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THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COMPLETE, PARTIAL, AND IMPLANT SUPPORTED DENTURES

Having to replace missing teeth can be a stressful experience. You might worry about the cost, the discomfort, or about making the right decision for your dental health. This doesn’t have to be the case though, especially if you’re informed on the matter.




If you’re in a situation where you’re choosing between complete dentures, partial dentures or implant supported dentures, keep reading to learn more about each to help you make a choice that’s best for you.





Complete Dentures

Complete dentures are removable dental prostheses that offer a non-surgical way to replace missing teeth when all of the teeth on an arch are missing. They consist of a set of prosthetics that simply rest on your gum line. To make these, your denturist will take an impression of your mouth, then carefully craft your set of custom-made dentures.





Partial Dentures

Similar to complete dentures, partial dentures are removable, prosthetic teeth created from an impression of your mouth and then crafted for a custom fit. Partial dentures are used when you need to only replace some, but not all, of your natural teeth.


Partial dentures are typically attached to cast metal or gum-coloured plastic frameworks that connect to a clasp or clasps attached to your natural teeth to hold the dentures in place. Occasionally, crowns may need to be placed on the remaining natural teeth to offer a more secure fit for your dentures, anchoring them more comfortably in your mouth.


Implant Supported Dentures

In some circumstances, if you have a sufficient amount of bone in your jaw remaining after losing your teeth, then implant supported dentures are an option that can be considered. With these types of dentures, two or more implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone, which then hold your dentures in place.


Worth noting is that having implant supported dentures typically involves at least two separate procedures: one to insert the implants, then another to properly fit the dentures once the implants have fused with your jawbone. While these are typically a more costly option for dentures, they can also be the most secure and natural-feeling solution to replacing lost teeth.





Which One Is Right For Me?


Your denturist will help you determine which type of dentures is right for you, but on your own part, you can take into consideration the following:

  • The number of teeth you are missing. 

  • The total cost of each solution (also consider whether or not your costs will be covered by insurance).

  • Your age and overall dental health.

For more information about the different types of tooth replacement options, visit Kafka Denture Clinic in Abbotsford today. Our friendly, knowledgeable denturist can help you decide which option will best suit your needs. Contact us to learn more about our services, or to schedule a free consultation!

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