denture

A denture, or dental prosthesis, is a removable device that replaces missing teeth and surrounding oral tissues. Dentures are designed to restore function for eating and speaking and to support facial tissues.

There are two main types: complete dentures, which replace all teeth in an arch, and partial dentures, which replace one or more missing teeth and are supported by remaining natural teeth. Complete dentures can be conventional, placed after the gum tissue has healed, or immediate, inserted on the same day teeth are removed. Partial dentures use metal clasps or precision attachments to anchor to adjacent teeth, and may include a flexible resin option.

Denture bases are typically made of acrylic resin; artificial teeth are either acrylic or porcelain. Advances include flexible nylon partials and implant-assisted dentures, which use attachments to implants for greater stability.

The fabrication process includes taking impressions, bite registrations, and jaw relations, followed by lab work and a fitting appointment with adjustments as needed. Maintenance involves daily cleaning with denture cleaner, soaking when not worn, and avoiding hot water or abrasive products. Dentures should be handled over a soft surface and removed at night to rest the tissues. Regular dental visits are needed to reline or replace dentures as the mouth changes.

Benefits include improved appearance, speech, and chewing, along with support for facial soft tissues. Limitations include an adjustment period, sore gums, and gradual bone resorption that can loosen fit. Implant-supported dentures offer greater stability for some patients.