Cosmetic Dentistry Dentures and Immediate Dentures
San Diego, California - Dentures by Fremont Dental Arts
When Are Dentures Used in Cosmetic Dentistry?
Dentures can be used to restore a patient’s smile when a patient has
significant oral problems such as extensive decay or gum disease. Creating a
beautiful and well-fitting denture requires tremendous artistic and
technical skills that only a skilled dentist can provide. Complete dentures
are for those who have lost most or all of their teeth, while partial
dentures are suitable for those who have some natural teeth remaining.
Immediate Dentures
The term immediate dentures means that the denture is delivered immediately after the teeth are extracted. That way the patient does not have to go toothless –plus, the immediate placement of the denture controls swelling. As the extraction sites heal there will be shrinkage of the gums and a series of tissue conditioning relines will be placed every few weeks until the gums are healed. Then, after one year, a permanent lab reline is placed in the denture to tighten the fit. Most of the photos below are examples of immediate upper dentures.
A denture improves chewing ability and speech.
Dentures also provide support for facial muscles to enhance your facial
appearance and smile.
Before and after
pictures of dentures
and immediate dentures
(click images for larger view)
Partial Dentures
Many people are not ready for dentures but still have some teeth remaining. These areas can be replaced with a partial denture. Many times these supporting teeth are not strong enough to support bridges but are good abutments for a removable bridge or partial denture. They can also be used as a temporary replacement while implants are healing under the gums.