Estimates suggest that 45 million Americans currently wear full or partial dentures. These prosthetic devices can close gaps in your smile, restore function, and improve your oral health. If you or a loved one is looking at full or partial dentures, you will need accurate information to make the best decision about how to proceed. The following Q and A will provide the basics about dentures.

Why do I need to replace missing teeth with dentures?
Even one lost tooth can create oral health problems such as shifting, uneven wear, and bone degeneration.

What is the difference between full and partial dentures?
Constructed from tooth-colored materials and placed on a gum-colored base, full dentures replace all the teeth on one or both arches. If you have remaining teeth, a partial denture can fill in the open spaces left by missing teeth. Partial dentures are held in place by inconspicuous metal clasps, while full dentures are secured with adhesives, suction, or implant posts.

Will everyone know I have dentures?
Advances in materials and technology allow your dentist to design a custom prosthetic that looks and feels similar to your natural teeth. After an adjustment period, most denture wearers find that they can eat the foods they love and smile with renewed confidence.

How do I care for my dentures?
With the right treatment, your dentures should provide years of beautiful smiles. Make sure you remove the device at night, soak your appliance in a cleaning solution, and store the denture in a secure location when it’s not in your mouth. If you need an adjustment or think something has broken, contact your dentist immediately. Attempting to fix your dentures at home could lead to further damage and additional expenses.