If you are considering dentures, how about some basics first? How about we discuss the definition of complete dentures.
If you have had all of your teeth removed, you will be looking for complete dentures, rather than partial dentures. Partial dentures are typically designed to replace only some missing teeth, not all the teeth. Complete dentures are put in place after all the teeth have been removed, replacing the extracted teeth and presenting a nice smile once again.
Complete dentures may further be defined as either conventional or immediate; you may read about or hear these terms regarding complete dentures, so let’s define them.
Conventional complete dentures are placed in the mouth approximately eight to twelve weeks after the teeth have been removed. This gives the mouth and the gum tissue plenty of time to heal and recover. They are molded and crafted uniquely for your mouth, to resemble your original teeth, with obvious flaws eliminated.
On the other hand, immediate complete dentures are crafted in advance and placed immediately after the teeth are removed. This is positive in that you don’t have to be without teeth for any period of time, saving you frustration and embarrassment. Healing of the mouth and gums occurs while the complete dentures are in place.
However, a big downside to immediate complete dentures is that they typically require more adjustments to ensure a proper fit than conventional complete dentures would. Again, this is due to the lack of a waiting period in which the bones and gums have time to heal. Also, gums will shrink over time, particularly after tooth extraction, causing further fit challenges.
As such, we would normally consider immediate complete dentures a temporary solution, placed until complete conventional dentures can be put into place, following a solid healing period. This will help ensure not only a good fit, but also a good long-term tooth replacement solution.
Are you looking for complete dentures? Or do you have a set of complete or partial dentures already and are just not happy with them or their fit? Dr. Joseph Majka is a dentist in Valparaiso, Indiana who has years of experience helping his clients with complete dentures and partial dentures. For gentle, caring dentistry, call Dr. Majka at (219) 464-7191 for an appointment today.