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Dentures may be classified by type (complete or partial) and by time of placement (immediate or conventional). In general, a denture rests directly on the jawbone and is held in place by a combination of suction, the facial muscles and the tongue. Partial dentures may have clasps, bars or interlocking mechanisms. Patients may use a denture adhesive, but that should not be necessary if dentures fit well.
Dentures can be classified by how many teeth are being replaced. Complete dentures, which are also called plates, replace an entire arch of teeth. A pair of complete dentures is often used to replace the entire set of teeth in both upper and lower arches.
A partial denture, or removable partial denture (RPD), replaces some of the natural teeth in an arch. It attaches to and fits around the natural teeth and is held in place by clasps, bars or interlocking mechanisms. Categories of RPD include:
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Cast metal RPD. The most common removable partial denture. Consists of a metal framework with retainers and teeth.
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Acrylic RPD. This consists of a plastic framework and wire clasps. Designed for temporary use, such as while waiting for an implant to integrate. An acrylic RPD that replaces a single front tooth is called a flipper.
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Valplast RPD. Made of flexible plastic. Doesn't require metal clasps, and clasps made of valplace can be tooth or gum colored and not visible.
An overdenture fits over two or more natural teeth which are specially prepared or implants, which secure the denture in place and stabilize it. An overdenture is most commonly used on the lower jaw, but can also be used on the upper jaw. It is particularly beneficial because the presence of teeth or implants helps to preserve the jawbone. An overdenture also helps to dissipate some of the pressure and stress of chewing, which can help prevent sores and irritation. If natural teeth are used, they have to be reshaped by a dentist to fit with an overdenture. If implants are used, the denture may attach directly to the implants or may use a bar attachment. Dentures may also be classified by when they are placed in the mouth. An immediate denture is placed in the mouth at the time of tooth extractions, without waiting for the gums to heal. The patient does not have to go without teeth, but these dentures do not tend to fit as well as conventional dentures. They generally require frequent adjustments (e.g., relining, rebasing) or even replacement because the shape of the jaws can change considerably during the healing process. They are frequently used for aesthetic purposes when the front teeth have to be removed but may not be an option for all patients. Conventional dentures are not placed until the gum tissue has healed after tooth extractions. This leaves the patient without teeth for an extended period of time, usually six weeks or more. | 
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