Dentures are a highly effective tooth-replacement option. Several types of dentures are available for meeting a wide range of needs. Whether you are missing just a few teeth or a full row, dentures can restore your smile. Dr. Thomas Faiver, the knowledgeable dentist at our office in East Lansing, MI, can determine which denture can best meet your needs.
 

Types of Dentures

Several kinds of dentures are available but there are two main types known as partial dentures and full or complete dentures. Partial dentures are used when some teeth remain. The pontics or artificial teeth, on partial dentures, match up with the empty gaps where teeth are missing. Partial dentures make it possible to fill the gaps in your smile without disturbing the natural teeth. Full or complete dentures are used when replacing an entire row of teeth.
 

There are two types of partial dentures: transitional and removable. Transitional partial dentures are only meant to be worn temporarily while waiting for permanent dentures. This type of denture is often used following tooth extraction. Transitional dentures allow you to enjoy a full set of teeth while waiting for the gums to heal from extraction. Once the gums have healed, a transitional denture can be replaced with a custom-made removable denture. Since these dentures are custom made they offer a better fit and can be worn long-term.
 

Types of full or complete dentures include immediate, conventional, and fixed. Immediate dentures serve the same purpose as transitional partials. They allow you to enjoy a full smile while recovering from an extraction procedure. Once the gums have healed, you are ready for a conventional or fixed denture. Conventional full dentures are custom made for a better fit and they conform to your mouth over time.
 

Fixed dentures, also called implant-supported dentures, are considered to be a state-of-the-art tooth replacement option among dentures. They are permanently and securely held in place by several dental implants rather than an oral adhesive. Fixed dentures will not slip out of place when eating or speaking. A minor surgical procedure is required to place the dental implants and you must have enough bone to support placement. The skilled dentist at our office in East Lansing, MI, can determine if you are a candidate for implant-supported dentures.
 

Benefits of Dentures

No matter what type of denture you choose, whether removable or fixed, you can experience several benefits. In addition to restoring your smile, replacing missing teeth can reverse many of the unwanted side effects associated with tooth loss, such as:

• Filling in the gaps in your smile caused by tooth loss
• Restoring facial contours by providing support for sagging facial muscles
• Improving speech and pronunciation by correcting tongue placement when talking
• Eliminating excess strain on natural teeth by more evenly distributing biting and chewing functions

Dentures can restore your smile and reverse many of the side effects of tooth loss. Dr. Thomas Faiver can help you figure out which denture is best for you. To schedule an appointment with the dentist, call our office in East Lansing, MI, at (517) 351-7222.