Patients of Charlottesville, Virginia, who are faced with tooth loss may find that they are dealing with feeling self-conscious about their appearance and the inability to eat effectively or speak clearly. When tooth loss has occurred, working with a dental professional to restore the smile is vital. Dr. Daniel Bearley and his skilled dental team at Bearley Dental can help patients learn about smile restoration options, including full and partial dentures.

What are the types of dentures used to replace missing teeth?

When it comes to false and artificial teeth, patients have a few different options to choose from. For dentures, there are three types:

• Partial dentures – the partial denture is a removable oral appliance. The framework is made of metal and snaps around the remaining teeth in the smile. False teeth are placed where they are needed to restore the function and appearance of the smile.

• Full dentures – complete dentures are used when patients lose all their teeth in the upper or lower dental arch. Full dentures are acrylic appliances that include all the false teeth and gum tissue.  On the top they are held in place by a natural suction that occurs between the denture and the palatal tissue to allow them to stay in the mouth and function.  On the bottom there is no natural suction and they slide around.  This is where having implants can improve the retention and function of a lower denture.

• Implant-supported dentures – last but not least are implant-supported dentures. These dentures are retained or supported by implants. They are much more conservative than traditional full dentures and use several dental implants along the dental arch to snap into place. Implant-supported dentures are the most robust options and are sometimes chosen by patients who want to maintain natural bone or utilize a restoration that functions at its best.

Are you considering artificial teeth to replace lost ones?

If you are considering the types of dentures and other tooth replacement options available to you for restoring the smile, we strongly encourage you to take time to speak to an experienced dental provider in Charlottesville, VA, who can provide solutions. Dr. Daniel Bearley and his team at Bearley Dental routinely work with patients to help new and established patients with their oral healthcare needs and provide full or partial dentures. Call (434) 443-8034 to request a visit to our practice at 901 Preston Avenue, Suite #200.