Westmont Dentist | Dentures and Partial Dentures

When a patient is missing all or just several teeth, we discuss the option of dentures or partial dentures. While this is the easiest option to replace a tooth and possibly the least expensive, we will also discuss the option that includes dental implants for a more natural feeling restoration to improve your chewing and lip support.

Kathryn Kennedy, DDS in Westmont, IL does both dentures and partial dentures. A denture is basically an acrylic tissue-colored material with either porcelain or plastic teeth on it to replace missing teeth. A partial is basically either acrylic or a metal framework with acrylic on it to replace a section of missing teeth. The advantage of these is that they can be done fairly quickly and help with chewing, esthetics and speech.

When multiple teeth are removed, the bone often dissolves away since it is not being stimulated and as it shrinks, the face can also start to ‘cave-in’ in that area, giving a look that gaunt appearance.

A denture or partial denture can offer both cheek and lip support in a way that a crown or bridge may not. If a patient needs to increase the vertical dimension of their bite due to severe bone loss, then a denture can offer that very easily.

In a few cases, there isn’t enough bone to stabilize a denture or a partial, or the patient may want something a little more “permanent”. In those cases, we can step up to the next level with dental implants and a connector called a “locator” that snaps the denture or partial in place and gives ease of cleaning along with much more stability. This is called an implant supported denture.

The next level of securing a denture or what we often refer to as a hybrid denture, which has a metal substructure with a denture or even just porcelain teeth on it, that is screwed into dental implants spread along the jaw to support and stabilize the bite. This is called a fixed implant secured hybrid denture.

When you are missing teeth, you will want to chat with a dentist who has additional training to give you the best options for your oral health as well as your budget. If you live in the DuPage area of Illinois, you should contact Dr. Kathryn Kennedy in Westmont, IL to review your options and help you make the best decision for your dental needs.