What are dentures?

Dentures are false teeth that are worn to replace missing teeth. If you have missing teeth, wearing dentures can:

• make eating easier
• make speaking easier
• improve your confidence

Dentures are usually made of:

• acrylic resin (plastic), or
• plastic and a lightweight metal frame (mainly cobalt chrome)

When might I need dentures?

Your dentist or dental prosthetist (a denture specialist) might speak to you about getting dentures fitted if you have missing teeth. Dentures are specially made to fit your mouth.

There are 3 main types of dentures:

1. A full denture rests on your gums and replaces all your teeth on your upper (top) or lower (bottom) jaw, or both.
2. A partial denture replaces some of your teeth and is held in place by metal clasps around your remaining teeth.
3. An implant-retained denture replaces one or more of your teeth. It is fitted onto implants in the jaw — you can remove your dentures.

What will happen during my denture fitting?

Each set of dentures is custom made. Your dentist or dental prosthetist will measure and fit them for you.

If you're having your teeth removed by your dentist, you might choose to have dentures inserted on the same day. This is called an immediate denture. It can be prepared while you still have your old teeth. Your denture may need some adjustments as your gums heal.

Your dentist might ask you to wait a few months after tooth removal before getting dentures. This allows your gums to heal so you won't need as many adjustments once your dentures are in place.

Making and fitting dentures often takes several appointments.

What can I expect after a denture fitting?

Wearing dentures might feel strange at first. Most people take a few months to get used to how they feel. You should start slowly and eat soft foods at first with your new dentures.

You might need follow-up appointments so that your dentist or dental prosthetist can adjust your dentures.

After you have become used to the dentures, you'll still need to see your dentist or dental prosthetist, at least yearly, to check they still fit correctly.

How do I care for my dentures?

You should clean your dentures:

• 2 times a day — in the morning and before going to bed at night
• after eating
• when necessary

Always remove your denture for cleaning. Use a soft toothbrush to clean all surfaces of your dentures. It's best to clean your dentures with mild soap and water. Toothpaste can scratch the denture surfaces.

Overnight

Remove your dentures before going to bed at night. This allows your mouth time to rest.

After cleaning, dentures can be stored in a dry clean container or a container filled with water. Ask your dentist or dental prosthetist which is best for your dentures.

You'll need to take care of your dentures to avoid inflamed gums or infections.

Your oral health

You should look after your mouth, even if you don't have teeth. Brush your gums and tongue every day and visit your dentist for regular dental checks.

What are the benefits and risks of denture fitting?

Dentures can make it easier to eat and speak. If you don't replace missing teeth, the muscles in your face will sag. Dentures can help fill out your face.

It may take a few months for you to adjust to wearing a new set of dentures:

Your dentures might:

• feel awkward or loose
• cause irritation or soreness
• cause more saliva (spit) than normal

When should I see my dentist or dental prosthetist?

See your dentist or dental prosthetist if:

• your mouth is sore
• you have bleeding gums
• you have swelling
• you have ulcers

Your dentures may need to be adjusted.

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Resources and support

Find out more about dentures at Teeth.org.au.

Talk to your dentist or dental prosthetist about the benefits and risks of getting dentures. Use the Therapeutic Goods Administration's guide on what to ask. The information is in English, Arabic, Croatian, Farsi, Greek, Italian, Korean, Mandarin, Spanish, Turkish and Vietnamese.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.