Lake Orion area benefits from comfortable, natural-looking types of dentures

Dentures as a treatment are older than you may realize. Wealthy 8th century Italian people filled their gaps with teeth from another person or animals such as oxen. A band made of gold and metal was attached to remaining natural teeth. This contraption broke down quickly, but human teeth and animal bone remained the materials of choice until around the 18th century when porcelain was first used. Metals were introduced in the 19th century. Acrylic resin and other plastics followed in the 1900s.

While today’s dentures are made from many of the materials mentioned above, there are thankfully more types of dentures to fit your specific needs and wants comfortably and securely.

The type of material used depends on the type of denture customized to your mouth. For example, partial dentures generally include a plastic-covered metal base with plastic teeth. Complete dentures are generally made with a gum-colored, acrylic base and plastic or porcelain teeth.

The types of dentures above reflect technological and scientific advancements. Thanks to these advancements, we now have conventional, removable full and partial dentures, and a “hybrid”of traditional dentures and dental implants.

Full dentures

When you think of ways to replace a number of teeth, this may be the first option to come to mind. A removable denture is made from a flesh-colored, acrylic base and plastic or ceramic teeth. Full dentures are for edentulous or toothless patients. Any remaining teeth must be pulled and tissues healed before the denture is placed.

A related immediate denture can be inserted after teeth are pulled so you don’t have to be toothless while dentures are made in the lab and during the months when tissues are healing.

Partial dentures

The basic concept behind this option is the same as with full dentures, only scattered gaps or spaces where multiple teeth used to be are replaced. The artificial teeth sit on top of a metal framework. This framework attaches to existing natural teeth. Partial dentures also offer a removable alternative to fixed bridges supported by surrounding, crown-covered abutment teeth.

Overdentures

Also known as an implant-supported denture, the gum-colored, plastic base is connected to the jaw via dental implants placed in the bone. Just like dental implant procedures to replace a single tooth or a few teeth, this is a permanent option. A key benefit is that the design most closely reconstructs the natural teeth, as it is connected to the jawbone by the artificial tooth root or implant. With such a natural design, natural function follows. The bone loss historically associated with removable dentures is minimized.

John L. Aurelia, DDS, PLLC has knowledge and experience with the latest advancements across a number of treatments, including dental implants, dentures and other restorations such as crowns and bridges. Call (248) 243-6044 if you are interested in learning more about denture types near Lake Orion.

Dr. John Aurelia
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Dr. John Aurelia, DDS, brings over two decades of expertise in dentistry, having earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2003. An active member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American and Michigan Dental Associations, Dr. Aurelia has also completed advanced studies at the Dawson Academy and Pankey Institute. His dedication extends beyond practice, with a history of humanitarian work in the Dominican Republic and a focus on integrating cutting-edge techniques in implants and cosmetic dentistry. Known for personalized care, Dr. Aurelia is committed to enhancing patients' smiles and confidence.

Dr. Dina Khoury

Dr. Dina Khoury, a dedicated dentist with over 20 years of experience, graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1995. Following her education, she served veterans during her residency at the VA Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Khoury has spent most of her career in private practice, focusing on patients of all ages and specializing in cosmetic dentistry. As an active member of the Rochester community, she combines professional expertise with a personal commitment to patient care and local engagement.