What Are Dentures?
Dentures are artificial teeth and gums that sit on a custom-made removable plate. They are designed to cover missing teeth and blend in naturally with your remaining teeth through colour-matching technology. Dentures remain in position using suction and sometimes with the assistance of an oral adhesive.
Missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious, cause a loss in support for the gums and remaining teeth and also make it difficult to chew certain foods. Therefore, you may choose to get dentures if you want to solve these problems but prefer not to get a permanent solution.
Denture options include:
Alternative treatments for missing teeth also include bridges and implants.
Denture Procedures at Burgess & Hyder Dental Group
At Burgess & Hyder Dental Group, a denture is provided as an NHS service and usually requires two or three appointments to achieve optimum fit. Here’s what is involved:
- First, for the treatment to be successful it is necessary to wait for the tooth socket to have healed following the loss of the tooth. This typically takes 8 to 12 weeks.
- Following this, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth in order to ensure the sizing and model is identical.
- You will then come back to the practice after approximately 4 weeks for us to fit the denture and ensure it is a match for size, bite and appearance.
- After another month you may return for any adjustments.
Wearing dentures can take a little while to get used to and you may feel sore at first, but your gums should adapt. Eating with the denture in your mouth will also likely take a little bit of practice! We suggest trying out soft foods first, chewing equally on both sides of the mouth and avoiding very sticky items.
How to Care for Your Denture
Dentures typically last for approximately seven to ten years and the following steps can help to ensure long-term success:
- Brush the teeth, gums and denture every morning before you insert it into your mouth to prevent bacteria and plaque buildup.
- Clean your dentures under slow running water and use a soft toothbrush.
- Remove your dentures before bed and put them into warm water to stop them from drying out or warping.
- Dentures are delicate so, to prevent risk of breakage if you drop them, stand over a bowl of water or soft towel when handling.
- Contact us if your denture becomes chipped or cracked.
- Visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleaning.