All About Complete and Partial Dentures

Dentures are designed to match your natural teeth as well as enhance your smile. They are removable and used for replacing missing teeth and supporting tissues.

Partial dentures are used by people who still have natural teeth left, while complete dentures are used by people who do not have any natural teeth. The partial replacement of your teeth helps fill in the spaces between your teeth and prevent them from shifting.

An intra-oral procedure is normally done after the teeth have been removed and the tissues around the gums have healed, usually taking four to six weeks. During this period, the patient will remain without teeth.  

Despite dentures being very durable, they may need to be repaired, remade, or readjusted during normal wear and tear.

Dentures: The Procedure

A denture is made through several appointments, usually over several weeks. Impressions and measurements are taken to make a unique denture based on your measurements and impressions. It may take several tries to ensure the appropriate shape, color, and fit.

Initially, you may experience increased saliva flow, soreness, and a slight difficulty chewing and speaking. However, these symptoms will decrease as your muscles and tissues begin to adapt to the dentures.

When your new dentures arrive, thorough instructions will be given to you regarding how to properly maintain them. By cleansing your new dental appliance, practicing good oral hygiene, and going to the dentist regularly, your dentures will last for many years.

The Difference Between Complete and Partial Dentures

After removing all teeth and healing the gum tissue, complete dentures can be fitted into the mouth 8 to 12 weeks after the teeth have been removed. A conventional denture is ready for placement as soon as the gum tissue has healed.

A partial denture is a tooth replacement for people who have lost a few or several of their teeth—and can be taken in and out of your mouth. It consists of a denture base, which closely resembles your gums, and dentures teeth. Alternatively, a clasp or other retention device affixes the partial dentures to the existing teeth.

Creating a partial denture requires a model of your mouth, and the time taken to complete a partial denture can vary depending on the type of denture and your dentist's or lab tech's expertise.

Can Dentures be Substituted for Other Options?

The growing trend of dental implants has made them a viable alternative to dentures. However, not everyone is an appropriate candidate for implants. Contact us if you need to know if you are a suitable candidate for implants or dentures.

How to Eat With New Dentures?

To get used to a new denture, start by chewing small soft foods with both hands. You may find that the denture feels uncomfortable at first. Use both hands to chew slowly. Once you become accustomed to your new dentures, you can add other foods until you return to your regular diet.

Please contact us if you are interested in having your dentures repaired. Depending on your needs, you may need specialized treatment or fixed dentures.

Stone Lake Dentistry offers comprehensive dental care services at Cypress, TX by a team of experienced dental assistants led by Dr. Christian Escobar. For more details and appointments, call us at (832) 930-7856, book online, or visit us at 12711 Telge Rd Suite #100, Cypress, TX 77429.