If you’ve experienced tooth loss, dentures offer an effective solution to restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile naturally. These custom-made prosthetics are designed to replace an entire arch of teeth, helping you regain functionality and the aesthetic appeal of your smile.
Missing teeth can impact your life in various ways, including:
Without teeth, chewing becomes challenging, which can lead to poor nutrition.
Teeth are essential for pronunciation, and their absence can affect your clarity of speech.
Missing teeth causes the facial muscles to collapse, giving an aged appearance.
A gap in your smile can hinder your self-esteem.
Dentures are custom-made dental prosthetics designed to replace all missing teeth. They are typically made from acrylic and designed to fit snugly over your gums, mimicking the appearance of natural teeth. However, we have several types of materials available for dentures, such as Flexi or Cobalt Chrome.
When considering dentures, it’s essential to understand how anatomical and structural factors can influence their fit and functionality. Gum shrinkage is a natural process that occurs over time after tooth loss, potentially leading to a loose fit and the need for adjustments or relining.
The shape of the lower ridge can also affect the stability of dentures; individuals with a narrow or flat lower ridge may face challenges in achieving a secure fit. Similarly, variations in palate shapes, such as a high or shallow palate, can impact the suction and comfort of upper dentures.
Additionally, lower dentures are more prone to movement due to the lack of suction and the presence of the tongue and cheeks, which can make them less stable compared to upper dentures.
The process of getting dentures typically begins with a dental evaluation to determine the patient’s oral health and ensure that dentures are the best solution. After any extractions, it’s important to allow time for the gums and jaw to heal completely, which ensures a better fit for the denture(s).
Once the gums are healed, the dentist will either take a 3D intra-oral scan or impressions of the patient’s mouth using specialised materials to create a custom mold. These impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians fabricate the dentures based on the patient’s unique anatomy. The process involves several fittings, where the dentist will work with the patient to ensure the dentures fit comfortably and align properly with the natural bite. Adjustments may be made to refine the fit and address any areas of discomfort.
Once finalised, the dentures are polished and delivered to the patient, restoring their ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Regular follow-up appointments help ensure the dentures remain comfortable and functional over time.
Proper care is essential to maximise the lifespan of your dentures and maintain oral hygiene:
Schedule a consultation to explore your options and embark on your journey to improved oral health.