Dentures – What You Need to Know

 

Dentures are a removable replacement option for missing teeth, crafted from durable acrylic (plastic) or metal materials. Depending on your needs, dentures can replace a full arch of missing teeth or just a few. They are supported by surrounding soft and hard oral tissues, or by any remaining natural teeth. Your North York Dentist will take precise measurements and help you determine the best denture option for your oral health and lifestyle.

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Types of Dentures

 

Complete (Full) Dentures

These dentures are used when all teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. They come in two types:

• Conventional Dentures are placed after the gums have fully healed from any necessary tooth extractions. Healing can take a few months, but this approach ensures a more accurate and comfortable fit.

• Immediate Dentures are inserted right after teeth are removed, so you’re never without teeth during the healing period. However, they often require more adjustments and may need to be remade once your gums have fully healed and reshaped.

 

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures replace one or more missing teeth in a single arch. They attach securely to your natural teeth using small metal clasps, making them easy to insert and remove. This option is ideal if you still have healthy teeth remaining.

 

Over Dentures

Over dentures are supported by either natural teeth or dental implants. This type offers increased stability and retention, making them a more secure alternative to conventional dentures.

 

Why Choose Dentures?

 

Dentures can significantly improve your daily quality of life by restoring both the function and aesthetics of your smile. Here are just a few benefits:

• Improve chewing and eating ability

• Maintain natural facial features by preventing muscle sagging

• Enhance speech and pronunciation

• Boost confidence and self-esteem by restoring your smile

 

Important Things to Know About Dentures

 

Adjusting to dentures takes a little time and patience. You may experience minor irritation or soreness as your mouth adapts. Your cheek and tongue muscles will gradually learn to keep the denture in place as you speak and eat.

 

In many cases, dentures need to be relined 1–2 weeks after placement and again 2–3 months later. Bone resorption and gum shrinkage can affect the fit, so regular follow-up care is essential to maintain comfort and function.