Dentures are prosthetic restorations that replace missing teeth with artificial teeth embedded in an acrylic, gum-like denture base which fits over the upper or lower jawbone. They can be worn with comfort, have a realistic appearance and can help to preserve the patient’s health. Dentures can be used if a patient has lost all, most, or even just a few natural teeth, and can be used on one or both arches (top and/or bottom jaw). In general, a denture rests directly on the gum and is held in place by a combination of suction, the facial muscles and the tongue. Dentures which replace only a few teeth may have clasps.

There are two main categories of dentures. Full or complete dentures replace all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw while partial dentures replace some of the teeth.

Within the two main categories, there are numerous different types of dentures available. An overdenture fits over two or more natural teeth which are specially prepared or implants, which secure the denture in place and stabilize it. Immediate dentures are placed in the mouth at the time of tooth extractions, without waiting for the gums to heal so patients do not have to be toothless. Conventional dentures are not placed in the mouth until the gum tissue has healed following any necessary tooth extractions.

Before a denture can be created and placed, a patient needs to have an initial consultation and evaluation by a general dentist or a prosthodontist. This will include a comprehensive dental examination and a medical and dental history.

A denture is a restoration that requires multiple visits to the dental office. One visit is necessary to prepare the mouth and any remaining teeth.  Impressions or molds of the mouth and gums are taken and sent to a dental laboratory where the denture will be made. The impressions may be made before or after the teeth and mouth have been repaired, depending on the type of denture used. Finally, the denture needs to be placed and adjusted for the best fit. This may require several follow-up appointments.

Patients need time to adjust to their new dentures. They may feel bulky, loose and awkward at first. Patients may experience soreness, discomfort or excessive production of saliva until they become accustomed to the dentures. They may also need to make some changes in their eating habits.

Despite the lack of natural teeth, people with dentures still require regular dental examinations. Natural changes in the mouth and jaw occur with age and dentures need adjustments or over time, may even need to be replaced.  Adjustments may be made by the dentist in a dental office. Dentures can be damaged beyond repair by patients who attempt to fix or modify them.

Dentures also have disadvantages. No artificial teeth work as well as natural, healthy teeth. Dentures can break, chip or crack. They may be associated with certain oral infections when they are not worn and cared for as instructed by a dentist. Poorly fitting dentures can cause sores and irritations.