TYPES OF COMPLETE AND PARTIAL DENTURES

by Robert Madden, DDS, MBA

Types of Complete and Partial Dentures

Prostheses known as dentures can either be used to replace all the teeth in the mouth or fitted around remaining natural teeth. Complete dentures come in two varieties, immediate and conventional. Immediate complete dentures are formed before teeth are removed and can be used right away. Because a patient’s bones and gums shrink following tooth removal, however, they sometimes require adjustments. Conventional dentures are made after tooth removal, but typically are not ready to be worn for eight to 12 weeks. Partial dentures, sometimes also called bridges, utilize a plastic base and metal framework to keep them in place inside the mouth. They can either be cemented in place to form a permanent bridge or left removable.

About the Author

The owner of Southwest Family Dentistry in Littleton, Dr. Robert Madden has served the Denver area as a dentist for nearly three decades. Dr. Madden and his staff provide numerous services at their office at 9200 West Cross Drive, including providing complete and partial dentures.