What are dentures?

Dentures are custom-made removable appliances fitted with artificial acrylic teeth to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Dentures can be classified according to the material that they are made of, or according to the number of teeth they are replacing.

Material

1. Acrylic denture: the entire denture body and teeth are made of plastic
2. Metal dentures: a combination where metal (cobalt chromium) forms the body of the denture, while plastic (acrylic) forms the teeth and gums

Dentures can be further classified into partial dentures and complete dentures depending on the number of teeth being replaced.

Partial Denture
Replaces missing teeth when some natural teeth are remaining.
 

What does a denture do?

A denture helps to:

• Replace multiple missing teeth in a cost-effective manner
• Replace missing teeth for chewing purposes
• Replace missing front teeth to improve appearance and help with speech
• Temporarily replace missing front teeth while waiting for permanent options such as implants

What does it involve?

Before dentures can be fabricated, you will need to be assessed by a dentist to ensure that you are dentally healthy. This means any existing cavities and/or gum disease need to be treated first.

It typically involves a minimum of 2–5 appointments where the dentist will obtain accurate recordings of your oral condition and bite needed to fabricate the denture.

What can I expect after the procedure?

Having a new denture is a new experience and requires a period of adaptation. In the initial stages, you may experience minor irritation, altered speech, taste changes, and excessive salivation. However, these changes should reduce with time as you get used to the denture.

You may experience some sore spots during the initial period of denture wearing. If it is painful or uncomfortable in any region, it is advisable to note the area and return to the clinic for review.

Dentures do not last a lifetime. The supporting bone and gums continue to change over time, resulting in loosening of the dentures, which may require modification or replacement for optimal function. Yearly check-ups with a dentist are important to ensure that your dentures and teeth are in good condition.

How long will it take for me to get used to the denture?

Everyone adapts differently, so it may take a variable amount of time. Wearing a new denture is like wearing a new pair of shoes. With time, you will gradually get used to the feeling.

Reading aloud or practising speaking in front of a mirror can help. Your mouth, cheeks, and tongue will slowly adapt to the denture.

How should I eat with the denture?

Learning to chew with a new denture takes time. It is recommended to start with soft foods like tofu, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs.

Cut food into small pieces and chew using the back teeth on both sides of your mouth. Food may taste different initially. After eating, it is common for food to get trapped between the denture and gums, so remove the denture to rinse both your mouth and the denture.

How should I care for my denture?

• Soak it in room temperature water when not in use to prevent distortion
• If stained, soak in a denture cleanser (follow manufacturer’s instructions). Do NOT use boiling water or bleach
• Clean daily with a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleanser (e.g. mild detergent) or minimal toothpaste
• Remove after meals to rinse away trapped food particles
• Remove before sleeping to allow gums to rest and prevent fungal infections

What are my alternative options?

Alternatives include dental implants or bridges. Dental implants can improve retention and stability of your denture. Further assessment by your dentist is required to determine suitability.