Complete dentures are full-coverage oral prosthetic devices that replace a complete arch of missing teeth. Complete dentures are typically made out of modern high density plastic materials, including the teeth. There are various materials used such as acrylic, lucitone, valplast.
Generally complete dentures are used for old patients but they may be used also for young patients with congenitally missing teeth, patients with early loss of teeth because of periodontal or other systemic diseases.
For resorbed ridges, implant supported complete dentures can also be made.
Complete dentures take support of the bone of the alveolar ridge and soft tissues.Various factors such as cheek musculature, frenal attachments, irregularities in bone etc. are taken into consideration while fabrication of denture.Teeth shape, size, shade are selected taking into account various factors like complexion, facial height, patient’s choice etc.
Complete dentures are made after 4-6 weeks of extraction of teeth after the bone healing is complete and takes about 5-6 visits to the Dentist for the different steps in its fabrication. It may take about 10-15 days for the denture to be made. Regular follow up visits should be done.
Complete dentures help to restore the facial contours, aesthetics, helps in improving chewing of food and also speech and prevents bone loss. It thus improves overall health of patient and boosts confidence too.
Complete dentures have to be cleaned regularly after every meal and have to be changed after a few years as soon as it gets worn off so the purpose for which it is used is maintained.