TYPES AND BENEFITS OF DENTURES

By Robert Madden

Introduction

Robert Madden, DDS, MBA, owns and practices at Southwest Family Dentistry in Littleton, Colorado. At the Greater Denver practice, Dr. Robert Madden helps people with dental needs that range from routine care to dealing with tooth loss.

There are several options for individuals who have lost teeth, such as dentures and implants. In certain cases, the best option might be dentures, which can have a variety of benefits. For example, in cases where a person has lost a significant number of teeth, dentures can help restore the original contours of the face and thereby improve self-esteem. Additionally, they can make it easier for the individual to eat and speak normally.

Dentures

There are a number of types of dentures. Some people require full dentures, while in other cases only partial dentures are necessary. In order to be most comfortable and effective, it is important that the dentures be fitted properly. A patient might be given temporary dentures at first, particularly if the mouth is healing after teeth have been extracted. After a period of healing and adjustment, the patient is typically ready for a more permanent solution.

Many dentures are removable and stay in place through suction against the ridges of the mouth. In some cases, however, a person might be given implants in the jaw designed to help anchor dentures. Whichever method is eventually chosen, patients should always consult with a qualified dentist about their denture options.