Losing teeth as an adult is scary, but often inevitable. Luckily, dental advances have made overcoming the loss of teeth easier than ever. Full and partial dentures are removable replacements for missing or extracted teeth, and they're among the most popular choices for many adults. This brief guide outlines the differences between the two types. 

What Are the Differences Between Full and Partial Dentures?

Full Dentures 

Full dentures are a replacement for an entire row of teeth. They can either be made in advance and fitted to the patient's mouth as soon as the teeth are removed or lost, or they can be fitted and made after the mouth has healed, a process which can take between two and three months. The benefit of the former is immediacy. If you want to have a mouth full of teeth as soon as possible, immediate dentures, as they're called, are your best option. However, they are best treated as a temporary solution, as the bones and gums in your mouth will change during the recovery process, and you'll need newly fitted dentures later. The latter form of full dentures, known as conventional dentures, will last for longer and be a more comfortable fit.

Partial Dentures

Also known as bridges, partial dentures are a replacement option for a group of teeth, and the patient doesn't need to have all their teeth removed. They are attached to a gum-colored plastic base and hold the teeth in the mouth with metal wiring or clasps. Partial dentures help anchor remaining teeth and ensure that they don't shift in the absence of other teeth. 

If you're in need of replacements for your natural teeth, reach out to Mark Stephens DMD in Richmond, KY. This experienced and compassionate dentist is dedicated to ensuring all patients have as healthy a mouth as possible. Learn more about the office's services online, and call (859) 626-0069 to schedule an appointment.