Dentures are a (usually) removable replacement for missing teeth and tissue.

There are a number of different types of dentures. They can be made of a flexible plastic, metal, acrylic, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. You and your Prosthodontist will work together to determine which option is right for you:

Complete Dentures — are manufactured teeth which are attached to a removable base that rests on the gums, after all teeth have been removed.

• The stability of complete dentures can be enhanced by attaching dentures to dental implants.
• Overdentures rest on teeth that are filed down to the gum.

Partial Dentures — are manufactured teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base, which sits over the gums only where teeth are missing. In addition to filling in for missing teeth, the bridge also keeps other teeth from moving.

• The “Fixed Bridge” is a partial denture that places crowns on teeth that are adjacent to the space and then uses a metal clasp to attach the manufactured teeth to adjacent crowns. This bridge is then cemented into place.
• A “precision partial” has internal attachments that attach to the adjacent crowns, rather than the metal clasps, so the bridge looks more natural.

Immediate Dentures — Dentures that are placed the same day that your teeth are removed. They are made in advance, and so they require more adjustments to fit properly, since the gums shrink a bit after the teeth are pulled. Immediate dentures are usually considered a temporary fix rather than a permanent solution.

Conventional Dentures — are usually ready after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, a process that can take 2-3 months after the teeth have been removed.

Dr. Keith Phillips has years of expertise in the art and science of creating well-fitting, attractive dentures. We use state of the art computer technology to ensure your teeth fit with precision and comfort. Dr. Phillips was recognized by SeattleMet as a “Top Dentist in Prosthodontics,” voted on by his peers, from 2011 – 2016. Give us a call and we will have you looking your best in no time at all. (253) 922-6822.

Part 2: What are the Pros and Cons of Getting Dentures? Click Here
Part 3: Why should I see a Prosthodontist for dentures? Click Here