Dentures

With proper care, a well-made set of dentures can last between five and ten years, though this varies from patient to patient. Over time the shape of the jawbone and gum tissue naturally changes, which can cause dentures to become loose or uncomfortable. When this happens they may need to be relined, rebased, or replaced. Regular check-up appointments at Etwall Dental Practice are important even for denture wearers, as our team can assess the condition of your dentures, the health of your gums, and carry out a mouth cancer screening. Good daily cleaning habits will also help to extend the life of your dentures.

Modern dentures are designed to be comfortable, but there is usually an adjustment period while your mouth gets used to them, particularly with a full denture. During the first few weeks your gums may feel tender and your mouth may produce more saliva than usual as it adapts. Minor sore spots are common and can be easily adjusted by our team. Over time speaking and chewing will feel more natural. If your dentures continue to feel loose or cause persistent discomfort beyond the initial adjustment period, please contact us so that we can make the necessary alterations to ensure the best possible fit.

Yes, though it may take a little time to build up confidence with chewing. When you first receive your dentures we recommend starting with soft foods and cutting food into smaller pieces rather than biting directly with your front teeth. As you become more accustomed to your dentures you will gradually be able to eat a wider range of foods. Some items are best avoided, such as particularly hard, sticky, or chewy foods, as these can dislodge or damage the dentures. Your dentist will give you practical guidance on eating with your new dentures to help make the transition as smooth as possible.

Both dentures and dental implants replace missing teeth, but they work very differently. Dentures are removable appliances that sit on top of the gum and are held in place by suction, clasps, or denture adhesive. Dental implants are permanent fixtures surgically anchored into the jawbone, providing a fixed replacement that feels and functions more like a natural tooth. Implants also stimulate the jawbone, helping to prevent the bone loss that occurs after tooth loss. Dentures tend to be the more cost-effective option initially, while implants, including implant-retained dentures, offer greater long-term stability and comfort. Our team can help you decide which option best suits your needs.

Most patients find that they adapt to their dentures within a few weeks, though this varies from person to person. Initially you may notice that speaking feels slightly different or that chewing certain foods requires a little more thought. Practising speech at home can help speed up the adjustment process. It is also quite normal for dentures to feel slightly loose at first as your gums settle after any extractions. Follow-up appointments at Etwall Dental Practice allow us to make small adjustments that will improve comfort and fit, and our team will guide you through the adjustment period at every stage.

It is generally recommended that you remove your dentures overnight to give your gum tissue a chance to rest and recover from the pressure of wearing them throughout the day. This also allows you to soak your dentures in an antibacterial solution overnight, which helps to remove bacteria and keep them clean and fresh. Sleeping with dentures in on a long-term basis can increase the risk of gum irritation, bone loss under the gums, and fungal infections such as oral thrush. If you have specific concerns about removing your dentures, please discuss these with your dentist, who can offer personalised advice.