Anyone who has experienced tooth loss knows that teeth not only play an important role in our physical health, but in our social and emotional health, too. Dentures from The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry in Skokie, IL, offer teeth replacement options when patients suffer from tooth loss due to extraction, decay, or trauma. When discussing dentures, it is important to know the difference between the two most common types: partial vs. full dentures. Below, learn which option could help you restore a full, radiant smile in just a few appointments with Drs. Abraham Stein or Zachary Weiss.
Looking for dentures near Skokie, IL? We offer restorative treatment in a comfortable, high-tech practice located in central Skokie. Our team would love to meet you, and learn how we can help you achieve the firm bite and natural-looking smile you desire. Contact us to set up an appointment at (847) 676-3500.
Tooth Replacements to Fit Your Smile
For many people, the word “dentures” brings to mind poorly-fitted, over-sized plastic plates. However, awkward, slipping, and unnatural-looking dentures are a thing of the past. This tooth replacement treatment has dramatically changed over the years to provide a reliable, functional, and aesthetic teeth replacement treatment.
For patients with partial or complete teeth loss, full, partial, or implant-supported dentures make it possible to regain a full, beautiful smile. While implant dentures are a more stable restorative treatment option for select patients, we’ll be taking a closer look at the variances between two more traditional denture options offered at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry: partials and full dentures.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures, often called “partials,” are removable tooth replacement appliances that offer smile restoration for patients who have one or more missing adjacent teeth. Unlike full dentures, described below, partials require patients have at least one or more remaining teeth on the top and bottom jaws. The artificial teeth, built onto a gum-colored plastic plate, is firmly attached to one or more remaining teeth by metal or plastic connectors. Depending on a patient’s unique restoration needs, Drs. Stein or Weiss may choose one of several designs of partial dentures to offer the most comfortable and stable restoration. In some cases, the dentist increases the stability of remaining supportive teeth by placing a dental crown for added strength.
The Benefits of Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are best for patients who have gum tissue or bone tissue loss from periodontal disease, and cannot easily receive dental implants. They also appeal to patients who want to be able to remove the appliance for easy at-home cleaning. However, partial dentures do not last long; on average, these appliances need to be replaced every five years. This can be a significant drawback for patients who are looking for a long-lasting solution.
Full Dentures
Full or “complete”, dentures traditionally have a pink-colored plastic plate (to match your natural gum tissues’ color) that fits comfortably over the surface of the top and bottom gums. Acrylic false teeth are firmly attached to each plate to mimic a natural row of teeth. When smiling and speaking, the smile is very natural-looking. Suction and dental adhesives keep dentures in place during use throughout the day. Most patients find they can eat and drink fairly normally with complete dentures, while simply avoiding certain tough or sticky foods.
The Benefits of Full Dentures
For patients desiring full teeth replacement who cannot support dental implants due to bone loss, full dentures are a great option. Full dentures can last anywhere five to 10 years, and restore much of a patient’s eating and chewing abilities after extensive tooth loss. This can greatly increase the patient’s confidence levels after the devastating effects of widespread tooth loss, and can improve digestion and speaking ability. Additionally, full dentures, like partials, offer easy cleaning; full dentures are removed at night for a deep clean, and can also be quickly cleaned after meals.
Custom-Fit Dentures in Skokie, IL
Whether you have suffered from partial or complete teeth loss, schedule your consultation with Dr. Abraham Stein or Dr. Zachary Weiss to receive custom-fit, genuine-looking dentures that restore your smile to its full potential. Do not let tooth loss keep you from eating or talking confidently. Call us today!