Dentures serve as removable replacements for missing teeth and adjacent tissues, typically crafted from acrylic resin, sometimes combined with various metals.

Types of dentures

• Complete Dentures: Replace all teeth, providing a comprehensive solution.
• Partial Dentures: Fill spaces created by missing teeth, preventing other teeth from shifting.

Candidates for complete dentures have lost most or all-natural teeth, while partial dentures suit those with some remaining natural teeth. Dentures enhance chewing ability, speech, and facial muscle support, significantly improving facial appearance and smile.

Complete dentures, whether “conventional” or “immediate,” are made when all natural teeth are missing. Immediate dentures are inserted right after the removal of remaining teeth. Despite the advantage of not being without teeth during healing, immediate dentures may require adjustments due to potential gum and bone shrinkage. Conventional dentures are made once tissues have healed, a process taking at least 6-8 weeks.

Overdentures: Removable dentures fitting over remaining natural teeth or implants, providing stability and support.

Partial dentures, an option when several teeth are missing, usually consist of replacement teeth on gum-colored bases connected by a metal framework. Precision attachments offer enhanced aesthetics compared to visible metal clasps.

How are dentures made?

The denture creation process spans approximately one month and involves five appointments:

1. Initial diagnosis.
2. Impressions and a wax bite determine dimensions and jaw position.
3. A “try-in” ensures color, shape, and fit.
4. Placement of the final denture after minor adjustments.

Impressions, bite measurements, and shade determination guide the dental laboratory in customizing the denture. The wax try-in allows adjustments before finalizing the denture through the “lost wax” technique.

Getting used to your denture

Initially, new dentures may feel awkward, requiring adjustment. Practice inserting and removing them, and wear them consistently for quick identification of any parts needing adjustments. Soft food is advisable initially, and proper care involves regular cleaning and moisture retention.

Denture Care

Handle dentures over a towel or water-filled sink to prevent damage if dropped. Brush dentures daily with a denture brush, avoiding hard-bristle brushes. Denture cleansers with the ADA Seal of Acceptance are recommended. Nighttime soaking is essential, especially if the appliance has metal attachments.

Adjustments

Over time, adjusting the denture may be necessary. As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the fit of the denture. Your bone and gum ridges can recede or shrink, resulting in a loose-fitting denture. Loose dentures can cause various problems, including sores or infections. Dentures that do not fit properly can be adjusted. Avoid using a do-it-yourself kit to adjust your dentures, as this can damage the appliance beyond repair. Glues sold over the counter often contain harmful chemicals and should not be used on a denture.

If your denture no longer fits properly, if it breaks, cracks or chips, or if one of the teeth becomes loose, see your dentist immediately. In many cases, dentists can make necessary adjustments or repairs, often on the same day. Complicated repairs may require that the denture be sent to a special dental laboratory.

Over time, dentures will need to be relined, re-based, or re-made due to normal wear. To reline or re-base a denture, the dentist uses the existing denture teeth and refits the denture base or makes a new denture base. Dentures may need to be replaced if they become loose and the teeth show signs of significant wear.

Initially, new dentures may feel awkward, requiring adjustment. Practice inserting and removing them, and wear them consistently for quick identification of any parts needing adjustments. Soft food is advisable initially, and proper care involves regular cleaning and moisture retention.

Denture Care

Handle dentures over a towel or water-filled sink to prevent damage if dropped. Brush dentures daily with a denture brush, avoiding hard-bristle brushes. Denture cleansers with the ADA Seal of Acceptance are recommended. Nighttime soaking is essential, especially if the appliance has metal attachments.

Regular Maintenance and Concerns

Maintaining oral hygiene remains crucial, including brushing gums, tongue, and palate before inserting dentures. Adjustments over time are normal due to natural changes in the mouth. Denture repairs should be professionally handled to avoid irreversible damage.

Common concerns

Eating may require practice, starting with soft foods and gradually reintroducing a regular diet. Speech adjustments and occasional denture repositioning may be needed. Denture adhesives can enhance retention for well-fitting dentures, but poorly fitting ones may necessitate relining or replacement.

Denture adhesives

Denture adhesives can provide additional retention for well-fitting dentures. Denture adhesives are not the solution for old, ill-fitting dentures. A poorly fitting denture, which causes constant irritation over a long period, may contribute to the development of sores. These dentures may need a reline or need to be replaced. If your dentures begin to feel loose, or cause pronounced discomfort, consult with your dentist immediately.