Whether you’re facing decay, gum disease, or other oral health problems, your dentist may have suggested dentures as the best treatment option. There are two types of dentures —  complete and partial — and each style has its own purposes and benefits. When discussing the options with your dentist, consider the differences below.

What Are Partial Dentures?

A partial denture is a removable set of false teeth than fills in gaps you may have in your smile. These dental appliances do not replace all of your teeth, but rather any areas where one or more are missing. It’s typically pink in color and can be made with acrylic and metal. Partial dentures are suitable for individuals who still have healthy teeth but need a false solution to fix a few teeth that have been lost to decay or trauma.

When you have teeth missing in certain areas of your mouth, other teeth can shift to try and fill this gap. If this occurs, you may face issues with your bite, difficulty chewing, or even jaw pain. Partial dentures offer a quick and inexpensive solution that looks natural and perfects your smile.

What Are Complete Dentures?

If your oral health has deteriorated more severely, your dentist may recommend a complete set of dentures as the best solution to fix your smile. Full denture sets are used when healthy teeth no longer remain or cannot be restored.

Similar to a partial set, complete dentures are made of acrylic and will match the color of your gums. With full dentures, the upper set covers the roof of your mouth, while the bottom is shaped like a horseshoe and will fit to accommodate your tongue. Full dentures will be custom-fit to ensure they are both comfortable and functional for your needs. If you have any natural teeth remaining, your dentist will need to extract them to make room for the dentures.

If you’re ready to take control of your dental health and learn more about denture options, talk to the team at High Point Smile Dentistry in Guilford County, NC. The dentists on staff are highly skilled in a variety of different procedures, whether you need a simple teeth cleaning or require more extensive treatment like dentures or tooth extractions. To learn more about how this team can help you improve the health of your smile, visit them online or call (336) 884-4000 to schedule an appointment today.