Types of Dentures
We provide both traditional and custom dentures for our patients’ differing needs. Often, we recommend custom dentures so patients can enjoy a more comfortable, better-fitting appliance. When we customize your dentures, there is less likelihood of slippage or missed alignment.
Partial Dentures
For patients who are not missing all of their teeth, partial dentures can be a great option where the replacement teeth are secured by the surrounding teeth still remaining in the jaw. With partial dentures, you get the stability of anchoring to existing teeth with the convenience of having a removable prosthetic.
This innovative approach allows us to design and create partial dentures with remarkable precision and efficiency. Using cutting-edge 3D printing technology, we can significantly reduce the time it takes to craft and place your new partials (within one to two visits). Patients benefit from a faster turnaround without compromising on comfort or quality, ensuring a seamless fit and a beautiful, functional smile. With 3D-printed partial dentures, you can enjoy a modern solution tailored specifically to your dental needs.
Traditional Full Dentures
For some patients, traditional dentures are the straightforward solution to address tooth loss. Intended for patients missing many teeth, we design these beautiful dental appliances to fit comfortably in the mouth while appearing like a new, sparkling smile.
Traditional dentures remain in place by bracing around the jawbone and gum tissue of the patient’s dental arch—generally with the additional aid of a denture cement or glue. Traditional dentures can also be custom-made for each patient.
The traditional denture allows the patient to bite and chew as they usually could, though you should avoid extra sticky or chewy substances. This model of dental appliance is also removable for easier cleaning and better comfort while you sleep at night!
Implant-Supported Dentures
If you are interested in a more permanent solution for missing teeth, implant-supported dentures may be the option for you. The first key difference between these models and traditional dentures is how they are secured in your mouth. These appliances have posts that are comfortably and securely anchored to your jaw, simulating the function of your teeth’s roots.
Permanent dentures provide all the advantages of traditional dentures but with more stability. It cannot be removed, which ensures it does not slip, require realignment, or become lost. It can be cared for as easily as your natural teeth with regular brushing and flossing.
Better yet, these sturdy implant dentures will stay secure all day, every day, so you don’t have to change anything about the way you eat! To find out more about how implants make wearing dentures easy, read through our Implant-Supported Dentures page.
The Denture Process
At McKinley-Holloway Legacy Dentistry, we are proud to offer advanced 3D printing technology to create custom partial dentures with exceptional precision and efficiency. This state-of-the-art process allows us to design, produce, and place your partials in as little as one to two visits. By utilizing this innovative approach, we reduce the time traditionally required while maintaining superior comfort, fit, and quality. Patients can enjoy a fast and reliable solution tailored specifically to their unique dental needs, restoring both function and confidence in their smile. Experience the modern convenience of 3D-printed dentures and see how we can transform your care.
For implant-supported dentures, we’ll create the dentures the same way, but you will undergo the additional step of having dental implants secured in your jawbone to anchor your new teeth.
FAQs About Dentures & Partial Dentures
1. What are the main differences between dentures and partial dentures?
Dentures are designed to replace a full arch of missing teeth, which can include either the upper or lower set or both. Partial dentures, on the other hand, are intended for patients who still have some natural teeth remaining. Partial dentures fill in the gaps by anchoring to your existing teeth, whereas full dentures rely on your gums or implants for support.
2. How long does it take to get dentures or partial dentures?
The time it takes to receive your dentures or partial dentures depends on the type of appliance and your unique needs. If you choose custom or traditional dentures, the process may take a few weeks, involving several appointments for impressions, fittings, and adjustments. However, with our advanced 3D printing technology, partial dentures can often be completed in just one or two visits for a faster turnaround.
3. How should I care for my dentures or partial dentures?
Proper care of your dentures includes regular cleaning to prevent plaque build-up and maintain oral hygiene. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser and a soft brush to clean your dentures daily. For removable dentures, store them in a denture-soaking solution overnight to keep them from drying out. Implant-supported dentures require the same care as natural teeth, including brushing twice a day and regular flossing.
4. Will dentures or partial dentures affect the way I speak or eat?
It may take some time to adjust to speaking and eating with new dentures, especially if you’re using them for the first time. During the adjustment period, practice speaking slowly and chewing softer foods. Over time, your mouth muscles will adapt, and you’ll regain confidence in your speech and eating habits. Implant-supported dentures are especially beneficial in maintaining a natural feel and reducing issues like slippage during daily activities.
Choosing the Right Dentures & Partial Dentures in Shelby Township
Many patients are curious about which is the “better” denture: traditional dentures that rest on the gums or implant-supported dentures that are secured in the jawbone. Both have benefits and drawbacks, so our dental team will be happy to explain the details to help you determine which is best for your needs.
At our practice, we are committed to creating customized dental care for every patient. This means that before each treatment, we invite you to schedule a consultation, during which we can answer any questions and gain your input to understand your needs and preferences better.
Call Us Today to Restore Your Smile and Your Confidence!
At McKinley-Holloway Legacy Dentistry, we make smiles sparkle, and with your input, we can craft a denture design that will have you smiling in no time!
Dr. Brittany McKinley-Holloway and her team proudly serve the Michigan communities of Shelby Township, Macomb, Clinton Township, and many more. Call us at (586) 684-1543 if you have any questions about partial or full dentures. We also offer dental implants, same-day crowns, family dentistry, and an in-house membership plan!