What are dentures
Dentures are false teeth made to replace teeth you have lost. Dentures can be complete or partial. Complete dentures cover your entire upper or lower jaw. Partials replace one or a few teeth. They fit snugly over the gums to replace missing teeth and eliminate potential problems caused by gaps.
Complete Dentures
A full denture will be fitted if all your upper or lower teeth need to be removed. The denture is usually fitted as soon as your teeth are removed, which means you won't ever be without teeth. The denture fits snugly over your gums and jawbone.
- a dentist will take measurements and impressions (moulds) of your mouth, then order your full or partial dentures from a dental technician
- A trial denture will be created from the impressions that are taken of your mouth. The dentist or clinical dental technician will try this in your mouth to assess the fit and for you to assess the appearance. The colour and shape may be adjusted before the final denture is produced.
Partial dentures
A partial denture is designed to fill in the gaps left by one or more missing teeth. It is either a plastic or metal plate with a number of false teeth attached to it. It usually clips onto some of your natural teeth via metal clasps, which hold it securely in place in your mouth. It can easily be unclipped and removed.
Your dentist will be able to take measurements of your mouth and order this for you, Partial dentures offer a removable alternative to bridges.
Caring for your Dentures
- Don't let your dentures dry out. Place them in a denture cleanser soaking solution or in plain water when you're not wearing them. Never use hot water, which can cause them to warp.
- Brushing your dentures daily will remove food deposits and plaque, and help prevent them from becoming stained. An ultrasonic cleaner may be used to care for your dentures, but it does not replace a thorough daily brushing.
- Brush your gums, tongue and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush before you insert your dentures. This stimulates circulation in your tissues and helps remove plaque.
- See your dentist if your dentures break, chip, crack or become loose.
