Dentures

Dentures are a good way of replacing missing teeth.

Where some of the teeth are missing a partial denture may be used. These can be plastic / acrylic or metal framed / chrome-cobalt. The remaining teeth are used to stabilise and retain the denture in place. A metal partial denture is far superior to a plastic partial denture.

Where replacing all the teeth a full acrylic denture is used. Full dentures rely heavily on the amount of bone left in the jaw to stay in place.

The anatomy of the maxilla (upper jaw) allows reasonable retention for a full top denture. The lower ridge is a different story and patients often have difficulty with retention of a lower denture. For this reason we would strongly encourage

patients, where feasible, to retain their bottom teeth.

In some circumstances implants may be placed to hold the dentures more firmly in place.

The best option for you will depend on your budget and clinical constraints. Your dentist will advise you on the most appropriate replacement.