How are dentures made?
We will take a series of impressions of your jaw, measuring how much space is between your jaws and how they relate to one another.
We will then create models, wax forms and/or plastic patterns in the exact shape and position that your denture will be. You will then try this model several times to ensure it is exactly right. We will assess the denture for precise colour, shape and fit and check that you are happy with it.
We will then cast your final denture. The whole process can be completed within one to two days and your denture will then be ready to wear.
What will dentures feel like?
Your new dentures may feel a little odd for the first few weeks, until your facial muscles get used to them and you feel comfortable inserting and removing them. You may experience mild irritation or soreness at first, but this will fade as you adjust to wearing your dentures.
Will eating and speaking with dentures be difficult?
Eating with new dentures may feel uncomfortable for the first few weeks, and can take a little practice. It is best to start with softer foods cut into small pieces, slowly adding other food until you return to your normal diet. To ensure your denture lasts as long as possible, be cautious with hot or very hard food, and avoid food that is extremely sticky.
After getting your dentures, you may notice changes to your speech and have difficulty pronouncing certain words. If so, practising saying the difficult words aloud will help as you become accustomed to speaking with your denture in.
Do I need to remove my dentures at night?
We will instruct you on how long to wear your dentures and how often to remove them when we fit your final dentures. We may ask you to wear them all the time for the first few days, including while you sleep, to allow us to quickly identify any areas that may need adjusting. Once adjusted correctly, you should remove your dentures before going to bed, to allow your gums to rest.
Full dentures
Full dentures are recommended if you have lost all your upper or lower teeth, or had to have them removed due to decay or damage. They allow you to eat a wide variety of foods again and can help you regain a fuller face, giving a more youthful appearance. There are two types of full denture – Complete and Immediate.
Complete dentures are bespoke, made from a mould of your mouth and fitted once your gums have healed following tooth extraction.
Immediate dentures are made in advance and fitted as soon as your teeth have been removed. This ensures you are never without teeth, but bones and gums shrink over time so they will require more adjustments.
Acrylic Dentures
Easily mouldable and able to adapt to changes in your mouth, acrylic is a popular material used for more short-term partial and complete dentures. Acrylic dentures are easy to adjust and are lighter than alternative materials, minimising any speech issues. They are not as thin or natural-looking as other types of denture, but are a cost-effective choice and may be used as an interim measure while you wait for your metal or flexible denture.
Cobalt Dentures
Cobalt Chrome dentures are extremely small, thin and lightweight, and can be fitted with special attachments to use your existing teeth for support and stability. They are the strongest and most durable partial denture and avoid the bulky feeling that can be associated with acrylic.
Valplast (Flexible Dentures)
Flexible partial dentures are highly aesthetic and comfortable, as they can be easily adapted to grip around your existing teeth. They fit securely, without needing metal clips or dental adhesive to hold them in place, producing a natural look. Flexible dentures are more cost-effective than traditional dentures, and many patients choose them for their cosmetic qualities.