Here at Church View Dental Care we can offer a variety of bespoke denture solutions. For both regular and new patients we can provide a custom designed and fitted prosthesis to your specifications.

What is a denture?

A denture is a removable appliance that replaces missing teeth. A partial denture will replace one or more missing teeth whereas a complete denture will replace all the natural teeth in a jaw. In some situations, a removable partial denture may be the most practical option to replace multiple missing teeth. They are designed to fit snugly around your remaining teeth and they may have clips which attach to your natural teeth to keep the denture secure in your mouth. Sometimes implants can be placed to help retain dentures in the correct position.

What are the different types of dentures?

Dentures can be made of various materials. The most common dentures are made from a pink acrylic (a type of plastic). This material is the most affordable but unless they are designed very carefully, over time they can damage the tissues supporting the teeth. Complete dentures will usually be made of this material.

Metal based dentures are made of a cobalt chrome alloy, with acrylic teeth attached. The metal frame work can be much thinner than the acrylic, so is more comfortable to wear in the mouth as it is lighter. It is also a lot stronger so if you are prone to breaking dentures, a metal denture may be a better option for you. The metal work will have clips attached to your natural teeth which will help retain the denture. These may be visible when you smile.

A third option is a flexible plastic denture (valplast). This is only suitable for partial dentures where your remaining teeth are very healthy. Their advantage is the material is virtually unbreakable and can often be made with much less coverage on the roof of the mouth, which is great when replacing only a single tooth, or if you’ve previously struggled tolerating a denture. Not every patient is suitable for this type of denture but we will be happy to assess to see if this is the right choice for you.

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Your dentist will be able to advise which is the best denture for you.

All of our clinicians are experienced in both complete and partial dentures. Alternatively, if you have previously struggled with dentures, or are looking for something extra special, why not book a free assessment with our clinical denture technician – Joe O’Reilly. Joe not only does all the normal in-surgery parts of the process, but he also will be doing all the lab-based parts too; to ensure a seamless process from start to finish. Joe is happy to see existing patients at the practice and also accepts referrals from other dental practices and from unregistered patients who require his services.

How long does it take to have a denture made?

Dentures take approximately 5-6 weeks to be made from start to finish. The initial visits are to have impressions (moulds) taken of your mouth. We register the position of your bite, so the new dentures fit in with this. Following these visits, the dental technician will set up your denture on a wax base which will allow us to try the denture in your mouth. We check to ensure we are happy with the fit of the denture and that you are happy with the cosmetic outcome. If both the patient and dentist are happy at this stage, we will send the denture back to be processed and the denture will be ready at the next visit.

Are dentures uncomfortable to wear?

It is normal to have a period of adjustment to wearing a denture. You might find your speech is altered at first, and you may salivate more. However, this will adjust very quickly as you wear the denture. You will need to take care with eating at first and choose softer foods. When you initially get your denture’s, you may develop some sore spots. This is normal and usually settles fairly quickly. If this is not the case, please return to see your dentist.

Can dentures break?

In rare scenarios sometimes dentures can break. We can send your denture to be repaired in most situations. We often provide this service overnight to ensure that you’re without your denture for as little time as possible. Please contact the surgery for advice.

How much do dentures cost?

Your dentist will be able to provide you with a full written estimate of the costs involved with making a denture.

How do I look after my dentures?

It is important that you look after your dentures as you would your natural teeth. Follow these steps to keep your dentures in top condition.

1. Start by rinsing your dentures under running water to remove any loose food particles.
2. Gently brush all surfaces of the dentures, including the teeth, gums, and any metal or plastic clasps. Be thorough but avoid applying too much pressure to prevent damage. We recommend doing this over a towel, or filling your basin with water to cushion the denture if you should drop it. Use a soft-bristle denture brush or a regular toothbrush with soft bristles. Avoid using a regular toothpaste, as it can be abrasive. Instead, use a mild hand soap or a denture cleaner.
3. Consider soaking your dentures overnight in a denture cleaner solution. This can help remove stubborn stains and bacteria. Even if you’re not soaking your denture- it’s best not to sleep in it, this lets your mouth rest and recover.
4. After soaking your dentures, rinse your dentures thoroughly under running water to remove any residue from the cleaning solution.
5. While your dentures are out, gently brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft-bristle toothbrush to remove plaque and bacteria. Do not brush your teeth with your denture in your mouth.
6. When not wearing your dentures, keep them in a safe place, ideally in a denture soaking solution to prevent them from drying out or warping.
7. Do not use hot water to clean dentures, as it can cause them to lose their shape. Do not put your dentures in bleach as this will change their colour.
8. Visit your dentist for regular check-ups to ensure your dentures are fitting well and in good condition.

Remember, if you have any specific recommendations from your dentist or if your dentures have special care instructions, be sure to follow those as well.