Dentures
Do you have several missing or decayed teeth that need to be replaced? Do you struggle to eat certain foods or avoid smiling and talking to people because you are ashamed and embarrassed by your smile?
If so, a denture (false teeth) could offer you a solution to restore appearance and function to your mouth. It will help you to eat, talk and smile easily with increased confidence.
What type of denture will I need?
Full Dentures
Full dentures are used when all your teeth need to be replaced. They can be fitted in the top and bottom of the mouth. A full denture incorporates a plastic gum coloured arch with a set of teeth attached.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used to replace one or more teeth. A plastic or metal plate will be used with teeth attached where required. The plate will be held in place with metal clasps which will anchor to your existing teeth.
Easy to clean:
Both full and partial dentures are easily removed for cleaning
Fitting a denture following extraction of the teeth
If all your teeth need to be removed it is normally possible to fit your removable denture straight away, although sometimes a recovery period is required.
If your dentures are fitted immediately, it is likely you will need to return for a re-adjustment or replacement around six months later. This is because the bone and gums tend to shrink slightly after the teeth have been removed.
What to expect when dentures are first fitted
It can take some time to get used to your new dentures, particularly if they are a full set. However, the transformation will be quite dramatic, and you are sure to be delighted with your new look.
You may find it strange when eating at first, if so, start with softer foods and introduce new items gradually. You may also notice a slight increase in salivary flow which should improve after a couple of weeks. Speech can be slightly affected at first until you get used to the new dentures. If this is the case, try reading aloud to yourself and practice more difficult words when you are alone!
Occasionally your dentures may cause sore spots because they are exerting pressure on certain parts of the gum. If this happens, we may need to adjust the denture surface. Pease contact us for an appointment.
Looking after your dentures
Generally, dentures are strong and hard wearing. By following the below steps you can help ensure they last for many years.
- It is important to ensure you visit us for regular check-ups once a year (even when you have a full denture) so that we can check the health of your gums.
- Always clean your dentures with a toothbrush or a special denture brush (don’t use toothpaste) denture cream is available.
- Dentures should be removed at night (unless advised otherwise) to give your gums a chance to rest.
- Store them in water or denture fluid, never let them dry out or they may go hard and lose their shape. You should aim to clean your dentures after every meal when possible.
- Remember to rinse them thoroughly before you put them back in.
- Remember to also brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth when you remove your dentures at night to ensure they stay healthy.
Having problems with your dentures?
It is important to look after your dentures and deal with any problems early to avoid potential sores and infection. If you notice any of the following, please return for a check- up immediately.
- If your dentures click when you talk or eat.
- They don’t feel like they fit properly or start to feel uncomfortable.
- They start to look worn.
- You notice any bleeding or bad breath which could indicate gum disease.