Services

Dentures and Plates

Dentures are a replacement for missing teeth that you can remove and put back in as you please. Depending on your situation, you may need full or partial dentures. Dentures can improve facial appearance and self-esteem. Missing teeth can leave a sunken, collapsed look to the mouth area, and a denture is the simplest way to restore a more youthful appearance when all natural teeth have been lost.

Full dentures

Full dentures are used once all natural teeth have been removed, replaced with a complete set of dentures. There are two types:

• Conventional full dentures. All teeth are removed and the gum tissue is given time to heal, which can take a few months, before the dentures are fitted. You'll be without teeth for that healing period.
• Immediate full dentures. Your dentist takes measurements and has dentures made before your teeth are removed, so they can be fitted immediately afterwards. You won't be without teeth, though you will need a follow-up visit to refit the dentures once your jawbone has settled into its healed shape.

Removable partial dentures

Removable partial dentures are an option when not all of your teeth need removing. Similar to a bridge but not permanently fixed, they typically consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-coloured plastic base, connected by a metal framework that clasps onto your natural teeth.

It can take some time to get used to wearing dentures, they may feel bulky or loose at first, and this can affect eating and speech for a while. Over time, your mouth adjusts and dentures start to feel more natural, even if they're never quite as comfortable as your own teeth.

If you'd prefer a more secure, implant-retained fit, see our Implant Dentures page.

Caring for your dentures

Brush dentures to remove plaque and food particles, then store them in room-temperature water or a denture-cleaning solution. Never use hot water, as it can warp them. Handle dentures carefully, and never try to adjust them yourself, see your dentist if they feel uncomfortable or loose.