Dentures

A full denture will be fitted if all your upper or lower teeth need to be removed or you’re having an old complete denture replaced. The denture will usually be fitted as soon as your teeth are removed, which means you won’t be without teeth. The denture will fit snugly over your gums and jawbone.

However, if you have dentures fitted immediately after the removal of several teeth, the gums and bone will alter in shape fairly quickly and the dentures will probably need relining or remaking after a few months.

Occasionally, your gums may need to be left to heal and alter in shape for several months before dentures can be fitted. You can either see a dentist or a qualified clinical dental technician to have your dentures made and fitted. The difference between a dentist and a clinical dental technician (in terms of producing dentures) is outlined below.

A dentist –

will take measurements and impressions (moulds) of your mouth, and then order your full or partial dentures from a dental technician.

A clinical dental technician –

will provide a full set of dentures directly without you having to see your dentist (although you should still have regular dental check-ups with your dentist).

A trial denture will be created from the impressions taken of your mouth. The dentist or clinical dental technician will try this in your mouth to assess the fit and for you to assess the appearance. The shape and colour may be adjusted before the final denture is produced.