A denture is a removable prosthesis used to replace missing teeth. Commonly referred to as ‘false teeth’, a denture is usually made of acrylic or a combination of acrylic and metal. A partial denture is fitted to replace some missing teeth whereas a complete denture is needed when all natural teeth are missing. A good set of dentures helps you to eat, speak, function, and improves appearance.
What treatment is involved?
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 wax model can be produced and checked for fit, bite and comfort.
- A final set of dentures will be manufactured in a laboratory and, when ready, you will be invited in for a fitting.
- If you are having complete dentures, these will be fitted in the top or bottom of your mouth. This complete denture will consist of a gum coloured arch with a set of prosthetic teeth attached. Partial dentures will be used if you only have one or a few missing teeth and may be held in place with metal hooks attached to existing teeth.
- When you have tried out your dentures for a week or so, you will be invited back for a review appointment to check they still fit properly and remain fully functional.
Adapting to your dentures
New dentures always feel strange when first placed in your mouth. Several days or weeks will be required before you get accustomed to them. The time it takes to get used to the dentures varies with different people, but some activities can help speed up the adjustment period, such as reading out loud.
Eating will take a little practice. Start with soft foods and foods cut into small pieces will help. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent dentures from tipping. Once you become accustomed to chewing, include other foods until you return to your normal diet.
Increased salivary flow
You may experience an increase in salivary flow when you first wear dentures. This is a natural response of the salivary glands that will return to normal after a few weeks.
New dentures may alter your speech initially. Pronouncing certain words may require practice. Reading out loud and repeating troublesome words will speed up the adaptation process. This problem rarely persists beyond two weeks.
Minor irritation caused by surface irregularities or pressure spots on the denture-bearing areas are quite common. Your dentist will relieve the discomfort by adjusting the dentures surface. Stop wearing the denture if the irritation is very painful. Consult your dentist immediately.
Looking after your dentures
Like natural teeth, dentures can accumulate plaque and food debris, particularly in areas where the dentures is in contact with the remaining teeth and gum. In addition to the usual oral hygiene measures like tooth brushing, dentures should be cleaned regularly. Poor dentures hygiene can result in stains on the dentures and a bad odour.
If possible, dentures should be removed and cleaned after every meal. Soak the dentures in denture cleanser once a week to remove stains and always rinse them thoroughly before using the dentures again.
When you are not wearing the dentures, store them in water. Dentures may lose their shape if left to dry out.
During the first few days, you are advised to wear them most of the time except when sleeping. Always remove the dentures before going to bed. This will allow your gum tissues to rest and promote oral health. Gentle massaging of the gums with a soft toothbrush is encouraged.