Full Dentures & Partial Dentures

Dentures Explained: What Are They and Why Do You Need Them?

Losing your teeth creates a number of health risks. Eating becomes difficult with tooth loss, leading to nutrition issues. Jawbones weaken because they are no longer stimulated by teeth hitting together. As jaw density decreases, so does gum tissue. Replacing those missing teeth with dentures can prevent these health-threatening events. Dentures are sets of false teeth that work and look like real teeth. You can eat well again with new dentures. Your jawbone gets the stimulation it needs to stay strong. Gums stay healthier. If you have missing teeth, call us to find out more about dentures in Columbia.

What Are My Denture Options?

Dentures are available in full and partial sets. Full dentures are best if you’ve lost all or most of your teeth on your lower or upper jaw. If you have only a few teeth missing, partial dentures may be the best solution.

Full Denture

Covering your entire upper or lower jaw, a full denture set provides excellent coverage of your mouth. There are two types of full dentures to consider: conventional styles that rest directly on your gums, and implant-supported styles that snap onto dental implants.

Partial Denture

If you still have several healthy teeth remaining, you may prefer a partial denture instead of a full denture. More traditional partials have a sturdy base, rigid gum overlays and metal clasps that hook around the base of adjacent teeth. These clasps are slightly visible, and some people report that the rigid gum line is uncomfortable at first. Still, these traditional partials are durable and affordable quality dentures.

Partials are also available with a flexible plastic base made of thermoplastic resin. This style is also durable and sturdy, and the pliable plastic conforms to your mouth comfortably while chewing and speaking. Flexible plastic partials are less visible than metal dentures, using a gum-colored clasp to fit seamlessly around adjacent teeth.

What Are the Steps for Getting Dentures?

First, your mouth needs to be healthy enough to support a denture. You may need to have a few teeth extracted, a crown added or another procedure performed to prepare for the denture. In a few weeks, your mouth will be healed and ready for measurements and impressions to be made. These measurements are used to create a wax denture sample. Your dentist uses this sample to find the exact right fit for your denture. The final denture is made from this sample. Once your denture is delivered, your dentist will make a few final adjustments for comfort and function.

Can a Soft Reline Help My Denture Fit Better?

Often, a denture becomes uncomfortable as the wearer’s gums and jaw change. A soft denture reline restores the comfort of the denture, adding depth and cushion to the device. This helps the denture conform better to the mouth and can be done in the office while you wait.

What Are the Costs Associated with Dentures?

Denture costs vary widely depending on the number of pre-denture procedures needed and the type of denture selected. Overall, dentures cost less than replacing each lost tooth individually. Our dentists work closely with you to find the right type of affordable quality dentures for you. Call for a consultation today so we can help you plan for your new smile.