Ever wanted to replace your missing teeth, but can’t afford implants?
Cost of living is harder than ever right now – but dentures (false teeth) can be an amazing, rapid and cost effective way to replace missing teeth.
- Procedure: Dentures can be fitted regardless of how much bone is present. An impression of the gums is taken, and a preliminary set of dentures is made. Adjustments are made for optimal chewing and speech before the final set is produced.
- Comfort and Maintenance: Dentures are typically supported by your gums and teeth. Unlike implants, no surgery is required!
- Time: Dentures can be made in a few weeks, whereas implants may take months to be completed. For urgent cases, dentures can be constructed even faster!
What are the two main tyres of false teeth available?
There are two kinds of dentures – acrylic (plastic) or metal frame dentures.
- Acrylic Partial Dentures:
- Material: Acrylic partial dentures are made from acrylic resin or plastic. This material closely resembles the natural color of the gums.
- Construction: They consist of an acrylic base and replacement teeth, which are attached with clear or metal clasps.
- Pros:
- Affordable: Acrylic partial dentures are less expensive compared to metal ones.
- Adjustable: Due to the flexible material, they can be easily adjusted and relined.
- Quicker Process: Creating acrylic dentures is relatively faster than making metal dentures. They can serve as a temporary solution while waiting for implants or metal dentures.
- Cons:
- Bulkier: The acrylic base needs to be thicker to provide strength, which can make chewing and speaking challenging initially.
- Metal Partial Dentures:
- Material: Metal partial dentures are made from metal alloys – the silver colour is usually well hidden.
- Construction: They are smaller & lighter than acrylic dentures, and attach to existing teeth using metal clasps.
- Pros:
- Durability: Metal dentures are stronger and more resistant to damage.
- Better Fit: They provide a precise fit and better stability.
- Long-Term Support: Metal dentures can last longer.
- Cons:
- Costly: Metal dentures are more expensive due to their superior quality – but long term are more comfortable and last longer.
- Less Adjustability: Once fabricated, adjustments are more challenging compared to acrylic dentures.