Types of Dentures: What Are Available Today
By Dr. Bhumit Shah
6th October 2022
12 mins read
Dentures are false teeth that are used to replace missing teeth so you can smile with confidence. They are typically made from a mould of the patient’s teeth and gums and are made from either acrylic or porcelain. Dentures can be removable or can be fixed in place with dental implants.
If you need replacement teeth, you may be wondering what type of dentures is right for you. There are a few different kinds of dentures available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. In this blog post, Dentalcare of Forrestfield will discuss the different types of dentures. So, if you have dental issues or are just curious about dentures, read on to learn more!
Contents
What are the Different Types of Dentures?
There are various denture solutions available, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The type of denture you need will depend on the number of teeth you need replacing and your individual needs. Here’s a quick rundown of all your denture options.
- Full Dentures –
Also known as complete dentures, these are used for patients who are missing all of their teeth in either the upper or lower jaw or both. They are made of a plastic base fitted over the gums. The false teeth are then attached to the base. They are held in place by suction or denture adhesive.
These are a type of removable dentures, but they can also be fixed in place with dental implants. Full dentures are also less expensive than other types of dentures.Complete dentures are made after the remaining teeth have been removed and the gums have healed, which can take several months. Once the dentures are ready, they will be fitted and attached to the gums.
Although full dentures can be a great solution for those missing all of their teeth, there are some disadvantages to consider. Full dentures can be bulky and uncomfortable, and they can sometimes slip or click when you talk or eat. They also require special care, and you will need to avoid certain foods that are hard to chew. Complete dentures can also require a lot of adjustments and may cause gum irritation.
- Partial Dentures –
Partial dentures are a type of removable dentures used to replace one or more lost teeth. These prosthetic teeth are made to look like your natural teeth and gums and are held in place by metal clasps that attach to the remaining natural teeth.Partial dentures have a few disadvantages, including the fact that they can be uncomfortable and unstable. Partial dentures are typically more comfortable than full dentures but can be more expensive. Additionally, partial dentures can cause gum irritation, and they can make it difficult to brush your natural teeth properly.
- Implant-Supported Dentures –
These are permanent dentures that are held in place by dental implants. Dental implants are titanium screws that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. Once the implants have healed, they can support false teeth. Dental implants are not removable, and they do not need to be replaced.Implant-supported fixed dentures have many advantages over traditional dentures. Since they don’t require suction to stay in place, they offer more stability and are usually more comfortable than other types of dentures.
Despite being the most stable dentures, the biggest disadvantage of implant-supported dentures is that they are more expensive than other types. Additionally, they require surgery to place the implants, which can be a risky procedure. - Temporary Dentures –
These removable dentures are made to be worn while the gums and jawbone heal after tooth loss. They can also be worn while waiting for dental implants to heal. Temporary dentures, also known as immediate dentures, are usually made of acrylic and are not as durable as other types of dentures.Immediate dentures are placed as soon as the remaining teeth are removed. This means that you won’t have to go without teeth during the healing process. However, since the gums are still healing, immediate dentures may need to be relined or replaced after a few months.
The biggest disadvantage of temporary dentures is that they are not as stable or comfortable as other types of dentures. Additionally, temporary dentures may not look as natural as other types of dentures. - Generic Dentures –
Available from some dentists and dental laboratories, generic dentures are mass-produced and fit a wide range of mouth sizes and shapes. These dentures may be less expensive than custom-made dentures, but they are also less comfortable and don’t last as long. - Snap-In Dentures –
Snap-in dentures are a type of custom denture that snaps into place in your mouth. They’re held in place by dental implants or natural teeth, making them more secure than other types of dentures. Snap-in dentures can also be more comfortable because they don’t rub against your gums like other types of dentures. - Ball-Retained Dentures –
Ball-retained dentures are another type of custom denture. They’re held in place by a metal ball that’s attached to your dental implants or real teeth. Ball-retained dentures can be more comfortable than other types of dentures; however, they can be more difficult to keep clean because food and plaque can get trapped around the metal ball. - Bar-Retained Dentures
– Bar-retained dentures are similar to ball-retained dentures, but they’re held in place by a metal bar that’s attached to your dental implants or natural teeth. Bar-retained dentures can be just as comfortable as ball-retained dentures, but they’re easier to keep clean because there’s no metal ball for food and plaque to get trapped around. - Economy Dentures –
Economy dentures are a middle ground between custom and generic dentures. They’re made to fit a range of mouth sizes and shapes but are more customised than generic dentures. As a result, they’re more comfortable than generic dentures but not as expensive as custom dentures.
No matter what type of dentures you choose, it’s important to have them fitted properly by a dentist or prosthodontist. Ill-fitting dentures can cause pain and irritation and can make it difficult to eat and speak.
What Materials are Used to Make Dentures?
