Dentures

Dentures replace missing teeth and their adjacent tissues with a removable dental appliance made of acrylic resin and, in some cases, a combination of metals.

There are four primary types of dentures:

Complete

This type of denture is fabricated to replace all of the teeth and their adjacent tissues.

Partial

Partial dentures bridge the gap between a missing tooth or teeth.

Conventional

Conventional dentures allow a recovery time (usually 4 to 8 weeks) after all of the teeth are removed before the dentures are placed in the mouth.

Immediate

This type of denture does not allow a healing period after all of the teeth are removed. The denture is immediately placed into the mouth after all teeth are removed. Additional adjustments in the fitting of this type of denture procedure may be necessary as healing occurs.

Oral health care and dentures:

• Remove the denture daily and brush the denture carefully with a brush and toothpaste, both specifically designed for denture cleaning.
• Do not use harsh abrasive cleaners on your denture.
• Do not clean and/or sterilize your denture in boiling water, or damage to the denture is likely to occur.
• If a partial denture is in place, remove it before brushing the natural teeth.
• Once removed, keep the denture in a safe place, out of the reach of children and soak the denture in a proper cleansing solution or water.
• Have your teeth cleaned every 6 months or more by an oral health professional.