Dentures are removable false teeth that come with a host of benefits, including helping to improve how you eat and speak and boosting your confidence by restoring your smile. They can also enhance facial shape, especially around the lips and cheek area. You can either have partial dentures for a few missing teeth or complete dentures to replace a whole set of teeth on the upper or lower jaw.
They are usually made from acrylic or a combination of acrylic and metal. Modern materials mean partial dentures blend beautifully with existing teeth; complete dentures can pass for the real thing.
Types of Dentures
- Cobalt chrome
- Flexi dentures
Making and fitting dentures can be quite an involved process, so you may have to attend several appointments to ensure the final set are secure and comfy.
- Following a comprehensive consultation, impressions of your mouth will be taken so a wax model can be produced and checked for fit, bite and comfort.
- A final set of dentures will be manufactured in a laboratory, and when ready, you will be invited in for a fitting.
- If you have complete dentures, these will be fitted in the top or bottom of your mouth. This complete denture will consist of a gum-coloured arch with prosthetic teeth attached. Partial dentures will be used if you only have one or a few missing teeth and may be held in place with metal hooks attached to existing teeth.
- When you have tried out your dentures for a week or so, you will be invited back for a review appointment to check they still fit properly and remain fully functional.
Dentures are designed to be hardwearing, but they will last longer if you treat them with care. Dentures should be removed before you go to bed so your gums can rest, but they must be stored in water or denture fluid as they could lose their shape if allowed to dry out.
Clean your dentures with a toothbrush or a special brush, and remember to keep your gums and any remaining teeth clean too. You must also attend regular check-ups so your dentist and hygienist can monitor your oral health.
Flexi Denture
Complete Denture
