Dentures
A denture is an appliance that replaces natural teeth and provides support for the cheeks and lips.
Most dentures are made of acrylic and can be fabricated two different ways.
A conventional denture is made after all teeth have been extracted and the tissues (gums) have healed.
An immediate denture is fabricated and inserted immediately after the teeth are extracted and the tissues are allowed to heal under the denture.
An upper denture has acrylic, is usually flesh colored, and covers the roof of the mouth.
A lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to leave room for the tongue.
The teeth are made of plastic, porcelain, or a combination of both.
In many cases dentures can be fabricated to attach to dental implants in order to allow for a more secure fit of the appliance and provide significantly improved retention.
Dentures over a normal course of time will wear and need to be replaced or relined in order to maintain jaw alignment.