Dentures

Conventional Complete Dentures

Patient's mouth before dentures
Patient's mouth after dentures

A complete denture is a removable appliance that stands in for all the upper or lower teeth. The denture is supported by the patient’s remaining gum ridge and the comfort of this appliance depends on the patient’s muscle, bones, tongue, and saliva. Dentures can be constructed to provide a natural smile. If a patient has lost, or is losing, all of his or her teeth, a complete denture is the lowest cost tooth replacement option. Upper dentures are easier to get accustomed to than lower dentures. Some patients cannot adapt to a conventional lower denture. They have difficulty eating and speaking, which can hurt their self-confidence. Patients who don’t fare well with conventional complete dentures often fare much better with “Snap-on” dentures. (See case illustrated below.)

Benefits of conventional dentures:

  • Less costly than other replacement alternatives
  • Improved appearance
  • Moderate chewing ability
  • Medium Term Solution