Dentures

In plain English

What a dentures involves

Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. A full denture replaces every tooth in one jaw: a gum-colored acrylic base carrying a complete row of teeth. The upper one covers the roof of the mouth and is held by a thin film of saliva that creates suction against the palate. The lower one is horseshoe-shaped to leave room for the tongue, so it relies more on the ridge, cheeks and tongue to stay put and usually feels less secure. A partial denture fills gaps between remaining natural teeth and grips them with clasps. Dentures restore the ability to eat and speak and give the lips and cheeks the support that teeth used to provide. They are made in stages over several weeks, because each one is built to the exact shape of your gums and the way your jaws meet. They also take practice: chewing, speaking and judging the temperature of food all feel different at first.

1. 01

   Exam and first impressions

   The dentist examines your gums, any remaining teeth and the bony ridges, and takes preliminary impressions. These are used to make custom trays that fit your mouth closely for the next stage.

2. 02

   Final impressions

   Using the custom trays, a detailed impression captures the gums and the movable tissue at the borders, where the edges of the denture will sit. You may be asked to move your lips, cheeks and tongue while it sets.

3. 03

   Bite and measurement visit

   Wax blocks on trial bases are trimmed until they show how far apart your jaws should rest, how much lip support you need and where the midline falls. You and the dentist pick the shape, size and shade of the teeth.

4. 04

   Wax try-in

   The chosen teeth are set in wax on the trial bases so you can see them in your mouth. Appearance, speech and bite are checked. Teeth can still be moved easily at this point, so speak up about anything you dislike.

5. 05

   Delivery

   The lab converts the wax version to hard acrylic. At the fitting, the dentist checks for pressure spots with an indicator paste, adjusts the bite and explains how to insert, remove and clean the dentures.

6. 06

   Follow-up adjustments

   As you wear them, sore spots show where the base presses too hard. The dentist relieves those areas over one or more short visits. Do not file or bend a denture yourself.

Who it is usually for

Dentures are usually recommended for people missing many or all of their teeth, or whose remaining teeth cannot be saved, and who want a way to restore eating, speech and appearance at a lower cost than fixed options. A partial denture suits someone with several gaps and sound teeth to anchor it. Alternatives a dentist may raise include bridges or implants for smaller gaps, and implants placed under a denture so it snaps into place, which is often discussed for loose lower dentures. If teeth are being removed, an immediate denture can be made beforehand and worn while the gums heal. Your dentist can explain which fit your mouth and budget.

Fig. 2 — What to expect

What to Expect During Dentures

1. 01Initial impressions and measurements
2. 02Wax models for try-in appointments
3. 03Multiple fittings for proper fit
4. 04Final dentures delivered
5. 05Follow-up adjustments as needed

Before you agree to it

Questions to ask about your dentures

Table 1 — Common reasons

When You Might Need Dentures

• AMultiple missing teeth
• BImproving ability to eat and speak
• CRestoring facial appearance
• DCost-effective tooth replacement

Table 2 — Recovery after Dentures

Recovery After Dentures

When can you resume normal activities? Here's a quick guide:

Table 3 — Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures