Replacing teeth
Replacing teeth
Our Care Dental dentists can help restore your confidence with replacements for missing teeth: from single implants to bridges, only you will know they’re there.
Dentures are removable false teeth that come with a host of benefits, including helping to improve how you eat and speak, as well as boosting your confidence by restoring your smile. They can also enhance facial shape, especially around the lips and in the cheek area. You can either have partial dentures for a few missing teeth or full dentures to a replace a whole set of teeth on the upper or lower jaw.
They are usually made from acrylic, or a combination of acrylic and metal, and modern materials mean that partial dentures will blend in beautifully with existing teeth and complete dentures can pass for the real thing.
Making and fitting dentures can be quite an involved process so you may have to attend several appointments to ensure the final set of dentures are a secure and comfy fit.
It can take a little while to get used to your new dentures, especially if they are a complete set. They may feel a little odd at first and eating can be tricky, so it may be a good idea to start with softer foods and slowly introduce more challenging items. The amount of saliva in your mouth may increase, but this should soon improve as your mouth gets used to your replacement teeth.
Initially, speaking may be a little difficult but you can improve this by reading aloud and if you are experiencing any sore spots in your mouth, the denture surface may need a little adjustment.
Dentures are designed to be hardwearing but they will last longer if you treat them with care. Dentures should be removed before you go to bed so your gums can have a rest, but they must be stored in water or denture fluid as they could lose their shape if allowed to dry out.
Clean your dentures with a toothbrush or a special denture brush and remember to keep your gums and any remaining teeth clean too. You will also need to attend regular check-ups so your dentist and hygienist can keep an eye on your oral health.
Dentures are used to replace several missing teeth or a full set of teeth. They can help restore the look and function of your natural smile and may be suitable if you are looking for a removable option to replace missing teeth. Gaps can affect how you eat and speak, place extra strain on nearby teeth, and cause your bite to change over time. The bone loss associated with tooth loss can also affect facial shape, and may increase the risk of further tooth loss if left untreated.
Your dentist will discuss whether dentures are suitable for you and explain the different options available.
Complete dentures
Complete dentures are used when all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. They sit over your gums and are usually made from an acrylic base coloured to match your gums, with artificial teeth attached. Your dentist will take detailed measurements of your mouth so your dentures can be made to fit as comfortably as possible.
Partial dentures
Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They replace one or more missing teeth and are designed to fit around your existing teeth. Partial dentures are usually supported by a metal framework that helps keep them in place.
It’s common to notice a short adjustment period when you first start wearing dentures, and your speech may feel slightly different at first. This usually improves as you become used to how the dentures feel in your mouth, and most people return to speaking normally with a little practice. Your dentist will be able to offer advice and reassurance during this adjustment period if needed.
Dentures need to be cleaned daily, just like natural teeth. Plaque, tartar and stains can build up on dentures in much the same way as it can on natural teeth.
Removable dentures should be taken out and cleaned with a soft brush. They are usually rinsed and soaked overnight using a denture-cleaning solution.
It’s also important to keep your mouth clean by gently brushing your gums and tongue with a soft toothbrush and rinsing with a fluoride-free mouthwash.
If you would like to find out more about dentures, please contact Capel Dental Care to book an appointment.
Replacing teeth
Our Care Dental dentists can help restore your confidence with replacements for missing teeth: from single implants to bridges, only you will know they’re there.
Next steps
If you're ready to book an appointment, get in touch today.