Dentures

What is a Denture?

A denture is a removable prosthesis that is inserted in the mouth daily to replace natural teeth and help restore your smile. Dentures also provide support for cheeks and lips and help provide comfort to the jaw joint.

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Dentures are typically made of a lightweight acrylic (plastic). Upper dentures tend to cover the palate (roof of the mouth). Lower dentures are shaped like a horseshoe to allow room for the tongue. 

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Two types of dentures:

An immediate denture is made and inserted immediately following tooth removal. Immediate dentures are TEMPORARY allow for the gum tissue to heal.

A conventional denture is a final denture that has a tight fit and is made after gum tissue has healed.

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Advice & Tips for Caring for Dentures

​Over a normal course of time dentures will wear and need to be replaced or relined in order to fit well. Regular dental examinations are still important for the denture wearer so that the appliances can be checked for proper fit and oral tissues can be checked for disease or change.

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• Only a dental professional is qualified to diagnose and adjust your denture or partial.

• Dentures should be brushed inside & outside DAILY with a soft denture tooth brush and mild soap.

• Toothpaste is too abrasive and will scratch and wear your denture.

• Rinse dentures with cold water.  Dentures warp if placed in hot water.

• Inspect your denture regularly for worn/broken teeth- these can cause your dentures to function poorly.

• Loose dentures can rub. They should be checked immediately as they can cause friction and pressure on the gum tissues and bones.

• When not in use, be sure to cover dentures with water or a denture-cleaning solution to prevent them from drying out.