Dentures can be made from a variety of different materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Having enough knowledge of dentures can help you select the right material for your artificial teeth.
- Acrylic –
The most common type of denture is made from acrylic. Acrylic dentures are less expensive than other types of dentures, and they can be easily customised to match the natural shade of your teeth. However, although acrylic dentures are popular for being lightweight, they are not as durable as other types of dentures and can stain easily. - Porcelain –
Another type of denture is made from porcelain. Porcelain is a strong and durable material that can last for many years. Porcelain dentures are more expensive than acrylic dentures, but they are also more natural-looking. Another downside to porcelain dentures is that they can be quite heavy and may cause discomfort for some people. They can also cause irritation to the gums. - Composite –
The third type of material used to make dentures is called composite. Composite is a mix of different materials, including plastic and ceramic. Composite dentures are usually the most affordable option, but they are also the least durable and may need to be replaced more often than other types of dentures. - Metal –
Another material used for dentures is metal. Metal makes the most durable dentures, but they are also the most expensive. Metal dentures may not be as comfortable as other types of dentures, and they can be difficult to adjust to. - Resin –
This is also commonly used for dentures. Resin is a lightweight material that can be moulded to fit the shape of your mouth. Resin dentures are usually more affordable than other types of dentures, but they are not as durable and may need to be replaced more often.
Each type of denture has its own advantages and disadvantages. You should discuss your options with your preferred dentist to determine which type of denture is right for you.
How Much Do Different Dentures Cost?
The type of dentures you choose will have a big impact on the final cost. For example, full dentures are usually more expensive than partial dentures. This is because full dentures require more materials and labour to create.
The type of material used to make your dentures can also affect the price. Porcelain or ceramic dentures are usually more expensive than plastic or acrylic dentures. However, they are also more durable and natural-looking.
The other factor that can affect the cost of your dentures is where you live. Dentists in large cities typically charge more for their services than those in smaller towns. This is because the overhead costs of running a dental practice in a big city are usually higher than in a smaller town. Additionally, dentists in rural areas may have less experience and training than those who work in urban areas.
Finally, your insurance coverage can also affect the cost of your dentures treatment. Many dental insurance plans will cover at least a portion of the cost of dentures, but the coverage varies widely from one plan to another. If you have dental insurance, be sure to check with your insurer to see what coverage they provide for dentures.
In general, a full pair of dentures typically cost between $2300 and $3300, while partial dentures start at $700. Meanwhile, temporary dentures may cost between $100 and $1000. Finally, implant-supported dentures start at $6000 and can go up to $8000.
These prices are simply estimates, however, and serve to give you an idea of how much you would need for each type of denture. To determine the actual cost of your treatment, schedule a consultation with your dentist. With proper care and maintenance, dentures can last for many years, so they are a good investment for your oral health.
Final Thoughts
Dentures are a great way to improve your oral health and achieve a full, natural-looking smile. With the many different types of dentures available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Whatever type of denture you choose, be sure to take good care of them to ensure they last a long time.
It’s important to schedule a consultation with the dental team at Dentalcare of Forrestfield to find the ideal dentures for your budget and needs. We can help you choose the right type of denture and the material to be used. Please book an appointment online or by calling our clinic at 08 9453 2326!
FAQs
It is common for people to have some trouble speaking clearly when they first get dentures. However, most people adjust quickly and are able to speak normally within a few weeks.
Yes, you can eat with dentures. Dentures are designed to allow you to eat most of the same foods you ate before you got them. It may take some time to get used to chewing with dentures, and you may have to avoid sticky or hard foods at first. It is important to start with soft foods and cut your food into small pieces to avoid biting your tongue or cheek. Soft fruits and vegetables, eggs, fish, and pasta are good choices to start with. As you get used to eating with dentures, you will be able to eat more types of foods.
No. Dentures should be removed at night, cleaned, and soaked in denture cleansers to keep them in good condition. Doing so will also allow your gums to rest. We also recommend cleaning your dentures every day to remove food and bacteria. It is important to remove your dentures and clean your mouth after eating to avoid problems with your gums.
It is important to see your dentist every six months for a checkup. Your dentures should also be checked and cleaned by your dentist every six months. Dentists can spot any potential issues with your dentures or mouth and make sure that your dentures fit well. You should also see your dentist if you have any problems with your dentures, such as pain or difficulty eating.
Dr. Bhumit Shah, Principal Dentist
Dr. Bhumit Shah graduated from dental school in 2007 and has been providing quality dental care ever since. His patients describe him as a kind, attentive, and efficient dentist who always puts their needs first.
Providing safe, modern dental care is Dr. Bhumit's passion. In addition to cosmetic dentistry, he has a special interest in surgical dentistry. He uses minimally invasive dentistry to prevent serious dental diseases.
