Dentures are a set of artificial teeth customized to fit comfortably over the gums to replace lost teeth and look and fit as naturally as possible. Dentures improve chewing ability and speech, provide support for facial muscles and greatly enhance the facial appearance and smile.

Candidates for complete dentures have lost most or all of their teeth. A partial denture is suitable for those who have some natural teeth remaining. Partial dentures are often a solution when several teeth are missing. Removable partial dentures usually consist of replacement teeth attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases, which are connected by metal framework. Removable partial dentures attach to your natural teeth with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments.

The denture process takes about 4 to 6 weeks and five appointments. First, an impression of your jaw is made using special materials. In addition, measurements are made to show how your jaws relate to one another and how much space is between them. The color or shade of your natural teeth is also noted. The impression, bite and shade are given to the dental lab so a denture can be custom-made for your mouth. Once your dentures are ready, follow up visits will help us adjust and fit them properly.

Initially, your dentures may feel awkward. However, your mouth will eventually become accustomed to wearing it. Inserting and removing the dentures will require some practice. Your dentures should easily fit into place. Never force the partial denture into position by biting down, which could bend or break the clasps.

At first, you may be asked to wear your dentures all the time. Though it may be temporarily uncomfortable, it’s the quickest way to identify if any denture areas need adjusting. If the denture puts too much pressure on a particular area, that spot will become sore. After making adjustments, your denture will feel more comfortable. We will then recommend to take the denture out of your mouth before going to bed and replace it in the morning.

Even with full dentures, you still need to take good care of your mouth. Every morning, brush your gums, tongue and palate with a soft-bristled brush before you put in your dentures. Maintaining a balanced diet is also important for a healthy mouth.

Over time, we may need to adjust your dentures. As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the fit. If your dentures no longer fit properly or you notice a crack or loosening, please contact our office and we can determine the next best steps to adjust or fix your dentures.

Eating will take a little practice and we suggest starting with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent your dentures from tipping. As you become accustomed to chewing, add other foods until you return to your normal diet. Be cautious with hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones or shells.

As for your speech, pronouncing certain words may require practice. If your dentures click while you`re talking, simply slow down your speech. You may find that your dentures occasionally slip when you laugh, cough or smile. Reposition the dentures by gently biting down and swallowing.