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Dentures
If you have lost all of your natural teeth, whether from periodontal disease, tooth decay or injury, complete dentures can replace your missing teeth - and your smile. Replacing missing teeth will benefit not only your appearance but also your health. You'll be able to eat and speak - two things that most people often take for granted until their natural teeth are prematurely lost.
The framework of the complete denture, called the base, generally is made of gum-colored acrylic plastic. The base of the upper denture covers the palate (the roof of the mouth) while that of the lower is shaped like a horseshoe to allow room for the tongue. The gum and bone tissues of the dental ridge support the denture. The base, which conforms closely to the ridge, is held in place with a thin film of saliva. When the base of the upper denture rests over the gums and palate, a seal is created, which holds the denture in place. Cheek muscles and tongue also help hold the lower denture in place.
The good thing about dentures is that they can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth. There may be little change in your appearance and full dentures may even restore the look of your smile.
(American Dental Association 2009)