In order to replace missing teeth, we can fit your mouth with full or partial dentures. Unlike implants, these are removable. Dentures support the structure of the face and prevent undue sagging. Obviously they provide the benefit of chewing and a pleasant appearance.
If you would like to discuss the options of dentures, our Ottawa dental staff is happy to help you discover the best solutions for your needs. Just make an appointment.
Complete Dentures
There are two types of complete dentures, “conventional” and “immediate”. After the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has started the healing process, a conventional denture is placed in the mouth. This occurs around 8 or 12 weeks after the extractions.
Immediate dentures are made in advance and, unlike conventional dentures, they are placed in position as soon as the teeth have been removed. This means the patient does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. Bones and gums will shrink over time, especially following extractions. So the disadvantage is that immediate dentures will require adjustments during the healing process. So immediate dentures are really a temporary solution until the conventional or permanent dentures are finished.
Partial Dentures
A removable partial denture, or bridge, is a device of replacement teeth attached to a pink (or color of your gums) plastic base. Sometimes it is connected with a metal framework to hold the denture in place. Partial dentures are used when there are teeth remaining in the jaw.
A fixed bridge replaces one or more teeth. Crowns are placed on the teeth on either side of the space and then artificial teeth are inserted. This bridge is cemented into place. this partial denture will fill the space(s) left by missing teeth plus it prevents other teeth from shifting. A precision partial denture is a removable item and uses internal attachments, rather than clasps, to attach to the adjacent crowned teeth. This appliance is more natural appearing.