Dentures 101
The world of dentures has evolved as with all things, and there have been different names coined to either brand a specific style based on materials or to describe a specific technique used in their fabrication.
At the end of the day, there are essentially two categories of dentures:
Dental implants are placed into the bone of the jaw and corresponding attachments into the denture.
- Removable or non-removable.
- Provide the closest functionality to natural teeth for eating, speaking, laughing and smiling.
- Dentures are more secure and provide greater chewing strength than conventional dentures.
- All are removable.
- Complete upper dentures are held in place to the roof of the mouth by natural suction
- Complete lower dentures are held on the ridge of bone/tissue by gravity and the placement is somewhat helped by the muscles of the tongue, cheeks and lips.
- Partial dentures are attached with clasps to the adjacent natural teeth.
Similarly, there are 2 basic fabrication/manufacturing techniques for dentures:
- Dentures are made using average physiological jaw and function measurements.
- Models are then mounted onto a simple articulator reflecting an up and down jaw motion.
- Personal and specific jaw and function measurements are used.
A Facebow measures a patient’s upper ridge in relation to the condyles of their jaw.
A Pin Tracer is used to record the lateral movement of the jaw. - Models based on these specific measurements are mounted onto an adjustable articulator, which mimics multi-directional jaw movement.
- Measurements are used to find the ideal ridge relationship for bite function and power.
- Implant Retained and BPS are examples of Complex dentures.
Materials and Teeth
We use the highest quality materials available – always keeping in mind our patients sensitivities and health. As technology constantly changes, so does the choice of teeth and materials available. We constantly strive to find the best options for natural looking teeth that will perform in the long term.
Appointments
An average of 3-5 appointments are required to fabricate a set of Complete or Partial dentures. Combining some or multiple appointments in 1 day at the beginning of treatment, can accommodate emergency treatment or to help reduce travel costs for out of town patients.
Life of a Denture
The lifespan of a denture is generally accepted as 5-7 years, after which new dentures are recommended. Permanent Relines will most likely be required every 2-3 years during this timeframe.
Dentures need to be maintained and updated similarly to eye glass prescriptions. This is to ensure that not only do the dentures fit and function properly, but to also prevent damage of an over closed jaw position or excess ridge tissue being created from loose and moving dentures.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you.