What is a Denture?
People wear dentures to replace lost or missing teeth so they can enjoy a healthy diet and smile with confidence. Dentures are made of either acrylic (plastic) or metal. The two types of denture are as follow's:

A ‘complete' or ‘full' denture is one which replaces all the natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw.
                                                OR
 A ‘partial' denture fills in the spaces left by lost or missing teeth. It may be retained to your natural teeth with metal clasps or ‘precision attachments' with implants.

Why Should I wear dentures?
Full dentures, to replace all your own teeth, fit snugly over your gums. They will help you to eat comfortably and speak clearly, and will improve your confidence and self-esteem.

Partial dentures replace teeth that are missing and can sometimes be supported by the teeth you have left. If you have gaps between your teeth, then your other teeth may move to take up some of the space, so you could end up
with  crooked or tilted teeth. This could affect the way you bite and could damage your other teeth.

How long does it take to get a denture?
The making of a denture is a broken up into a serious of visits. The first visit is taking of impressions photos and measurements. We then send all this information off to our lab who design up a wax bite. A wax bite is purely for checking how the denture will fit against your gums. If you are happy with the way its sits we then send it off to the lab to have teeth fitted. The teeth fitted will match the colour of any natural teeth of if there is no natural a new colour can be selected. Once you are happy with the fit to your gums and the colour of the teeth we send away the denture to have it made. The last visit is fitting the finished denture. It is normal to need some adjustment on the final denture.

How soon can I have a denture after a tooth is taken out?
Usually dentures can be fitted straight after your teeth have been removed. You will need to visit the dentist beforehand for them to take measurements and impressions of your mouth. With immediate dentures you don't have to be without teeth while your gums are healing. However, bone and gums can shrink over time, especially during the first six months after your teeth have been taken out. If your gums shrink, your dentures may need relining, adjusting or even replacing. Your dentist  will be able to talk to you about this. Sometimes the dentist may advise you to wait until your gums are healed before having your dentures, as this can sometimes provide a better fit.

Will dentures make me look different?
Replacing lost or missing teeth is very good for your health and appearance. A complete or full denture replaces your natural teeth and gives support to your cheeks and lips. Without this support, sagging facial muscles can make a
person look older and they will find it harder to eat and speak properly. Dentures can be made to closely match your natural teeth so that your appearance hardly changes. Modern dentures may even improve the look of your smile and help fill out the appearance of your face giving you a younger happier smile.

Will I be able to eat with the denture?
Eating will take a little practice. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly, using both sides of your mouth at the same time to stop the denture  from moving. As you become more used to your denture, add other foods until you  get back to your normal healthy diet.

Will the denture affect how I speak?
Pronouncing certain words may take practice. Reading out loud and repeating difficult words will help. If you find that your dentures occasionally slip when you laugh, cough or smile, reposition them by gently biting down and swallowing. If this continues see your dentist.

How long do I wear my denture for?
During the first few days, your dentist will advise you  on the appropriate amount of time as it does take some time to get used to. After your mouth gets used to your dentures your dentist may advise that you take them out before going to bed. This allows your gums to rest and helps keep your mouth healthy. When you remove  your dentures at night, it is best to store them in a small amount of water to stop them warping.

Will I need a Fixative?
Dentures are custom made to fit your mouth and you shouldn't need a denture fixative. However, over time, dentures may become loose and not fit as well. When this happens, some people prefer to use a fixative for a short time before having them replaced. A poorly fitting denture may cause irritation and sores.

How do I look after my denture?
Dentures may break if you drop them. Always clean your dentures over a bowl of water or a folded towel in case you drop them. To clean your denture, the  general rule is: brush, soak, brush. Brush your dentures before soaking, to help remove any bits of food. Using an effervescent (fizzy) denture cleaner will help remove stubborn stains and leave your denture feeling fresher - always follow  the manufacturer's instructions. Then brush the dentures again, as you would  your own teeth, being careful not to scrub too hard as this may cause grooves in  the surface. Make sure you clean all the surfaces of the dentures, including the surface which touches your gums. This is especially  important if  you use any kind of denture fixative. If you notice a build up of stains or scale, have your denture cleaned by your dentist or hygienist

Are dentures my only option?
No. Implants are another option to consider. Ask your dentist for more information.

---