Removable dentures that make your smile complete
Dentures have come a long way from the ill-fitting false teeth of the past. Using aesthetic materials that are durable, comfortable and lightweight, dentures are much better suited, being great replacements while being as kind as possible to your mouth. Partial dentures will blend in beautifully with existing teeth and complete dentures can pass for the real thing.
What is involved in having dentures made?
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, or sometimes tooth coloured hooks attached to existing teeth.
It can take a little while to get used to your new dentures, especially if they are a complete set. They may feel odd at first and eating can be tricky, so it may be a good idea to start with softer foods and slowly introduce more challenging items. The amount of saliva in your mouth may increase, but this should soon improve as your mouth gets used to your replacement teeth.
Initially, speaking may be difficult but you can improve this by reading aloud and if you are experiencing any sore spots in your mouth, the denture surface may need some adjustment.
Looking after your dentures
Dentures are designed to be hard-wearing but they will last longer if you treat them with care. Dentures should be removed before you go to bed so your gums can have a rest, but they must be stored in water or denture fluid as they could lose their shape if allowed to dry out.
Clean your dentures with a toothbrush or a special denture brush and remember to keep your gums and any remaining teeth clean too. You will also need to attend regular check-ups so your dentist and hygienist can keep an eye on your oral health.
