A partial denture is any prosthesis that replaces one or a set of teeth to restore function:
The types are as follows:
- FIXED PARTIAL DENTURES (FPD): This is nothing but a fixed bridge that can replace one or more missing teeth. To make this we involve the teeth immediately next to space. They help to support the bridge and aid in function. The bridge is custom fabricated in a dental laboratory and fixed on the adjacent teeth with permanent cement. This is a very popular option as this is almost like having your natural teeth. FPDs can be made in different materials which resemble the colour of your remaining teeth. You can pick and choose according to your budget allowance.
- REMOVABLE PARTIAL DENTURES (RPD): This is a removable prosthesis that is made up of a plate the colour of your gums which sits on top of your gums. The teeth sit on top of this plate and replace your missing teeth. You are instructed to remove it at the end of the day, clean it properly and store it in water overnight. This also comes in a variety of materials like plastic, acrylic, valplast, flexiplast and metal. You can request more information on the pros and cons of each material by making a call and booking an appointment.
- CAST PARTIAL DENTURE (CPD): The only variation in this type of partial denture is the material of the base plate which is a metal alloy. The advantage of this type of partial denture is the comfort level. Since metals are strong, the base plate which supports the denture structure is very thin which dramatically increases the comfort level which increases patient acceptance. This metal has great polishability and all the edges are rounded to prevent tissue damage. They are a little costlier than the partial dentures of another material but they are worth it in the long run.
- valplast PARTIAL DENTURE (VRD): Again, this is just a variation of the material of the partial denture. Valplast dentures are mildly flexible which increases the comfort level of the lower partial denture as it accommodates the movement of the tongue and floor of the mouth. Again, they cost a little more but the comfort level is completely worth it.
A complete denture is a prosthesis that replaces all teeth in the mouth. It also contains a base plate that sits on top of the jaw bones and their edges support the muscles of the upper and lower jaws which help in better chewing. There are varieties in this denture too which are as follows:
- CONVENTIONAL COMPLETE DENTURES: These are complete dentures that are made up of acrylic. The base plate sitting on the jaws is acrylic as well as the false teeth on top of the denture. These dentures are relatively cheap but they stain over months and they are very fragile. They may break into two on impact. Their false teeth tend to flatten over months and the patient may require a new set of dentures very soon.
- LONG TERM COMPLETE DENTURES: These dentures are made up of a sturdier material that doesn't break as easily. The false teeth on the denture are porcelain which lasts for a longer time. Since the material is strong, the denture base can be made thin which increases the comfort level of the wearer.
- IMMEDIATE COMPLETE DENTURES: These dentures are given to patients who do not want to go without teeth, even after extraction. We make plaster models of the recipient patient and grind down the teeth which we will extract at a later appointment. A denture is fabricated based on the models. At the time of the extraction appointment, the denture is delivered after the extraction is done and bleeding is brought under control. This is a great preparatory tool as the patient gets an idea about his following dentures. We counsel the patient on the use of his denture and how to take care of it.
- CAST PARTIAL COMPLETE DENTURES: This is just a variation of the material. The base plate of the denture is metal but the parts of the gums and teeth are all-natural looking. A great advantage of this is that since the metal alloy used is strong the denture base can be made thin which increases the comfort level of the wearer. Since metals are a good conductor of heat, this is the option for those who enjoy hot tea and coffee or ice creams and other cold foods. The metal conducts the temperature of food to the surfaces of the mouth it covers thereby giving it a natural feel.
- OVERDENTURE: This type of denture is made only for patients with remaining teeth which are whole and strong with good bone support. Patient selection is very important for these dentures. The teeth are covered with metal coping which acts as a male attachment. The female attachment is fabricated on the inner surface of the denture which is in direct contact with the gums. This is specifically designed for the lower denture as they can get unsteady in a constantly moving mouth. This improves the attachment of the lower denture and increases comfort greatly.
- IMPLANT SUPPORTED COMPLETE DENTURES: This can get expensive since implants are involved but the resulting dentures have a great fit. The dentures sit on top of the implant which makes them a great option for people with good strong bones. The lower denture is usually fabricated using implant attachments.
All the dentures have one step in common. Before the final denture is made, a trial of the denture is done in wax which is called a ‘wax try-in. During this appointment, the comfort level and the anatomic positions of the teeth are checked. Any changes that the patient desires can be made during this trial. The final step is undertaken only after approval from the patient.
Very agile hands, didn't feel a thing. The most pain-free root canal in my life.