Dentures fall into two main categories, complete and partial.
Complete Dentures:
A complete denture is required when a person has previously lost all of their remaining upper and/or lower teeth.
Sometimes extractions are required to remove any remaining teeth on the upper or lower ridge of the mouth. If this is the case, an immediate surgical denture can be fabricated and then inserted on the date of the extractions. This process involves a long healing period consisting of wearing the new dentures with temporary tissue conditioners. After your gums have healed following the extractions, your dentures will be relined to fit your new jaw shape.
Partial Dentures:
Partial dentures are a removable option to replace single or multiple missing natural teeth.
Partial dentures are more customizable than other dentures, as there are several different options. The length of time you hope to use the partial denture and the number of teeth you're missing will affect the type of partial denture you choose. Types of partial dentures include:
Flipper dentures are acrylic and can replace one or multiple teeth. They aren't the most durable, so they are often used as short-term dentures.
Acrylic dentures with wrought clasps or wires have added retention, but they are still usually used as a temporary device.
Cast partial dentures consist of a metal framework, an acrylic base and the prosthetic teeth. The metal framework is fitted to your existing teeth. They fit better than other types of dentures and are more durable.
