Dentures are artificial devices to replace a partial or complete loss of teeth in the upper or lower jaw, and sometimes both. They are removable, and designed to emulate your own teeth and gums.
Individual’s who have suffered from severe tooth and gum decay or injury, may be good candidates for dentures. They can be beneficial for several reasons, including boosting selfconfidence, structuring the mouth and cheek areas and enabling the ability to bite down and chew food.
There are different types of partial and complete dentures. The standard type of denture is created after any decaying teeth have been removed and remaining wounds have healed. Impressions of your mouth will be taken using a mould, and your dentist will choose the appropriate teeth shape, color and size for your mouth. The dentures will then be created and placed into your mouth to ensure a correct fit. Once this has been established, you will be able to wear your new dentures permanently following your next visit (you will normally be issued ‘immediate’ dentures until your permanent ones can be fitted), which are usually held in place by the natural suction of your gums. If you are only having partial dentures fitted, your remaining teeth may need to be shaped to sit flush against the denture. Partial dentures rest on a metal framework with clasps or fixings to hold the denture in place, alongside the artificial teeth and gums.
Your dentist will give you instructions on how to care for your dentures, what you can and cannot eat, and getting used to wearing and speaking with them. It is important to maintain a good standard of oral hygiene.
