Dentures (also known as false teeth) are prosthetic devices constructed to replace missing teeth, and are supported by the surrounding soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity. They are made of prosthetic or artificial teeth that are only attached to a supporting structure, making them removable. They provide the most cost-effective means of replacing missing teeth.
Dentures are artificial substitutes for missing natural teeth and adjacent soft tissues. They can be either a temporary or permanent tooth replacement option for people of all ages. They are typically made of acrylic resin (plastic) or a lightweight metal (mainly cobalt chrome) and are designed to look like your natural teeth.
A complete denture is worn by patients who have lost all their teeth in either the upper or lower jaws, or both. The denture will replace missing natural teeth and sit on the gum ridges, providing support to the lips and cheeks as well as maintaining the distance between your nose, mouth and chin. By choosing not to replace the missing teeth, the distance between your nose, mouth and chin can become smaller over time.
A partial denture is used when a person still has one or more natural teeth remaining. The denture will replace the missing teeth and is usually held in place in the mouth by clasps that surround and hold on to the remaining teeth. These dentures may have an acrylic resin (plastic) or metallic cobalt-chrome base. Your dentist may discuss these material options with you when planning for a denture.
A removable implant-retained denture is an alternative to the standard full dentures. These dentures can be used to replace all missing upper or lower teeth. They are partially supported and held in place by dental implants that are retained within the jawbone and partially supported by the gums. This denture can still be removed from the mouth by the person wearing it.
Just like natural teeth, dentures should be brushed morning and night. Remove the denture from the mouth prior to cleaning it. Use a spare toothbrush or a denture cleaning brush and a non-abrasive cleaning agent, such as liquid hand soap. Toothpaste should not be used to clean your denture. Be careful not to drop your denture while cleaning it as it can fracture or break.
Use a denture cleaning solution to soak dentures to remove plaque (bacteria) and disinfect them. Denture cleaning tablets can be purchased from supermarkets and pharmacies. Follow the directions included with the product purchased.
Whilst sleeping, dentures should be removed from the mouth and placed in a safe location. The current recommendation is to store dentures in a dry, safe location. However, storing them in water is an option. Removing dentures from the mouth at night helps to allow areas of discomfort within the mouth to heal and prevent infection in the gums beneath the denture. If dentures continue to cause discomfort, it is best to make an appointment with your dentist or dental prosthetist.
Return to your dentist or prosthetist for denture adjustments until you find your dentures comfortable to wear. It is important to continue to see your dentist regularly for general check-ups, even if no natural teeth remain. Over time, the shape of the mouth can change causing a denture to no longer fit well or function properly. Dentures may need to be altered where more denture material is added to help the denture fit securely again. In some cases, new dentures may be required.
© Copyright 2025. All rights reserved by Smile N Face