation with our dental team.