What are the Different Types of Dentures Available in SmileWorks Dental Doreen?

Dentures offer a reliable solution to restore oral function and appearance for those who have lost teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury. At SmileWorks Dental—Doreen, patients in Doreen, VIC, and nearby areas can access various denture options tailored to their needs. 

Understanding the different types of dentures can help you make an informed decision about which is best for your lifestyle and oral health.

Full Dentures

Full dentures, also called complete dentures, are designed for patients who have lost all their teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. These removable appliances consist of a gum-coloured base that supports a set of artificial teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics.

Advantages of Full Dentures

• Restore the ability to chew and speak properly.
• Provide support to facial muscles, preventing a sunken appearance.
• Custom-fitted to ensure comfort and stability.

Patients who choose full dentures may require a healing period after tooth removal before placement to ensure the best fit. During this time, temporary dentures or immediate dentures can be used while the gums heal, allowing for a smooth transition.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are ideal for patients who have lost some but not all of their teeth. They include a metal or acrylic framework that attaches to the remaining natural teeth for stability.

Advantages of Partial Dentures

• Maintain alignment of natural teeth by preventing shifting.
• Provide an affordable and non-invasive alternative to dental bridges.
• Can be adjusted or modified over time if additional tooth loss occurs.

Partial dentures help restore function and appearance while preserving remaining natural teeth. They can be designed with precision attachments for a more discreet look, avoiding visible clasps.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Unlike traditional removable dentures, implant-supported dentures provide enhanced stability by attaching to dental implants placed in the jawbone. Depending on patient preference, these dentures can be removable or fixed.

Advantages of Implant-Supported Dentures

• Secure fit, reducing movement and discomfort.
• Improved chewing ability compared to traditional dentures.
• Prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone.

This option is suitable for patients with sufficient bone density and good oral health. Implant-supported dentures are particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with loose-fitting dentures, as they offer better retention and comfort.

Immediate Dentures

Immediate dentures are provided on the same day teeth are removed, allowing patients to maintain function and appearance while their gums heal.

Advantages of Immediate Dentures

• Prevents the discomfort of being without teeth during the healing process.
• Protects gum tissues during recovery.
• Allows adjustments as healing progresses.

These dentures require regular modifications as the gums shrink after tooth extraction. Over time, a permanent denture may be necessary to achieve the best fit.

Flexible Dentures

Flexible dentures, made from lightweight, flexible material, offer an alternative to traditional rigid dentures. They provide comfort and durability.

Advantages of Flexible Dentures

• More comfortable than traditional acrylic or metal dentures.
• Less likely to cause sore spots or irritation.
• Secure fit without the need for metal clasps.

Flexible dentures are suitable for patients seeking a comfortable and natural-feeling solution. Their lightweight nature makes them an excellent choice for those who experience discomfort with traditional denture materials.

Overdentures

Overdentures are fitted over a small number of remaining natural teeth or dental implants for additional support. They help retain jawbone structure and provide a secure fit.

Advantages of Overdentures

• Help preserve jawbone density by using existing tooth roots.
• Provide improved stability compared to conventional full dentures.
• Can be removed for cleaning and maintenance.

Overdentures may require modifications as oral health changes over time. However, they offer a more stable alternative to conventional dentures, as they use natural tooth roots as anchors.

Comparison of Denture Types

Type of Denture	Suitable For	Key Benefits
Full Dentures	Patients missing all teeth	Restores function and aesthetics
Partial Dentures	Patients missing some teeth	Prevents natural teeth from shifting
Implant-Supported Dentures	Patients with sufficient jawbone	Secure fit and prevents bone loss
Immediate Dentures	Patients needing same-day tooth replacement	Maintains appearance during healing
Flexible Dentures	Patients needing added comfort	Lightweight and durable
Overdentures	Patients with some natural teeth or implants	Helps retain jawbone structure

Choosing the Right Dentures

The best type of denture depends on individual needs, oral health, and lifestyle. At SmileWorks Dental – Doreen, patients in Doreen, VIC, receive personalised consultations to determine the most suitable option. Factors such as comfort, durability, and long-term maintenance are considered to ensure an optimal outcome.

For individuals considering implant-supported dentures, an assessment is conducted to determine bone density and suitability for implants. If a patient lacks sufficient bone structure, bone grafting may be recommended to improve implant success.

Caring for Your Dentures

Proper care extends the life of dentures and maintains oral health. Basic care includes:

• Cleaning dentures daily with a soft brush and mild soap.
• Storing removable dentures in water or a denture solution when not in use.
• Scheduling regular dental visits to check the fit and oral health.
• Avoiding hot water, which can warp dentures.

Patients with implant-supported dentures should also follow a strict oral hygiene routine to maintain implant health. Using a soft toothbrush and interdental brushes helps clean around the implants and prevents plaque buildup.

Key Takeaways

SmileWorks Dental—Doreen offers various denture options to suit different needs. Whether patients require full, partial, or implant-supported dentures, expert guidance is available to ensure the best choice for restoring oral function and appearance. 

For those in Doreen, VIC, looking for reliable denture solutions, SmileWorks Dental offers professional care tailored to individual needs. A dentist in Doreen can help.