Dentures are removable false teeth that come with a host of benefits, including helping to improve how you eat and speak, as well as boosting your confidence by restoring your smile. They can also enhance facial shape, especially around the lips and in the cheek area. You can either have partial dentures for a few missing teeth or full dentures to replace a whole set of teeth on the upper or lower jaw.
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Modern dentures are now much more comfortable, aesthetic and secure than ever before. They are usually made from acrylic, or a combination of acrylic and metal, creating a much thinner denture that is easier to wear and looks a lot more natural. Partial dentures are used for one or a few missing teeth, and will blend in beautifully with your existing teeth. If you need a full arch of replacement teeth, complete dentures consist of a gum coloured arch with prosthetic teeth attached, and can pass for the real thing.
Making and fitting dentures can be quite an involved process so you may have to attend several appointments to ensure the final set of dentures are a secure and comfy fit.
Following a comprehensive consultation, impressions of your mouth will be taken so a model can be produced and checked for fit, bite and comfort. We work with you to adjust and tweak this until we are both completely happy with the look and feel of the dentures.
Your final set of dentures will be manufactured in a dental laboratory and, when ready, you will be invited in for a fitting appointment. If you are having complete dentures, these will be fitted in the top or bottom of your mouth, while partial dentures may be held in place with metal hooks attached to existing teeth.
It can take a little while to get used to your new dentures, especially if they are a complete set. They may feel odd and a bit bulky at first, but once you have worn them for a few weeks you will become accustomed to the sensation of having them in your mouth. If you are experiencing any sore spots in your mouth, the denture surface may need some adjustment.
Eating can be tricky at first, but you will soon be eating normally again as you become used to your dentures. You may wish to start with softer foods and slowly introduce more challenging items. The amount of saliva in your mouth may increase, but this should soon improve as your mouth gets used to your replacement teeth.
Initially, speaking may be difficult and your voice may sound different as you get used to the dentures. You can improve this by reading aloud or practising tricky words at home, and your speech will gradually return to normal. You will be talking clearly and confidently before long.
Dentures are designed to be hardwearing, but will last longer if they are treated with care. You should take them out for cleaning daily, using a soft toothbrush or special denture brush to carefully remove food particles and any plaque deposits. If you have been advised to take your dentures out overnight, it is important to keep them in water or denture fluid to avoid them drying out. You will also need to attend regular check-ups so your dentist and hygienist can keep an eye on your oral health.
Dentures are designed to be strong and stable, but they do have the potential to become loose over time, especially if you experience any gum shrinkage. If your dentures begin to slip or move when you talk or eat, or you are worried about this, you may want to consider supporting your dentures with strategically placed dental implants for a completely solid foundation. Please talk to your dentist to find out more.
We offer a warm welcome to all patients looking to benefit from our dynamic and professional dental care and wide range of treatment options. Our clean and spacious practice and welcoming team help you feel at ease from the moment your journey begins.
Please be aware that we are a first floor practice that is only accessible via stairs.
Please contact us to find out more - we’re looking forward to getting to know you and showing you what we can do.
Please note we are currently unable to accept any new NHS patients.
