The Four Types of Dentures. Part I of a 4-Part Series

There are four different types dentures: standard, immediate, implant-retained and Cu-Sil partial dentures. In Part I of this series, we’ll be discussing standard dentures.

Standard dentures can take as many as four visits to complete. The first appointment consists of an oral examination, sometimes x-rays and a set of impressions of the upper and lower gums or edentulous. These impressions are poured with plaster to form accurate models of the shape of the edentulous ridges and to determine the shade, size and shape of the teeth that will be placed on the new dentures. In special cases, surgery might be warranted to remove tissue or alter bone that will interfere with the stability of the denture.

The second appointment determines the length of the new teeth themselves. The horizontal plane of the teeth should be parallel to the horizontal plane between the pupils of the eyes. During this visit, the line up of the bite is measured using a loose-fitting denture base and rim of wax to approximate the position of the teeth. Not only is the ability to chew correctly affected by this measurement, but also the ability to speak correctly. Once the correct relationships are determined, the rims are sent to the lab where they’re used to fabricate the “wax-try-in,” a loosely fitting tray with the actual final plastic teeth embedded in wax so that adjustments can still be made.  

Appointment No. 3 is where the wax-try-in is tried on. This gives the opportunity to see how the denture looks and works before committing the teeth to a permanent setup. At this time, if the teeth look too long, or the patient clicks when talking, or the midline is wrong, etc. the denture can still be adjusted.

The fourth appointment is where the final denture is inserted. At this stage, the teeth have been embedded in permanent plastic. Although the teeth are no longer adjustable, tiny adjustments can be made to accommodate fit and comfort of the denture over the gum.

For questions about dentures, dental implants, periodontal disease, call The Ferber Dental Group a 561-439-8888 or visit http://www.ferberdental.com.