Dentures provide a replacement option for missing teeth. They can be taken out and put back in as you please. Depending on your needs, a full or partial set may be used, and a complete set is an option when all natural teeth have been removed.
Conventional full dentures are placed once all teeth have been removed and the tissue has had time to heal. Healing may take a few months, and you may be without teeth during this time.
Immediate full dentures are provided right after the teeth are removed, so you may not have to spend any time without teeth. Because your jawbone can change shape as it heals, you may need follow-up visits for refitting. Once the bone has completely healed, the appliance will be tightened.
Partial dentures are an additional option when not all of your teeth require removal. They are comparable to a bridge, except they are not permanently affixed in your mouth.
It may take time to get used to your dentures. Some patients report that they feel bulky or leave little room for the tongue, and they may loosen over time. You may need to change the way you eat and speak for a while, but once your mouth adapts, they will begin to feel more like natural teeth.
Dr. Hegde recommends caring for your dentures with the same quality and attention you give your natural teeth. Handle them carefully to avoid dropping them, and never try to adjust them yourself, since you could cause damage.
