Losing teeth can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to. Removable oral devices like partial and complete dentures can replace missing teeth and gum tissue, giving the appearance of a healthy smile. These custom pieces are fitted by your dentist to serve the same function as natural teeth. Use this guide to determine which oral device would serve your needs best.  

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are ideal when only some teeth are missing, and predominantly healthy natural teeth remain. This removable mouthpiece attaches to a fixed bridge in the mouth connecting the natural and artificial teeth. 

This prevents existing teeth from moving while filling any gaps extracted teeth have left behind. A partial denture can be utilized for the upper or lower jaw using a flesh-looking plastic base connected to a metal framework that holds the dentures in the mouth. 

Full Dentures

Full dentures are for patients who currently have no teeth or have had all of their teeth extracted. A dentist performs a fitting once all teeth have been removed for a conventional or immediate set of dentures. 

A conventional set of dentures is used when 8 to 12 weeks have passed since the extraction, and the gums have totally healed. Immediate dentures are designed to be used immediately after extraction and are made in advance. This device prevents the inconvenience of being without teeth while your gums heal. 

However, during the healing period, the bones and gum tissues can shrink, which means your device will need adjustments to accommodate the changes in your mouth. For this reason, many people use immediate dentures temporarily until the conventional dentures are ready.

The right dentures can make all the difference in a smile. When residents of Columbia Falls, MT, need denture care, they turn to Flathead Denture. Since 2012, this warm and friendly office has worked with dentists and patients to create high quality oral devices, including denture repairs, adjustments, and alignments, as well as partial dentures, dental bridges, and other cosmetic dentistry treatments. For a free consultation, visit the website. For questions, call (406) 892-0700.