Replacing a full arch of teeth
A complete denture replaces all teeth in one jaw. It rests on the gums and the bone underneath, is taken out for cleaning, and needs no surgery (if teeth are already missing). It is a well-established way to help with appearance, chewing and speech. A denture doesn’t work in the same way as natural teeth and it will take some practice to get used to.
An upper denture is generally held reasonably well by the fit against the palate. A lower denture tends to be less stable. This is normal rather than a fault in the denture, and it is the single most common reason people consider implants over dentures.
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How a complete denture is made
Making a well-fitting denture takes several carefully sequenced appointments: impressions of the mouth, records of how your teeth meet, a try-in stage where the appearance and fit are assessed, and the fitting itself. Sometimes more than one try in is needed. This staged approach allows the denture to be refined at each step so it fits and functions as well as possible for your mouth.
Where teeth are being removed, an immediate denture can sometimes be fitted on the same day so you are not without teeth while the gums heal. Because it is made before the teeth are removed, its appearance and fit cant be fully tried beforehand. The shape of the ridge also changes as it heals, so an immediate denture is expected to need relining or remaking once things have settled, which is a separate stage of treatment.
Settling in and maintenance
New dentures usually take a period of adjustment, and review appointments to fine-tune the fit and comfort are a normal part of settling in. Sore spots, changes to speech, extra saliva and a feeling of fullness are common at first and usually ease as you get used to the denture. How many appointments are needed varies from person to person. Some settle quickly, while others need several visits to get things comfortable, and both situations are entirely normal. Over time, dentures may also need adjustment, relining or replacement as the mouth changes; implant-retained dentures have connecting components that are checked and maintained as well.
The bone and gum underneath a denture continue to change over the years, which is why dentures need relining or remaking periodically rather than lasting indefinitely. It is advised to leave the denture out overnight so the tissues underneath get a rest, and to clean it out of the mouth daily.
This page is general information and doesn’t replace an individual assessment. All dental treatment carries risks, which your prosthodontist will discuss with you.
Experience & ExpertisePatient Referrals
Patient referrals are always welcome, although they are not required. We work closely with referring dentists and provide care only for the stages requested. Clear reports are provided, and patients return to their general dentist for ongoing care.
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