Dentures, also referred to as false teeth, replace natural teeth in the mouth. Some individuals lose their natural teeth due to conditions such as decay and gum disease. Without teeth, activities such as eating and speaking become difficult. Almost half of the adults in the United States wear some type of denture, according to KidsHealth from Nemours. A dentist can determine the best type and fit of dentures for each individual. After taking precise measurements and molds, a set of dentures---made from metal and resin---replace missing teeth. Like natural teeth, dentures require proper care.
Immediate Dentures
When an individual prepares to receive a full set of dentures, the dentist pulls out any remaining teeth before making the new dentures. A few weeks prior to the extraction, the dentist takes measurements of the jaw to make a temporary set of dentures. Once all teeth are out, the dentist makes an impression of the gum line to mold the permanent dentures. While waiting for the permanent set of dentures, an individual wears a set of immediate dentures, also referred to as conventional dentures, to help assist in chewing, speaking and self-esteem.
Partial Dentures
For individuals with some teeth missing, partial dentures can help fill the gap. Partial dentures also help keep the remaining teeth from shifting out of position in the mouth, according to Denturewearers.com. This type of denture bridges the real teeth with false teeth molded between them. Several different types of partial dentures exist, depending on the need of the individual.
Conventional Dentures
A full set of conventional dentures replaces all the teeth in the upper and lower jaw. A dentist pulls out all remaining teeth before fitting for the dentures. It takes one to two months for the mouth to fully heal before wearing the new dentures. Once in place, lower dentures may require more effort to keep correctly on the jaw and can slip around.
Overdentures
An overdenture is an appliance that sits directly over teeth or implants in the jaw, according to the American Dental Association. The overdenture covers teeth that would not have the ability to support normal functions of the mouth. This type of denture helps reduce pressure on portions of the bone and the teeth can make the denture fit more securely.
