What are Dentures?

Dentures are removable plates holding one or more artificial teeth. Dentures can be taken out and put back into the mouth. Today’s dentures are now more natural looking and comfortable than ever before.

There are two main types of dentures: full and partial. We will help you choose the type of denture that’s best for you based on whether some or all of your teeth are going to be replaced.

What are their benefits?

The main benefit of dentures is that you have a set of fully functioning teeth that will look and feel natural.

What is the procedure?

Firstly, you will have an initial consultation with us to discuss the procedure. With full dentures, a flesh-colored acrylic base fits over your gums. The base of the upper denture covers the palate, while the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe in order to accommodate your tongue.

Dentures are then custom-made in a dental laboratory from the impressions/ scans taken of your mouth.

What are the different variations of dentures?

1.     Conventional Full Denture: this is placed in your mouth after any remaining teeth are removed and tissues have healed.

2.     Immediate Full Denture: an immediate full denture is inserted immediately after the remaining teeth are removed. While immediate dentures offer the benefit of never having to be without teeth, they must be relined several months after being inserted. The reason is that the bone supporting the teeth reshapes as it heals, this then causes the denture to loosen.

3.     Partial DentureL this denture rests on a metal framework that attaches to your natural teeth. Partial dentures offer a removable alternative to bridges.

How long before I get used to my dentures?

New dentures can feel uncomfortable or awkward at first- eating and speaking may require some practice. A bulky or loose feeling is not uncommon, while the muscles of your cheeks and tongue learn to hold your dentures in place. As well as this, minor irritation or soreness is not unusual. If you are experiencing irritation, visit us for further advice and recommendations.

How long do dentures last?

 It is important to maintain good oral hygiene after the procedure – it is important to brush your dentures daily to remove food deposits and plaque.

When handling your dentures, we recommend that you stand over a folded towel or basin of water. Dentures are delicate and may break if dropped.

After the procedure don’t let your dentures dry out. Place them in a denture cleanser soaking solution or water when you’re not wearing them – however, do not use hot water as this can cause the denture to warp.

Over time, your denture will need to be relined/remade/rebased due to normal wear. As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which results in your dentures loosening. When your dentures loosen, chewing becomes difficult and irritates the gums.

We advise that you see your dentist annually for a check-up.