Dentures are removable dental appliances used to replace missing teeth and restore oral function. They have been a crucial part of dental care for centuries, evolving from rudimentary designs to modern, comfortable, and natural-looking solutions. This page will provide an in-depth overview of dentures, including their types, benefits, care, and considerations for patients who may need them.

Types of Dentures

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures are used when all natural teeth in either the upper or lower arch are missing. Conventional complete dentures are custom-made and fitted after the remaining teeth are removed and the gums have healed. Immediate complete dentures are pre-made and placed immediately after tooth extraction, allowing the patient to have teeth during the healing period.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are utilised when some natural teeth are still present in the dental arch. They can be removable or fixed (known as dental bridges), with clasps or attachments to secure them to existing teeth, or can be secured in place with dental implants.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures are anchored to dental implants that are surgically placed in the jawbone. They offer superior stability and helps prevent bone loss.

Benefits of Dentures

  • Improved Appearance: Dentures restore the appearance of a natural smile, boosting confidence and self-esteem.

  • Enhanced Speech: Missing teeth can affect speech clarity, and dentures can help improve pronunciation.

  • Restored Chewing Function: Dentures enable the ability to eat a variety of foods, ensuring proper nutrition.

  • Prevention of Dental Issues: Replacing missing teeth with dentures prevents adjacent teeth from shifting, maintaining proper bite alignment.

  • Cost Effective Solution: Dentures are a more affordable tooth replacement option compared to dental implants.

How to care for your Denture

  • Daily Cleaning: Dentures should be removed and cleaned daily to prevent plaque buildup, odor, and staining. Use a denture brush and a mild denture cleaner, and avoid abrasive toothpaste.

  • Proper Storage: Dentures should be stored in a denture solution or water when not in use to prevent them from drying out or warping.

  • Regular Check-ups: Denture wearers should visit their dentist regularly for adjustments and to assess the fit.

  • Handling With Care: Dentures are fragile and should be handled with care to prevent damage, especially when cleaning them, it is recommended to put a towel in the basin, as dropping them into the sink is a common way for dentures to break.

It may take some time to adjust to wearing dentures, including speaking and eating with them. Dentures may require replacement every 5-10 years due to wear and changes in the oral tissues. Some individuals may benefit from denture adhesives for added stability.

Dentures have come a long way in terms of design, comfort, and aesthetics. They provide an essential solution for individuals with missing teeth, offering numerous benefits for oral health and quality of life.

Proper care, regular check-ups, and a patient’s commitment to adapting to dentures are key factors in ensuring their effectiveness. If you have missing teeth or are considering dentures, or would like to even discuss the gold standard in tooth replacement (dental implants) please do not hesitate to call us and book your free consultation today.