Finding the Right Fit: Fixed Vs. Removable Dentures

Dealing with tooth loss can be difficult. Fortunately, dentures are a time-tested cosmetic dentistry solution for replacing lost teeth, and there are multiple options available at Bluff Creek Dental that can be tailored to your individual need.

Dentures come in two main varieties, fixed and removable. Continue reading below to learn how fixed or removable dentures can provide the best fit for you!

Removable Dentures 

Removable dentures are made of a gum-colored base and prosthetic teeth, which fit over the remaining bone ridge that formerly held your natural teeth. They are, of course, removable, and your dentist will fit you with one of two removable denture types.

Partial Dentures

If you’re missing just a few teeth on either side of your jaw, you will be fitted with partial dentures. Some partial dentures are transitional, and they serve as a temporary replacement for teeth following an extraction, or if you are preparing for dental implants. Once you’re ready to move on to something more permanent, you will be fitted for dentures that are customized to your mouth. These are well-constructed and metal-based, and you’ll be able to use them for quite a while.

Full Dentures

If you’ve lost your full set of teeth then full dentures are the way to go. Full dentures can look and function just like your natural teeth. Here the upper denture is like a plate that covers the roof of your mouth. Meanwhile a set of lower dentures is horseshoe-shaped and rests on your gums. Down the line, your dentures can be crafted to accurately look and feel like your full set of natural teeth. These dentures are last a long time, too.

Fixed Dentures

While removable dentures are a great functional and economic solution, fixed dentures (or implant-supported dentures) are considered the gold standard for tooth replacement, acting as the better life-long investment. Read on for more information about how fixed dentures can fit into your life and dental treatment.

Dental Implants

Dental implants essentially serve the same purpose as the roots of teeth, anchoring replacements to your jawbone. The titanium implants are very stable, reliable, and out-of-sight underneath your gum line. Your dentist will determine how many implants you will need for your dentures. This is dependent on the density and volume of bone in your jaw. 

The surgery for placing implants is a routine procedure that is often carried out under local anesthesia. Following the surgery, your dentist will provide temporary replacement teeth until your permanent retainer can be installed.

Natural Function

Fixed dentures look, and perhaps more importantly work and feel like your own natural teeth. Along with providing support for your lips and cheeks, fixed dentures should last for a lifetime and help with bone health. In contrast, removable dentures may be prone to slippage and require use of denture adhesives and creams. They may also require replacement or refinement in the future.

Get Fitted

No matter which type you choose, dentures can help you regain your ability for normal speech, eating, and even smiling. You can rest assured with any of our state-of-the-art denture types that Bluff Creek Dental’s dentists will assist you in finding the perfect fit. Contact us at our Chanhassen, MN office to schedule an appointment for a consultation and fitting!