Dentures

There are two main types:

• Full dentures
• Replace all the natural teeth.
• Can be for the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both.
• Partial dentures
• Used when you still have some natural teeth.
• Fill gaps where teeth are missing in different parts of the mouth.

What are dentures made from?

Dentures can be made from different materials. Your dental team will help you choose what suits you best.

Plastic (acrylic) dentures

Plastic (acrylic) dentures are the most common. They are made from a strong plastic and are usually comfortable to wear.

• Full dentures stay in place using suction.
• Partial dentures are held in place with small metal clasps.

Many people find them comfortable and easy to wear. However, some find acrylic dentures bulky or harder to get used to.

Metal dentures (chrome cobalt)

Metal dentures have a thin metal base with natural-looking teeth attached. They are:

• Smaller and lighter than plastic dentures.
• Very stable and comfortable to wear.
• Use clasps that fit around natural teeth.

Metal dentures are only suitable if you still have strong natural teeth to support them.

They are usually more expensive than plastic dentures.

Flexible dentures

Flexible dentures are made from a soft, flexible plastic and are gently bent into place. They are usually used as partial dentures.

Flexible dentures are often designed in a horseshoe shape and do not usually cover the roof of the mouth. They stay in place by lightly flexing around your natural teeth, rather than using metal clasps.

Because they are thinner and more flexible, they can:

• Feel smaller and more comfortable.
• Be less noticeable in the mouth.
• Be less likely to affect speech or taste.

Why wear dentures?

Dentures can help in many ways, including:

• Improving confidence and self-esteem.
• Supporting clearer speech.
• Making it easier to chew food properly.
• Helping digestion by allowing better chewing.
• Keeping your bite balanced.
• Reducing strain on the jaw joints.
• Preventing remaining teeth from tipping or drifting into gaps.

Will I be able to eat with dentures?

Yes, but it can take a little time to adjust.

Tips to help:

• Start with soft foods.
• Cut food into small pieces.
• Chew slowly and evenly on both sides of your mouth.
• Avoid very sticky or hard foods at first.

Most people return to a normal diet once they are used to their dentures.

Will dentures change how I look?

Dentures are designed to look natural.

• If you still have some natural teeth, the denture teeth will be matched to them.
• If you have no natural teeth, your dental team will choose a size, shape and colour that suits your face.
• Old photos of your natural smile can be helpful when making full dentures.

Should I sleep with my dentures in?

It is usually best to remove dentures at night.

This:

• Gives your gums time to rest.
• Helps prevent soreness and infections.

Before bed:

• Clean your dentures thoroughly.
• Leave them in a small amount of water overnight to stop them drying out or warping.

In the morning:

• Brush them again before putting them back in.

How long do dentures last?

With good care:

• Dentures can last several years.
• Your mouth naturally changes over time.
• Dentures often need replacing every five to eight years to keep them fitting well and working properly.

Regular dental check-ups help ensure your dentures still fit comfortably.

Need advice?

If you’re missing teeth and thinking about dentures, speak to your dental team. They can explain your options and help you choose the right type for your mouth and lifestyle.