For larger gaps between teeth, dentures are a proven solution for permanently restoring the function and aesthetics of the missing teeth. The denture is custom-made in the lab and precisely fitted by the dentist. You can once again show off your most beautiful smile without others noticing the denture.
Various types of dentures can be adapted to any situation, allowing us to find an aesthetically pleasing solution even in challenging cases. There are a wide range of anchoring options, from simple clasp dentures to implant-supported dentures.
We invite you to consult with our dentists in Zurich to determine which type of denture is best suited to your needs.
When Are Dentures Recommended?
Dentures are used whenever many natural teeth are missing or when there are no teeth left in the jaw at all. Smaller gaps can often still be treated with a fixed dental bridge. However, if there are gaps of more than three teeth, a dental bridge can no longer be securely anchored. In such cases, a denture provides the necessary stability for a secure and long-lasting restoration.
Dentures can be anchored to both the remaining teeth and to implants. The traditional full denture relies on suction and a custom fit, requiring no fixed anchoring at all. This makes dentures suitable for nearly every situation, including an edentulous jaw.
What types of dentures are available?
Dentures differ in how they are anchored and in the number of teeth they replace. Our dentists in Zurich will be happy to advise you in detail on which options are suitable for your situation.
- A partial denture replaces parts of the dental arch. It can be attached to natural teeth or to implants. The simplest option is a clasp denture, which is secured to adjacent teeth with metal clasps. Aesthetically pleasing alternatives include a telescopic denture or an attachment denture.
- A full denture, or complete denture, is used for an edentulous jaw. The traditional full denture adheres to the palate via suction. An alternative is anchoring with dental implants.
- The attachment-retained denture is a combined dental prosthesis consisting of a fixed and a removable part. The removable cast denture is anchored to crowned teeth using an attachment mechanism. The connecting elements are not visible from the outside.
- In the case of the telescopic denture, attachment is achieved using so-called double crowns that interlock like a telescope. The denture can be easily snapped onto appropriately crowned teeth or implants. Friction ensures a secure fit without the need for additional fasteners.
- An implant-supported denture is attached to dental implants when there are no natural teeth remaining or only a few. It provides a palate-free, fixed, and aesthetically pleasing denture even for an edentulous jaw.
What is the treatment process for dentures?
Before fitting a denture, any oral health issues are treated first. Remaining teeth that cannot be saved are painlessly extracted. The dentist then takes an impression of the jaw, which is used to fabricate your denture in the dental laboratory.
The exact procedure also depends on the type of restoration. For implant-supported dentures, the implants are placed first. The denture is fitted after a healing period of several months. Several appointments may also be necessary to try in the denture and crowns. In the meantime, you will receive a custom-fitted temporary denture.
What should you keep in mind when caring for dentures?
Most dentures are removable, which makes cleaning and care easier. Depending on the type of denture, you should clean them with a toothbrush and toothpaste and also use a special cleaning solution at regular intervals. Household products such as dish soap or alcohol are not suitable. You should also avoid hot water, as parts of the denture may warp.
When caring for your natural teeth, pay special attention to the clasps and the edges of the crowns. Bacteria can easily accumulate in these areas, which is why thorough cleaning is important.
How much do dentures cost?
The cost of dentures depends on the type of restoration you choose and how many teeth need to be replaced. Therefore, there is no flat rate for dentures.
Feel free to consult with one of our dentists in Zurich about dentures. The dentist can recommend a solution that’s right for you and provide a cost estimate tailored to your situation.
FAQ
Dental bridges are used to replace small gaps in the teeth. They replace one to a maximum of three teeth. Dentures, on the other hand, replace an entire row of teeth or large portions of it. While a bridge is permanently bonded to the adjacent teeth, dentures are usually removable.
As an alternative to dentures, dental implants may be an option in certain cases. Dental implants can fully replace individual teeth, but they can also serve as anchors for bridges or implant-supported dentures.
Implant-supported dentures are suitable for patients who have already lost all or most of their natural teeth. In this case, the dental implants serve as abutments for the denture. A prerequisite is sufficient bone volume to anchor the implants.
With a properly fitted denture, you can speak and eat just as you would with your natural teeth. If you experience any problems, you should have the denture checked to ensure it fits correctly. In some cases, you may want to consider replacing the denture. Not every type of denture is equally suitable for every patient.
At first, you may feel as though you have a foreign object in your mouth, as you’ll need time to get used to the new situation. Minor difficulties with eating and speaking should subside quickly if the dentures fit well.
Until your permanent restoration is complete, we will provide you with a temporary restoration. This so-called immediate prosthesis is fabricated in the dental laboratory prior to treatment and can be placed immediately following any necessary tooth extraction.
The temporary denture ensures a flawless appearance, protects your teeth and gums, and allows you to get used to wearing it. However, it is less stable and does not fit as precisely as the permanent denture. Therefore, temporary dentures should not be worn permanently.
Dentures can break, whether from being accidentally dropped, improper cleaning, or material fatigue. Since chewing exerts significant force on dentures, their lifespan is generally limited.
If your dentures have broken, please feel free to schedule an appointment at short notice. Simple breaks can often be repaired on the same day. If there is significant material fatigue, your dentist may recommend having new dentures made.
With proper care, dentures can last about 5 to 15 years. Their lifespan can vary significantly depending on the type of denture and the individual’s eating and oral hygiene habits. Partial dentures tend to last longer than full dentures.