A removable prosthesis is a dental appliance used to restore teeth that have been broken or lost. This method is cost-effective, quick to apply, and helps improve both chewing function and aesthetics. Wondering what a removable denture is and whether it’s the right option for tooth restoration? Check out the information in the article below!
What are removable dentures?
Removable denture is a quick and simple tooth restoration method used to replace missing teeth. It consists of two main parts: the artificial gum, made from flexible or hard acrylic, and the false teeth, which are made from porcelain or metal. These two components are combined into a unified structure to serve as a replacement for the missing teeth.
When classified by structure, there are two common types of detachable dentures: partial dentures and full dentures.
- Partial denture: This type of denture is designed for cases where one or several teeth are missing. The partial denture is custom-made to fit the specific areas where teeth have been lost.
- Full denture: This type has a structure similar to natural teeth, with a gum-colored base that covers the entire gum area and 12 to 14 artificial teeth mounted on top. Full dentures are used in cases where all teeth are missing or only a few natural teeth remain in the dental arch.
Should I use removable dentures?
Many people wonder whether they should choose removable dentures for replacing missing teeth. It’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of this method in order to make the most suitable decision.
Advantages
- Safe material: Removable dentures are made from acrylic resin, which is safe for the body and biocompatible with the oral environment. Acrylic adapts quickly to the mouth, causes minimal irritation to soft tissues, and allows the denture to adhere securely to the natural teeth.
- Low cost: Compared to other tooth restoration methods, removable dental prosthetics are more affordable, making them a cost-saving option for patients.
- Simple procedure: The process of fitting and removing removable prosthesis is quick and straightforward, with minimal impact on the surrounding tissues.
- Suitable for the elderly: This method does not require strong overall health or jawbone condition, making it a good option for older adults.
- Minimally invasive: The use of removable denture does not affect surrounding tissues and gums, making the procedure safe and easy to perform.
- Moderate chewing function: Removable denture can maintain chewing ability for about 3 to 5 years, depending on the level of bone resorption.
Disadvantages
- Bone resorption and damage: Wearing detachable dentures applies pressure to the jaw during chewing, which may lead to bone damage. Prolonged use can result in bone loss, gum recession, sunken cheeks, and compromised facial aesthetics.
- Inconvenience: The full denture fitted onto the jaw can gradually become loose or widened over time. This may lead to discomfort, bad breath, and difficulty maintaining proper oral hygiene.
- Short lifespan: Removable denture typically lasts 3 to 5 years, offering limited durability. They are not considered a long-term solution.
- Potential side effects: Removable dental appliances are not the preferred choice for tooth restoration, as they can lead to bone resorption, impact adjacent teeth, and often fail to provide the desired chewing efficiency.
Who should use removable dentures?
According to dental specialists, removable dentures are a traditional tooth restoration method with several limitations. Therefore, they are recommended mainly for those seeking a cost-effective solution for missing teeth, or for elderly individuals who have lost all their teeth and are not suitable candidates for dental crowns or implant placement due to oral health conditions.
This method should only be used as a temporary solution while waiting for the right conditions to proceed with permanent tooth replacement. It is not recommended for all cases of tooth loss.
Which type of removable dentures is good?
Currently, removable dentures are divided into two types, each with its own distinct features and functions.
Removable plastic dentures
Removable plastic dentures are divided into two types: standard plastic and flexible plastic. Standard plastic dentures are low-cost and easy to fabricate, but they are often not highly rated due to their looseness and potential to cause issues such as bad breath, gum irritation, difficulty in chewing, periodontal problems, and jawbone resorption.
Flexible plastic dentures offer better stability and fit closely to the gums thanks to their adaptable design, reducing looseness. However, they can feel bulky in the mouth and may cause discomfort or an unnatural chewing experience.
Removable dentures with metal frames
Metal frame dentures are suitable for partial tooth loss. The metal framework is designed to fit tightly against the natural teeth, offering high durability and minimizing the risk of slipping. However, since the denture is anchored to the remaining teeth, it can create tension, leading to discomfort, tooth pain, and increased risk of loosening or tooth loss over time.
Procedure for removable dentures
The process of making removable denture is carried out safely, following all essential steps:
- Step 1: Examination and consultation with the dentist
- Step 2: Take dental impressions
- Step 3: Fitting the denture
- Step 4: Care instructions and follow-up appointment
Step 1: Examination and consultation with the dentist
A dental specialist will conduct a thorough examination to assess the structure of the missing teeth and evaluate the overall condition. Based on this, the dentist will propose the most suitable restoration solution. They will also explain the advantages and disadvantages of removable dentures to help the patient make an informed decision.
Step 2: Take dental impressions
The dentist takes dental impressions and records details such as tooth size and color to create a removable dental appliance that fits accurately and matches the patient’s natural appearance.
Step 3: Fitting the denture
The dentist uses specialized tools to clean the oral cavity before fitting the denture. They then check and evaluate the overall fit and compatibility to ensure proper bite alignment and comfort during chewing.
Step 4: Care instructions and follow-up appointment
The dentist will provide guidance on proper diet and oral hygiene after the denture is fitted. At the same time, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled to monitor the condition and detect any potential issues early on.
How much do removable dentures cost?
Currently, the cost of getting a removable denture in Vietnam is relatively affordable, typically ranging from $50 to $200 depending on the type. The final price is determined by factors such as the condition of the teeth, the type of denture selected, and the dental clinic chosen by the patient.
It is recommended to choose reputable dental clinics that use safe technologies to ensure high-quality results when restoring teeth with removable dentures.
Shark Dental – A trusted destination for dental restorations in Vietnam
To restore missing teeth with detachable dentures, patients can turn to Shark Dental – one of the leading and most trusted dental brands in Vietnam.
The clinic features a well-equipped, modern infrastructure with state-of-the-art machinery. All procedures are carried out in sterilized treatment rooms, ensuring high standards of hygiene and exceptional service quality.
The dentists at Shark Dental are dedicated and highly qualified. Depending on each case, they conduct thorough examinations and assessments to apply removable denture restorations safely and effectively.
In addition to restoring teeth with removable dental prosthetics, Shark Dental also offers dental bridge and implant technologies, which can be applied in various cases of tooth loss.
Tooth restoration at Shark Dental is reasonably priced, offers high-quality service, and includes a warranty policy to ensure peace of mind for patients.
All information about removable dentures has been thoroughly shared in this article. Customers can visit Shark Dental to receive safe tooth restoration treatments and soon enjoy a perfect smile.
