Indianapolis, IN area dentist describes the benefits of partial and full dentures for smile restoration

At Washington Street Dentistry in Indianapolis, IN, patients can ask Dr. Matthew Church, our dentist, about the benefits of restorations used to replace missing teeth. In many cases, patients may benefit from partial or full dentures.

Understanding dentures

Dentures have come a long way over the years. When patients think of dentures, they often picture their grandparent’s false teeth. However, dentures come in a variety of types, and are far more desirable than they used to be. Dentures include a few different types:

• Partial dentures
• Full dentures
• Implant-supported dentures

Partial dentures

The type of denture used to replace one or several teeth within a dental arch is the partial denture. Partial dentures are popular because they are an economical way of dealing with missing teeth. They can be easily removed by the patient for simple cleaning and care, which is one of the primary benefits they provide. These restorations include a metal framework that snaps into place within the dental arch and allows false teeth to slide into the gaps as a repair. Patients can restore their chewing, biting, and speaking abilities when using partial dentures.

Full dentures

An option for patients who are missing all the teeth within the arch is the full denture. Full dentures are used when patients have lost all the teeth or have a few remaining that they expect to have extracted to prepare for full dentures. These are acrylic restorations that include false teeth and artificial gum tissue. They are often held in place using natural suction or denture adhesives.

Implant-supported dentures

Patients struggling with keeping full dentures in place may want to ask their dentist about the benefits of using implant-supported dentures. Implant-supported dentures are like traditional full dentures, yet they work together with dental implants that have been placed along the dental arch. These implants are made of titanium and provide stability and strength for the dentures to keep them firmly in place. Dr. Matthew Church finds that patients with enough bone structure in the jaw may be considered proper candidates for implant-supported dentures.

Which solution is best for me?

It is important that patients understand that there is no single solution that fits every patient’s situation. It is encouraged that patients pick up the phone and contact Washington Street Dentistry to book a consultation appointment. This is the perfect opportunity to discuss solutions with a professional and decide which option is most appropriate. Dr. Matthew Church offers a cleaning, examination, and a consultation on tooth replacement options.

What alternatives are available?

Patients who want an alternative to dentures will want to ask their dentist about solutions that are available. In addition to dentures, we offer dental implants and dental bridges. Dental bridges are porcelain restorations that are custom-made for a patient and use the adjacent teeth to anchor them in place. These are best for replacing one or more teeth in a row in a fast yet more permanent manner than removable partial dentures. The other solution is dental implants. While sometimes used in conjunction with full dentures, they are also great as a stand-alone restoration for a single tooth. Dental implants are costly, but they can last a lifetime, holding value better than any other restoration available in the dental office today. Discussing these options with your dentist is the best way to learn more!

How do I know if I’m a candidate for dentures?

Most patients are appropriate candidates for dentures, while other dental restorations may have certain prerequisites such as enough bone or surrounding teeth for anchoring. Partial dentures and full dentures can be used on nearly anyone, though it is important for patients to address any concerns such as periodontal disease or tooth decay before moving forward with long-term tooth replacement options.

Discover the benefits of dentures!

Contact Dr. Matthew Church and his team at Washington Street Dentistry by calling (317) 333-6788 for an appointment. Our professionals are readily available at 10935 East Washington Street in Indianapolis, IN and welcome new patients.

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