Partial/Full Dentures
People with missing teeth may opt for partial/full dentures to restore both their smile and their confidence. The All Pro Dental Care team helps Fairfax, VA and Merrifield area residents keep their smiles whole and healthy with custom dentures or other smile restoration treatments.
Partial/Full Dentures Q & A
How Do Partial Dentures Work?
Partial dentures are a solution for people who have lost only a couple of their teeth. No matter where the teeth are, filling the holes left by those missing teeth can be very helpful. If those holes are not filled, the other teeth in the mouth will start to migrate into the empty space. This can put a lot of stress on the root structure of the teeth, and it may even cause problems with eating and swallowing if not corrected. Partial dentures are created specifically to prevent these types of issues. The new teeth are made from either acrylic resin or porcelain, while the denture base is a pliable plastic that can suction firmly to the gums. A biocompatible metal alloy completes the partial dentures. This metal forms a retainer-like framework that allows the dentures to snap into place, using the natural teeth as support.
How Do Full Dentures Work?
Full dentures are similar in structure to partial dentures, however, the full dentures do not have natural teeth to use as a support system. Patients who have lost all of their natural teeth often feel very self-conscious. People who have not smiled in years due to embarrassment may feel like they have a whole new lease on life with full dentures. These type of dentures replace all the natural teeth, creating a perfect smile. The teeth on full dentures are made from acrylic resin or porcelain. The base is a moldable plastic that is designed to suction securely against the gums. To ensure that the dentures won't shift at all, a denture adhesive can be applied to the denture base.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
Removable dentures last for a long time -- anywhere from five years minimum up to several decades, varying with each person. It is very common for dentures to last for ten years or more. Regular yearly exams to check the fit of the dentures and overall oral health are an important part of maximizing denture longevity.
