What Are Dentures?

Losing teeth can affect how you eat, speak, and feel about your smile. Dentures are a long-standing and effective solution that help replace missing teeth, restore function, and improve confidence. They are custom-made dental appliances designed to look and function like natural teeth.

Key Takeaways

Dentures are custom-made appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues.
They improve chewing, speech, facial structure, and overall confidence.
Full dentures replace all teeth, while partial dentures replace only some.
Fixed or implant-supported dentures offer added stability.
Proper daily care and regular dental visits are essential.

What Dentures Are and How They Work

Dentures are prosthetic devices made to replace missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored base that fits over your gums. Dentures help restore normal mouth function and support facial muscles.

Artificial teeth made from durable resin
Gum-colored base that rests on the gums
Custom fit for comfort and appearance

Full dentures rely on suction or adhesive, while partial dentures use remaining natural teeth for support. Implant-supported dentures are anchored to the jawbone for maximum stability.

Types of Dentures and When They Are Used

Different denture types are available depending on how many teeth are missing and your oral health needs.

Full dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw
Partial dentures replace some missing teeth and attach to natural teeth
Immediate dentures are placed right after tooth extraction
Implant-supported dentures are secured to dental implants
Overdentures fit over remaining teeth or implants

Your dentist will recommend the best option based on comfort, stability, and long-term goals.

The Process of Getting Dentures

Getting dentures involves several steps to ensure a comfortable and functional fit.

Initial consultation and treatment planning
Taking detailed impressions of the mouth
Bite alignment and measurements
Wax try-in to check appearance and comfort
Final fitting and adjustments

The process may take several appointments, but it ensures your dentures fit well and look natural.

Living With Dentures

Adjusting to dentures takes time. Eating and speaking may feel different at first, but most people adapt quickly with practice.

Start with soft foods and small bites
Chew evenly on both sides of the mouth
Practice speaking to improve clarity

Daily care is essential to keep dentures clean and comfortable.

Denture Care and Maintenance

Remove and rinse dentures after eating
Brush dentures daily with a soft brush
Clean gums and tongue regularly
Soak dentures overnight in water or solution
Remove dentures before sleeping

Regular dental check-ups help ensure proper fit and oral health.

Benefits of Choosing Dentures

Dentures offer many advantages for people with missing teeth.

Restore chewing ability and nutrition
Support facial structure and appearance
Improve speech clarity
Boost confidence and quality of life
Provide a cost-effective tooth replacement option

Frequently Asked Questions