Prosthodontics

What are dentures?

Dentures are generally defined as removable false teeth. That is, they are taken out of the mouth for cleaning.

Why would I have dentures?

Dentures are a fairly cost effective way of replacing missing teeth. If you have no teeth at all they may be the only solution available, but dentures can be used to replace anything from a single tooth to a complete set of teeth. There are two basic types of dentures (acrylic or metal-based) but there are an infinite number of variations because each denture is custom designed for each mouth. Dentures can sometimes be fixed to existing teeth, to metal bars or to implants to give better stability and security.
A proper set of well made dentures will give an excellent aesthetic result and can look so natural that no one would know you were wearing them.

How is treatment carried out?

This very much depends on the type of dentures that you have. Conventional dentures require a couple of visits to take accurate moulds of your mouth, then a further visit to record measurements of your mouth and to decide on the best position and shape for your teeth, then a visit to ‘try’ the dentures (this is a bit like trying on a bespoke suit) – minor adjustments are made and the final visit will be to fit and adjust the dentures. Most cases will also need a follow up appointment to deal with any minor niggles. More complex dentures will need all of these stages but may also need crown or implant work to be finished first.

Should I treat my teeth any differently after treatment?

Your own natural teeth and any attachments fixed inside your mouth will need to be cleaned as you would normally clean your teeth. The dentures will need additional special care but they are cleaned outside of the mouth, so it is not a particularly difficult task. You will be given written advice when your dentures are fitted.