Introduction
Removable dentures are prostheses which are used to replace one or more teeth which are missing from a persons arch (upper or lower) of teeth. The reason why this type of prosthesis is referred to as removable is because patients can remove and reinsert them when required without the dentists help.
Why bother with Dentures?
An essential step in keeping a healthy smile is to replace teeth which are missing. When teeth are missing, the remaining ones can and will change position, drifting into the neighbouring spaces. Teeth which are out of position may actually damage tissues in the mouth. In addition, it may be difficult to clean thoroughly between crooked teeth. Consequently, you may run the risk of tooth decay and gum disease (periodontitis), which could lead to loss of further teeth.
A removable partial denture fills in the space where teeth are missing and helps to fill out your smile. A denture helps you to properly chew food, a difficult task when you are missing teeth; a denture may also improve speech and prevent a sagging face by providing support for the lips and cheeks.


Types of Dentures
Dentures fall into 2 main categories:
- ‘Partial’ Dentures (RPDs): suitable for patients who have at least one of their own natural teeth present. Currently the most common type of denture which we would make.
- ‘Full’ Dentures: suitable for patients who are missing ALL their teeth (this is known as ‘edentulous’).
What are they made of?
Dentures are commonly made of either Acrylic or Metal Alloy, usually Cobalt Chrome. Both have pros and cons but overall, Cobalt Chrome Dentures are the preferred option.
Acrylic
Pros
- Suitable for most people
- Can be fitted as soon as a tooth is removed
- Easy to adjust and repair
Cons
- Not as strong as Chrome Cobalt
- Tend to be larger/bulkier than Chrome Cobalt
- Can stain and discolour with time
Chrome Cobalt
Pros
- Very Strong and Light
- Increased Patient Comfort
- Excellent Aesthetics
Cons
- More Difficult to Repair
- Not suitable for every patient wanting a denture
- More expensive than Acrylic Dentures


Frequently Asked Questions:
How long will it take to get used to wearing a denture?
How long do I wear the denture for?
Is it difficult to eat with a denture?
Will the partial denture affect my speech?
How do I look after my denture?
Will my denture need adjusting?
Can I make DIY repairs to my denture myself?
Must I do anything special to take care of my mouth while I have a denture?
Taking Care of your Full Dentures
Don’t wear your dentures 24 hours a day. This gives your mouth a chance to “rest” and prevents fungal infections.
Dentures should be cleaned daily.
Take your dentures out of your mouth to clean them.
Clean your denture over a basin /sink of cold water or over a folded towel to avoid damage if they are dropped.
Soap/denture cleaning paste can be used to clean dentures with a toothbrush or a soft nailbrush.
Clean your tongue and roof of your mouth with a soft toothbrush.
Always put your dentures in cold water when they are out of your mouth to prevent warping.
If you are wearing dentures, you should visit your dentist regularly to ensure that your mouth stays healthy
Taking Care of your Partial Dentures
Partial Dentures should be removed after eating and cleaned in cold water.
If your partial denture has a metal clasp, do not use any cleaning agents which contain bleach.
When cleaning partial dentures, remember also to clean and floss your own teeth and gums using a toothbrush with soft/medium bristles and fluoride toothpaste.
Clean your tongue and roof of your mouth with a soft toothbrush.
If you are wearing dentures, you should visit your dentist regularly to ensure that your mouth stays healthy