Complete Denture Overview

Complete Denture

Overview

A complete denture, also known as a full denture, is a type of artificial replacement for missing natural teeth. It consists of a gum-colored base and artificial teeth, held in place by suction or the shape of the gums and surrounding tissues. The goal of a complete denture is to restore functionality and aesthetics to the oral cavity, enabling the user to eat, speak, and smile comfortably.

Materials

Modern complete dentures are usually made from various types of heat-resistant plastic, such as polycarbonates or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). These materials offer advantages like ease of manipulation, bondability, and a wide range of color options, ensuring accuracy in shaping and contouring the dentures to mimic natural teeth.

Impressions

Impressions are taken from the mouth of the patient to create a replica or model of the oral structures, including the gums, bones, and remaining teeth. Two types of impressions are commonly used for complete dentures: direct and indirect. Direct impressions are taken immediately inside the mouth using dental putty, whereas indirect impressions require the use of a dental tray filled with an impression material and left in the mouth for several seconds.

Occlusion

Occlusion refers to the arrangement of the upper and lower rows of teeth when they come together in biting or chewing actions. Balanced occlusion ensures that the forces of mastication are distributed evenly across the entire length of the tooth structure, reducing the risk of developing temporomandibular joint disorders. To achieve balanced occlusion, specific techniques may be employed, such as adjusting the vertical dimension of the teeth, modifying the inclination angle, or altering the position of the front teeth.

Fitting

Once the dentures are fabricated, they need to be fitted properly to ensure they provide maximum comfort, retention, and stability. During the fitting process, the dentist checks for proper alignment, occlusal equilibrium, and esthetic expectations, making necessary adjustments with specialized tools. Some common adjustments may include trimming the edges, adding tissue conditioners, or padding the undersurface of the denture.

Adjustments

Over time, the wearer may notice some discomfort or loose feeling of the dentures. This could be due to changes in the oral anatomy, such as tissue shrinkage or bone resorption, which require periodic adjustments to maintain proper fit. Regular check-ups with a dental professional are recommended for monitoring these changes and ensuring the dentures remain functional and comfortable.

In summary, complete dentures play a significant role in restoring functionality and aesthetics to people who have lost their natural teeth. The process involves careful selection of materials, precise impressions, balancing occlusion, accurate fitting, and regular adjustments to maintain optimal performance.