Dentures, otherwise known as removable false teeth, can be used to replace one or more missing teeth, with full dentures able to replace all teeth on the upper or lower jaw.
Dentures come with a whole host of benefits, including:
- Improving how you eat and speak
- Enhancing your face shape, particularly around your lips and cheek area
- Increasing your self-esteem by giving you back your full smile
Dentures are custom-made and tailored to you. Partial dentures blend in beautifully with your existing teeth and complete dentures can pass for the real thing, giving you confidence while eating, talking and smiling.
What is involved in having dentures made?
The making and fitting process for dentures can be quite involved, as we take care to ensure your final set of dentures is secure, comfortable and that you are completely happy with them.
At your initial comprehensive consultation, we will take impressions of your mouth so a wax model can be produced. We use this to check for fit, bite and comfort. Once we are completely happy, the model will be used to create your final set of dentures.
Once your dentures are ready, we will invite you in for a fitting appointment. A full denture will be fixed in the top or bottom of your mouth, and will consist of a non-removable gum-coloured arch with prosthetic teeth attached. A partial denture will seat around your existing teeth, and we can occasionally use your natural teeth for support with metal hooks. Both types of dentures are easily removable, making cleaning and caring for them easy.
What will my dentures feel like?
It can take a little while to get used to your new dentures, particularly if you have been fitted with a full set. Initially:
- You may find eating tricky, so starting with softer foods and slowly introducing other items will help.
- You may experience difficulties speaking, and you may notice changes to your speech, but you can improve this by reading aloud or practising talking when alone.
- Your dentures may feel sore – if this occurs, they may need adjusting so please contact us and we can help.
Looking after your dentures
Dentures are designed to be hard-wearing, but will certainly last longer if you treat them with care.
Your dentures should be removed at night to be cleaned and to give your gums a rest. They need to be stored in water or specialist denture disinfectant to prevent them drying out and losing their shape.
You can clean your dentures with a toothbrush or special dental brush, using special dental cream in place of your usual toothpaste. Remember you will need to keep your gums and any remaining teeth clean and healthy with regular brushing too.
You will need to attend regular check ups so your dentist and hygienist can keep an eye on your overall oral health and the condition and fit of your dentures.
