Removable Prosthetics
Not every option for replacing missing or damaged teeth has to involve an invasive procedure. Removable dental prosthetics, also known as dentures, allow patients to restore their smile in a cost effective, noninvasive manner.
Dr. Aldo Leopardi, a cosmetic dentist and Denver Prosthodontist, recommends removable prosthetics for patients who are in need of replacing multiple missing teeth. This procedure is typically recommended for patients who are concerned with the cost of dental treatment or those who prefer a noninvasive solution for missing/damaged teeth.
What are Removable Prosthetics?
Removable prosthetics, dentures for short, are a type of dental device that is designed to replace multiple missing or severely damaged teeth. Unlike some dental devices, which are permanently secured in the mouth with the use of an implant or adjacent teeth, removable dentures can be taken out at will.
The actual removable prosthetic device looks like a small plate or frame. On the top of the plate or frame are artificial teeth. The entire set of dentures is uniquely designed to securely fit inside the patient’s mouth without any pain or discomfort.
There are two types of removable dental dentures. First type is a complete denture, which is created to replace all of the teeth in a patient’s mouth. The second option is a partial denture, which is designed to only replace a small section of teeth. With this type of denture, you will have some of your natural teeth and artificial teeth.
Reasons to Consider Removable Prosthetics
The costs involved with the procedure, the type of procedure required, and the ease of use are all reasons why people consider removable dental prosthetics.
Specific reasons why people consider removable dental prosthetics include:
- Cost – removable dentures are often a fraction of the cost of dental implants
- Flexibility to add teeth – occasionally removable dentures can have additional teeth added on, which allows patients to customize their dentures should the need arise to replace other missing teeth
- Ability to save natural teeth – partial dentures allow patients to keep some of their natural teeth
- Non-invasive procedure – no surgery is required for removable dentures if teeth are currently missing
The Disadvantages of Removable Prosthetics
Even though removable dentures may be cost effective and the procedure may be non-invasive, there are still some disadvantages associated with this type of dental procedure.
Some disadvantages associated with removable prosthetics, or removable dentures, include:
- Adjustment period – there is a small adjustment period needed to get used to the feel of removable dentures
- Maintenance – removable dentures last a long time, but you may need to replace them over time as your mouth may change shape or your teeth may shift or the materials the denture is constructed from wear and breakdown
- Plaque buildup – removable dentures sometimes leads to plaque buildup which can cause natural teeth to decay
- Bone loss
- Dentures must be taken out at night
Removable dentures may or may not be the best solution for you. It is important to discuss your options with an experienced Prosthodontist like Dr. Leopardi. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation to discuss what tooth replacement options might be right for you.
