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 whilst a complete denture is indicated when all natural teeth are missing. A good set of dentures helps you to eat, speak, function, and often improves a person’s appearance.
What are dentures made of?
Dentures are usually made from acrylic, or a combination of acrylic and metal, and modern materials mean that 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 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. If you are experiencing any sore spots in your mouth, the denture surface may need some adjustment.
Frequently Asked Question
Partial dentures are created to fit perfectly into your smile, and complete dentures designed to look natural in the mouth. Many people are worried about dentures looking too false, but modern materials give a more natural finish.
If you are struggling with dentures that slip or move as you eat or speak, you may wish to consider having dental implants to hold them securely in place. Implants act as a solid foundation, fused to the jawbone to give strength and stability.
It can take a little while to get used to new dentures, but you should be comfortable with the feeling of them in your mouth in a few weeks. If you experience any sore spots or discomfort, please talk to your dentist.