A denture is a removable dental appliance designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. It fills gaps caused by missing teeth and can help prevent your remaining teeth from shifting position. They also help fill out or enhance the shape of your jawline. Dentures are either partial or complete, depending on how many teeth are being replaced.
At Gentilly Family Dental, LLC, our dentist may recommend a complete denture when all your teeth are missing, while a partial denture replaces several missing teeth. Both full and partial dentures are used to restore your smile’s appearance and oral function.
Types of Dentures
Full Dentures
A complete denture is used when all of the teeth in the jaw are missing. The appliance fits over the gums, creating a suction effect that allows it to stay securely in place. Complete dentures usually consist of a pink-colored base that mimics the gums and artificial teeth made from tooth-colored materials.
Partial Dentures
A partial denture can be used if some natural teeth still remain. Unlike a complete denture, this appliance is attached to the adjacent teeth. Partials can help prevent existing teeth from shifting out of place. They are often made from acrylic material resembling natural gum tissue color. They may also be crafted from metal.
The Benefits of Dentures
Restore Your Smile
Having all your teeth enables you to speak properly and eat your favorite foods without discomfort or difficulty. Your facial muscles may also begin to atrophy when you have missing teeth, which can prematurely age your face and cause wrinkles. Restoring your ability to chew and speak can dramatically improve your quality of life.
Easy to Maintain
Dentures require very little care or maintenance. You can brush your dentures just like normal teeth to keep them clean. You should also remove them at night to give your gums a chance to rest and heal.
Improve Your Overall Health
In addition to the cosmetic benefits of replacing missing teeth with dentures, there are also several health benefits to having a complete set of teeth. You will be able to chew your food better, which improves digestion and prevents malnutrition. You will also experience less bone loss in your mouth as you age and prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of place.
Our dentures are custom-made to fit you perfectly. To learn more about dentures, visit Gentilly Family Dental, LLC, at 2610 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119, or call (504) 482-9919.