A denture is an appliance that is worn over the gums to replace missing natural teeth. Dentures are normally removable and are usually made from lifelike resin teeth bonded to an acrylic or chrome base. Dentures improve chewing ability, speech and provide support for facial muscles filling out your face and improving confidence.

Your dentist may offer either of the following options:

• Complete denture (a full set) replaces your upper or lower natural teeth

• Partial dentures replace one or a few teeth and are held in place by metal clips

 

Wearing your dentures

• While dentures take some getting used to and will never feel exactly the same as natural teeth, today’s dentures are natural looking and more comfortable than ever.

Cleaning your dentures

• As with natural teeth, keeping your mouth clean and brushing morning and evening is just as important to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Denture-cleaning tablets can also be used to remove stains or bacteria.

Denture adhesive 

• No matter how well dentures have been made to fit, they may not provide the same strong, biting surface as natural teeth. An adhesive can help prevent pieces of food getting stuck between the denture and gums, so a wider range of food can be enjoyed.