Dentures

The types of dentures may be divided into two larger groups: fixed and removable dentures. Additionally it is possible to make combined dentures where only part of the denture is removable.

Removable partial dentures can be taken out of the mouth

This type of denture is used for restoration of several teeth, but only in cases where the patient has enough supporting teeth left. The advantage of a removable partial denture is that it is held in place by clasps that fit onto nearby teeth. There are also parts of the denture framework called rests that also distribute chewing force to the remaining teeth.

Full (complete) dentures have to be made when natural teeth are completely missing

Dental implants are increasingly used in order to secure full dentures.

Fixed dentures may be secured to natural teeth as well as dental implants. Fixed dentures are frequently used to restore individual teeth or to rebuild sets of teeth.

Preparation of fixed dentures requires high precision to enable good fitting, and the dentures have to be cemented using special cement that survives in the oral environment.