Dentures are prosthetic appliances constructed to replace missing teeth, and which are
supported by gum tissue, remaining teeth, or both, depending if the denture is a complete denture or a partial denture. Most dentures are removable, however, there are many different denture designs, some which are retained by attaching to teeth or dental implants.

A complete denture is generally constructed of acrylic or other plastic and replaces all of the teeth on the arch, resting on the gum tissue of the ridge. An overdenture is a complete denture that rests on, and may gain anchorage and increased chewing force from retained tooth roots or implants. A partial denture most often has a metal framework and attaches to natural teeth for retention and stability, while resting on soft tissues in the areas where it replaces the teeth that are missing.

All types of dentures serve to replace missing teeth, to restore chewing function and maintain a pleasing appearance.

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