Dentures

Do you have several missing teeth or a number of decayed or rotting teeth that need to be replaced? Are you no longer able to eat the foods you enjoy- or do you avoid smiling or talking because you are ashamed of your smile?

Why not find out more about our attractive and natural looking dentures which could offer a highly suitable way of restoring look and function to your mouth. Finally eat, talk and smile comfortably and with confidence.

Until fairly recently, dentures have been quite obvious and uncomfortable. In contrast, the highly modern dentures available at Inspired Dentistry are natural looking and extremely comfortable.

When fitted our dentures fit so well that a fixing adhesive is often not necessary. With their highly natural and realistic finish it can often be difficult to tell whether someone is even wearing dentures.

The benefit of dentures:

• Replace every tooth in one go if necessary
• Restore your ability to eat what you want. Smile and talk with confidence
• Modern dentures are now very well fitted- they feel more comfortable and secure.
• Modern dentures look very natural- in fact, it can be difficult to tell whether someone is even wearing them.
• Dentures could help restore structure to facial features including the lips and cheeks- often dramatically transforming the look of your face (for the better).
• Dentures can now be fixed in place with implants for a highly secure fit.

Types of denture:

Should you require all of your teeth replaced then we will supply you with a full denture. A full denture can be fitted to the top or bottom of the mouth (or both). A full denture will incorporate a plastic gum coloured arch with a full set of crowns attached.

For the replacement of one or more teeth you will need a partial denture. A partial denture comprises of a plastic or metal plate with crowns attached as required. Your denture will be held in place with metal hooks which will attach to your existing teeth.

Full and partial dentures can both be easily removed for easy cleaning.

Can a denture be fitted immediately after the extraction of my teeth?

If you do need your existing teeth extracted then it is usually possible to fit a denture straight away. Occasionally a recovery period is required. Every patient is different and we will advise you.

If your denture is fitted straight away you will need to return to us after a few months. Your bone and gum tends to shrink slightly in the months after teeth have been extracted. Therefore a re-adjustment or replacement may be necessary. We will monitor your case and advise you accordingly.

Dentures – the process

Length of treatment differs on a case-by-case basis. The production of your dentures is an involved process which will take great time and skill. Several appointments will be required so that we can measure and fit with your dentures well ensuring they feel secure, comfortable and look as natural as possible.

At your initial consultation a treatment plan will be produced for you. We will take impressions of your mouth so that we can produce an initial wax model of your dentures. This model will be checked for fit, bite and comfort, and used to produce your final set of dentures.

Around 1-2 weeks later your denture should be ready and you will attend a fitting appointment.

We will schedule a follow up appointment around one week after your dentures are fitted so that we can check your dentures and make sure you are happy with them.

Making your dentures – things to consider.

Many things will be considered in the manufacture of your new denture. We will study the height of your teeth, the muscles in your mouth, your centre bite and the support required for certain facial features (i.e. Lips and cheeks).

For the most natural finish possible, the size, shape and colour of the false teeth will also be considered. If you have your own ideas then please discuss them with us early. We would be very pleased to incorporate certain features such as fillings or slight misalignments- so your new teeth don’t look too perfect!

What to expect when your dentures are first fitted:

Getting used to a new set of dentures can take some time- particularly if they are a full set.

You may find it difficult to eat at first- if so, stick with softer foods, introducing harder items gradually overtime.

As dentures tend to fill the whole of your mouth you may notice a slight increase in salivary flow. This will improve after a couple of weeks. Likewise, speech may be slightly affected for a little while. Keep practising any tricky words and you’ll soon find this improves.

Sometimes a new set of dentures can cause sore sports- usually because they are exerting pressure on the gums. Re-adjustment of the denture surface can help with this. Please contact us for further advice.

Despite these minor niggling points- which should hopefully improve quickly- you will notice a dramatic transformation and are sure to be delighted with the new you.

How to look after your dentures:

Dentures are strong and hard-wearing and when well looked after they should last for many years.

• Even with a full denture you should visit us for regular dental check-ups so that we can check the health of your gums.
• Remove your dentures at night to allow your gums can rest.
• When you remove them, clean your dentures. Use a toothbrush or a special denture brush with special denture cream- not toothpaste!
• It’s advisable to clean your dentures after very meal if possible.
• Store your dentures in water or denture fluid. If they dry out them may go hard and break.
• Rinse your dentures thoroughly before you put them back in.
• Don’t forget about your gums, tongue and any remaining teeth. Give them a good brush when you remove your dentures at night.

Deal with denture problems early

Remember it’s important to look after your dentures well. If you do notice any problems you should get them looked at early to avoid potential sores or infection.

In the event of any of the following please return for a check-up immediately.

• Do your dentures click when you talk or eat?
• Do they feel uncomfortable or lose?
• Are they looking worn?
• Have you noticed any signs of gum disease- such as bleeding or bad breath?