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Replacing natural teeth is the only way to eliminate the discomfort associated with tooth loss. Most people who are missing one or more teeth are choosing denture implants in Reno, NV, as their replacement option. However, there are many more options you can choose from that may fit your current dental needs.  

So, the question remains, how do you know which type of denture is right for you? Take a look at the six types of dentures below to find the type that best fits the state of your oral health.  

Dentures are prosthetic devices used in the place of natural teeth to improve the appearance and functionality of the mouth. Dentures are typically made of acrylic plastic, although they may also be made of metal alloys.

What are the Types of Dentures?

• Complete Dentures

A complete denture is a prosthetic device that replaces the teeth and gums to completely restore the mouth and face to their original shape and function. The jawbone can have a natural contour and support the new teeth. Complete dentures are the most common type of dentures.  

• Fixed Partial Dentures

A fixed partial denture is used to replace only a specific missing tooth or group of teeth. A fixed partial denture is also known as a bridge. This type of denture is attached to a neighboring tooth to support the prosthetic device. The fixed partial denture is usually made of acrylic, metal, or a combination of the two.  

It is attached to the teeth that are left after your damaged teeth have been removed. If your missing teeth are located in a few different areas of your mouth, then it is more likely that you will need several fixed partial dentures. A fixed partial denture is the best option for people who have a small number of missing teeth.  

It is not recommended for those who have a large number of missing teeth as there is no way to properly secure the dentures in place if they come loose. However, the fixed partial denture is the most economical option for missing a few teeth.

• Removable Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures are a great alternative to complete dentures. This type of denture is a very economical option for people who are missing a few teeth.  

A removable partial denture is made out of acrylic plastic, which is removable and can be used if you want to have a temporary denture while you are undergoing implant treatment, making it an ideal option if you have a very short time to restore your tooth.  

The removable partial denture provides a natural-looking option to people who have missing teeth and want a more conservative solution. However, the removable partial denture cannot be used if you have a lot of missing teeth as they will not be secure.

• Implant-Retained Dentures

This denture is the most recent advancement in dental technology. Implant-retained dentures, otherwise known as denture implants, are placed directly into your jawbone, where they are held in place. The implants used in implant-retained dentures are made from titanium. Titanium is a very strong metal and helps ensure that your dentures are secure.

These implants also serve as a base that your dentures sit on. It is recommended to visit your dentist for a consultation to determine if this is a good option for you. This type of denture is recommended for people who have lost a large number of teeth. You won’t have to worry that the process will be painful because you can undergo sedation dentistry if you wish.  

The implants have been shown to increase bone density and are better able to absorb and distribute normal chewing forces. The implant-retained denture is very durable and stable. If you lose one of your natural teeth, you can have a new implant-retained denture installed in the space, giving you all of the benefits of this technology.  

The advantage of the implant-retained denture is that it can be used even if your jawbone has shrunk significantly. However, they can only be installed if your jawbone is healthy. The implant-retained dentures are not recommended if you have diabetes, cancer treatments, or other systemic diseases.

• Immediate Dentures

Immediate dentures are a very quick and easy option to replace missing teeth. These dentures are typically made of plastic and are placed into your mouth immediately after your damaged teeth have been removed. The procedure is very quick and usually takes less than an hour to complete.  

However, immediate dentures can only be used for a short period. The dentures tend to be very fragile and are not recommended for people who have many missing teeth. It is important to visit the dentist twice a year to have the dentures repaired or replaced.  

Immediate dentures are the least expensive option compared to a permanent denture, but they are not recommended if you have had major gum problems or cancer. Although immediate dentures are a very quick and easy option, they do not last long and have shown very poor results compared to the other types of dentures available.  

Immediate dentures do not stay in place unless you put the dentures in very tightly. They also break very easily in areas where your mouth is subjected to a lot of stress, such as chewing.    

• Snap-In Dentures

Snap-in dentures are a cost-effective option for those who have a short time to replace missing teeth. Snap-in dentures are fabricated to fit comfortably over your existing dentures. This denture is a quick and easy option to replace missing teeth and is typically used for people who have had their upper or lower dentures replaced.  

The advantage of this option is that they can be installed in a matter of minutes and can be removed easily. It is recommended that you visit the dentist every three to six months for regular checkups.  

Another advantage of the snap-in denture is that you do not need to worry about breaking your existing dentures when you remove the denture because a strong adhesive attaches it. The snap-in denture is not recommended for people who have had major gum problems or cancer in the past.  

It tends to be more comfortable because the dentures do not need to be tightened as tightly to stay in place. They are also less likely to break because the dentures are attached to the underlying dentures. Additionally, you are less likely to have it fall off if you have lost a lot of teeth or if you have a smile that is not properly aligned.  

Do You Need Denture Implants in Reno, NV?

At Smile Design Implant Center, we help you find the most appropriate teeth replacement method for your oral health situation. If you want to learn more about our services, schedule your appointment today.