The classic solution to missing teeth, dentures maintain facial structure while making it easy to speak and chew with confidence. They offer a natural look and feel and come in fixed and removable options. Take a moment to learn the benefits of each before discussing possibilities with your dentist.

Removable Dentures

Removable dentures provide a solution for dental patients with severe oral health problems. If the jaw bone is not strong enough to support implants, they are your best option. While slippage and gum soreness used to be an issue with these type of devices due to ill fit, modern improvements have been made in adhesives and with the prosthetics themselves to create a more comfortable experience. That said, they do require extra cleaning and care.

Because removable dentures are not grounded in the jaw, they do not require an extensive dental procedure. They also tend to be less costly than their fixed counterparts. However, over time, they can subtly change the shape of the face and further contribute to bone loss in the mouth. 

Fixed Dentures

With fixed dentures, the prosthetics are often secured to the mouth with the support of dental implants. This requires minor oral surgery to place the implants in the gum tissue and cap them with crowns. However, afterward, they will look and feel like real teeth, so you can talk, smile, and taste food normally. They also stimulate and support gum and bone tissue to maintain facial structure and better oral health.

You care for them in the same way as regular teeth—with twice daily brushing and flossing. And if you do so properly, this investment can last a lifetime.

No matter which type of dentures is right for your needs, count on the dentists at Peter A. McIntyre, DDS, PC to provide the right solution. The Colorado Springs, CO, family dentistry office has served the region since 1987 and offers a full suite of dental services as well as customized preventative maintenance programs. Call (719) 475-2511 today to make an appointment or visit the website for more about restorative dentistry.