Immediate Dentures vs Conventional Dentures

Dentures are used to replace missing teeth, but two types of dentures can be used to do this: immediate dentures (also known as temporary dentures) and conventional dentures. Both kinds of dentures are durable and stable, but which one is right for you depends on your situation and how fast you need your tooth replacement to be done. Read below to learn more about the differences between immediate dentures and conventional dentures, so you can make an informed decision about which one will work best for you.

Types of dentures

Temporary dentures are ready-made, complete sets of replacement teeth that can be placed in your mouth immediately after they’re fabricated. The two main types of dentures are partial dentures and complete upper and lower denture sets. If you have a full set of natural teeth, a complete set may fit right over them without any additional adjustments or changes.

Complete upper and lower denture sets replace all your natural teeth in both arches. Partial dentures are used to replace a few missing teeth. They’re anchored onto existing teeth or a dental implant if there are no teeth to anchor them to. A partial denture may be used to replace either one or several missing teeth, depending on its type and your needs. If you have only one tooth that’s been lost, a single-tooth replacement is your best option.

Denture materials

There are four main types of denture materials. These include metal, plastic, resin-based, and acrylic. Each material has its pros and cons, depending on how you want your dentures to fit and perform. Dentures tend to use a metallic alloy for rigidity and strength; conventional dentures can use more malleable materials like plastic or soft porcelain-based material for an easier fitting process.

Resin-based dentures are made of a hard plastic material that is less rigid and fitting than metal, but they can last longer if they aren’t worn long-term as they’re not so resistant to food staining. Acrylic-based materials have similar properties to resin-based materials and are more malleable, making them more easily fit into mouth shapes. Temporary dentures tend not to use acrylic as it doesn’t hold up well with time compared to resin, which can be kept looking good for around five years before replacing your denture or repainting it.

When are dentures needed?

Immediate dentures are needed when your teeth are missing, but you still have a good amount of gum and jawbone. If you have partial dentures, your dentist will tell you when to replace them with temporary dentures or full dentures. You should also consider getting dentures if your gums and jawbone deteriorate to where they won’t support any dental appliance.

There are other scenarios where dentures can be beneficial. For example, if you have a loose partial denture or a loose set of teeth in front that keeps slipping out, dentures can help keep those teeth from moving around. You’ll also need to get dentures if you have periodontal disease and either lose all your natural teeth or have no option but to remove them all.

It's time to call your dentist

If you've been considering your options for dentures, there has never been a better time to call. Your dentist can evaluate your current condition and outline all of your possible treatment options. It is important to find the solution that fits your lifestyle so that you can live life on your terms. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.viewparkdental.com or call View Park Dental at (310) 589-3147 for an appointment in our Los Angeles office.

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