Dentures

Dentures are removable prosthesis (sometime referred to as false teeth). They are used to replace missing teeth and can be made is acrylic or a combination of metal or acrylic. They fit snugly over the gums to replace missing teeth and eliminate potential problems caused by gaps. A good set of dentures help to eat, speak, function, and often improve a person's appearance.

Dentures are either

• Complete (full set) which replace all the upper or lower teeth
• Partial which replace just one or a few missing teeth.

Depending on the complexity of each case, the duration of the treatment will vary. During the initial visit a full dental examination is conducted, diagnosis explained and treatment options discussed. The subsequent visits will consist of impressions of the mouth, bite registration, try-in of the denture, fitting and review.

Dentures may feel a little strange to begin with. Several days or weeks will be required before you get accustomed to them. Adaptation varies with different persons and often time and experience are essential before dentures can be worn comfortably and function effectively.

Eating will take a little longer initially, so be patience and start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both side of the mouth will prevent dentures from tipping. Other food types can gradually be introduced until the normal diet is established.

Increased salivary flow is common when dentures are first inserted. This natural response of the salivary glands will return to normal after a few weeks.

Speech will be altered initially with new dentures. Reading out loud and repeating troublesome words is good practice and will speed up the adaptation process.

Sore spots can occur with new dentures. These are caused by surface irregularities or pressure spots on the denture bearing areas. A visit to dentist can help identify the problem and adjustment to dentures will help relieve the discomfort.

Keeping the mouth clean is just as important when dentures are worn. The remaining teeth, gums and tongue should be brushed twice daily with fluoride toothpaste to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Dentures should be brushed regularly with paste or soapy water before soaking to remove plaque or food debris. Soaking the dentures in a fizzy solution with denture cleaning tablets to remove stains and bacteria (please follow manufacture's instructions). Do not brush the denture too hard. If dropped the denture can break therefore always clean over a bowl or sink filled with water.