What are dentures?
Dentures are custom-made replacements for missing teeth which are removable so they can be taken in and out. They are usually the cheapest way to replace missing teeth.
Alternative options to dentures
Different types of dentures
Dentures come in various types to accommodate different dental needs and preferences, each designed to restore the appearance and functionality of missing teeth.
Complete dentures are ideal for people who have lost all of their teeth in an arch, providing a full set of prosthetic teeth.
Partial dentures are used when you have some gaps in your mouth but you still have some teeth as well. Partial dentures are often attached to the remaining teeth with clasps or precision attachments for stability.
Immediate dentures are provided immediately after tooth extraction, offering the benefit of never having to appear without teeth.
Overdentures are a specialist type of denture that fit over your remaining natural teeth or dental implants in order to improve stability.
The process of getting dentures
Making a set of custom dentures usually requires multiple appointments. These stages can vary from patient to patient but in general, here are the steps required to make a set of dentures.
Initial Consultation
The first step involves a thorough examination by a dental professional. During this visit, they'll assess your oral health, discuss your needs, and explain suitable denture options.
This stage might also involve taking X-rays or making impressions of your existing teeth and gums to understand your mouth's structure.
Preparation
Depending on the type of dentures and the individual's oral health, preparation might involve extracting remaining teeth, treating any gum disease, or preparing the mouth's structure for dentures.
Impressions/scans and Measurements
Once your mouth is ready for dentures, detailed impressions and measurements of your mouth are taken. These serve as a guide for crafting your custom dentures, ensuring they fit comfortably and look natural.
Trial Fittings
Before the final dentures are completed, wax-trial versions are often created. These trials allow you to test the fit, feel, and appearance of the dentures. It's an opportunity for adjustments to be made in terms of colour, shape, and fit to ensure they meet your expectations and needs.
Final Fitting
After making any necessary adjustments, the final dentures are manufactured and fitted. During this appointment, your dentist will ensure that the dentures fit properly, making minor adjustments for comfort and optimal bite.
They'll also provide guidance on how to wear, remove, and care for your new dentures.
Adjustments and Follow-up
It's normal to need some time to adjust to wearing dentures. Follow-up visits are usually scheduled to address any discomfort or adjustments. Your dentist might make minor modifications to improve the fit and comfort as you adapt to your new dentures.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Regular dental check-ups are important for maintaining the health of your mouth and the condition of your dentures. Over time, your gums and jawbone can change shape, leading to a need for denture adjustments or replacements.
Adjusting to Your New Dentures
Adapting to dentures takes time. Initially, they may feel strange or uncomfortable. Here are tips to ease the transition:
Start with soft foods cut into small pieces.
Practice speaking aloud to adjust more quickly.
Use adhesives if recommended by your dentist to secure them in place.
Caring for Your Dentures
Proper care extends the life of your dentures and maintains oral health:
Clean them daily with a soft-bristle brush and non-abrasive cleaner.
Soak them overnight in a denture-cleaning solution.
Handle them with care to avoid bending or damaging the material.
How much do dentures cost?
On the NHS, dentures are classed as a band 3 treatment meaning that they cost £319.10. NHS dentures are often made in cheap labs and will usually only be available in acrylic material with limited design choices.
Private dentures can vary in cost depending on the skill of the dentist and the quality of the lab work.
A full/partial acrylic denture will start from £1000
A partial Cobalt Chrome denture with clasps and clips will start from £1750
An implant-retainer overdenture will start from £2000
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