Understanding different types of dentures

People who have one or more missing teeth, are often advised to go for dental procedure to replace the gaps with artificial teeth called dentures. Even though the quality of dentures improved significantly over the past few years, it is still considered as an efficient option because of its vast disadvantages. There are two possible options while choosing dentures – removable dentures and implant supported permanent dentures. Removable dentures, which are primarily fitted to the gums with denture adhesive can eventually become uncomfortable over a period of time causing damage to the other adjacent teeth and gums. However, permanent option using implants would be more viable because it has less inconvenience when compared to the removable one.

Removable dentures
Previously, people used to prefer removable dentures because they are very economical and do not require implants to fix them. They are also very effortless to maintain as one can easily remove and clean them as they like. To start with, dentures have comfortable fit but as the time passes by, the tooth root becomes thinner making them unfit and loose inside the mouth. As a result the person feels uncomfortable whenever the mouth is opened to talk, laugh or while eating. Sometimes, because of the loose movement, the hard plastic and metal parts of the dentures get rubbed against the inner soft tissue of the mouth, often resulting in the gum damage and mouth sores. Hence many doctors recommend to go for permanent dentures with implants that can be fitted to the tooth root.

Permanent dentures
Whether it is for a couple of teeth or for full mouth, dental implants resolve the issue and bring the smile back to your face in a natural manner. Through a surgical procedure, implants which are also known as artificial tooth roots are fitted into the jawbone, to hold the replacement tooth or bridge. It not only improves the smile but also stops bone thinning and deterioration. For single tooth loss, periodontist would suggest with one implant and a crown whereas if several teeth are missing then implant-supported bridges are recommended. Once the implants are set, the dentures would automatically fit into them and the patient will no more experience the issues that are usually associated with removable or temporary dentures.

Mini dental implants
There is also another simple procedure called mini dental implants, suggested for people who do not want to go through the invasive surgical procedures or who have very thin jawbone to hold the traditional implants. These implants have the same structure as traditional ones, but are slightly smaller in form. The procedure does not involve any surgical process and the implants are attached using a very minimal invasive method. The procedure requires very little time to heal and the patient will not feel any discomfort after he/she recovers from the procedure.