What are dentures?
Dentures can be used for people who are missing all or some of their teeth. Dentures can be made to look as natural as possible and comparable to your existing teeth, or teeth you previously had.
Dentures can be made to be well fitting, depending on your individual needs, and are removable for cleaning. They can be made from many different materials; your dentist will explain the differences to you at your consultation and advise which may be the most suitable for you. When you start wearing dentures, it may take some time to get used to eating and speaking with them. It is recommended to start with soft foods and allow your mouth to adjust comfortably during this transition.
Benefits of replacing missing teeth
Replacing missing teeth is one of the most restorative treatments in dentistry. It allows you to recreate the appearance and function of your natural teeth and is essential to maintaining good oral health, optimal function and aesthetic appearance. Losing teeth can affect your ability to eat, speak and socialise. Tooth replacement can help you achieve the following:
- Restore natural appearance and facial contours – full tooth replacement helps to maintain the optimal shape of your face and enhances the appearance of the surrounding facial tissues.
- Improved ability to chew food and maintain an adequate diet – a missing tooth can interfere with proper mastication of certain types of food. By undergoing a tooth replacement procedure, you will be able to masticate food more effectively and eat a varied diet.
- Improved ability to make sounds and communicate effectively – your teeth play a vital role in your communication. Restoring your teeth with a tooth replacement procedure can improve the way you speak and communicate.
- Enhanced psychological well-being and quality-of-life measures – full restoration of the dentition can lead to an improvement in patient self-perception, social confidence, and interpersonal relationships as well as facilitate more successful daily functioning.
- Prevention of secondary oral complications – failure to replace missing teeth can result in drifting of the remaining dentition and its associated oral health problems. The restoration of the dentition helps maintain proper alignment and aids in the preservation of the remaining natural teeth.
Types of Dentures
Dentures are a popular solution for replacing missing teeth. There are two main types of dentures: partial dentures and complete dentures.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are designed to replace one or more missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They are typically made of acrylic or metal and are attached to the remaining natural teeth using clasps or brackets. Partial dentures are a great option for individuals who have some remaining teeth and want to restore their natural smile. These dentures not only fill the gaps left by missing teeth but also help in maintaining the alignment of your remaining teeth, preventing them from shifting.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures, also known as full dentures, are designed to replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They are typically made of acrylic or porcelain and are held in place by suction or dental implants. Complete dentures are suitable for individuals who have lost all their teeth and aim to restore their smile and improve their ability to eat and speak properly. These dentures provide a comprehensive solution, allowing you to regain full functionality and aesthetics of your mouth.
Please call to enquire about the price
More about pricingBefore fitting
You do not need a referral for a denture appointment. Several appointments are needed before your final denture is fitted. This can take a few weeks as the dentist works closely with a skilled dental technician to construct the denture.
Immediate dentures can be used right after tooth extractions as a temporary solution during the healing period.
Appointments 1-2
Impressions/moulds are taken of your teeth and/or mouth by the dentist or dental nurse.
You may like to bring in some photographs that show how your smile used to be, if you wish for this to be copied onto your new denture.
Appointment 3
The dentist will measure your jaws and the space between them to ensure your bite is correct.
Appointment 4
The dental technician will create a model, or wax form, of your denture with the teeth in position. The dentist will then try the denture in your mouth and will assess the colour, shape and fit before the final denture is made.
During fitting
Appointment 5
Your final denture is fitted by the dentist. At this appointment, the dentist ensures the dentures fit comfortably, function properly, and look natural. The process begins with placing the dentures in your mouth to assess how they sit on the gums and align with your bite.
The dentist checks for any pressure points, discomfort, or loose areas that may require adjustments. If needed, they will trim or reshape the denture to improve the fit. You may be asked to speak, bite, and chew to evaluate functionality, ensuring the dentures remain stable without slipping or clicking.
Once the fit is satisfactory, the dentist polishes the dentures and provides care instructions, including how to insert, remove, and clean them, as well as what foods to avoid initially.
After fitting
Appointment 6
During this review, the dentist will check for any sore spots or irritation caused by the new dentures, ensuring a comfortable fit. They may also provide guidance on how to adapt to wearing dentures, such as practicing speaking and chewing to improve confidence and functionality.
It’s important to follow the aftercare instructions meticulously to avoid complications, such as infections or damage to the dentures. Additionally, the dentist will discuss the importance of regular maintenance and the potential need for future adjustments as your mouth naturally changes over time.
This proactive approach helps in preventing issues that could arise from ill-fitting dentures, ensuring they continue to serve their purpose effectively.
Denture care and maintenance
Proper denture care and maintenance are essential for extending the life of dentures and preventing oral health problems.
Cleaning dentures is an important part of denture care and maintenance. To keep your dentures in optimal condition, it’s essential to use a non-abrasive denture cleaner along with a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently remove food particles and plaque without scratching the denture surface. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and may damage the denture material.
It’s also recommended to soak your dentures in a denture cleaning solution or water overnight to effectively remove plaque and bacteria, ensuring they remain fresh and clean. Before placing them back in your mouth, rinse them thoroughly to ensure no cleaning solution residue remains, which could cause irritation.
Additionally, avoid chewing gum or eating sticky foods, as these can damage dentures and affect their fit. By following these tips, you can keep your dentures clean, comfortable, and functional for years to come. Regular dental check-ups and adjustments are also crucial to ensure that your dentures fit properly and function optimally.
Appointment and Treatment Plan
Appointments 1-2
You do not need a referral for a denture fitting appointment. during this appointment, impressions/moulds are taken of your teeth and/or mouth by the dentist or dental nurse.
Appointment 3
The dentist will take measurements of how your jaws relate to one another and how much space is between them to get your bite right.
Appointment 4
The dental technician will create a model, or wax form, of your denture with the teeth in position. The dentist will then try the denture in your mouth and will assess the colour, shape and fit before the final denture is made.
Appointment 5
Your final denture is fitted by the dentist.
Appointment 6
During this review, the dentist will check for any sore spots or irritation caused by the new dentures, ensuring a comfortable fit.
Maintenance
Proper denture care and maintenance are essential for extending the life of dentures and preventing oral health problems.
Experts
We are proud to provide patients with access to a wide range of clinicians, chosen specifically for their knowledge and reputation in their area of expertise. Our experts align with our values: putting you at the centre of your care and educating you on your options at each step of the journey. We encourage you to learn more about our clinicians and how they can help you below. As always, please contact our patient services team if you require any additional information.
We offer 3 ways to pay for your treatment
We exist to take the stress out of private healthcare.
Our payment options are designed to offer you easy access to our treatments and services. You can choose to pay on the day, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance.
Our patient services team will guide you through the process, providing clear costs and support throughout your course of treatment so you can focus on the thing that matters most – your health.
Whether you pay in advance, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance, rest assured you will be receiving exceptional care 365 days a year.
Pay in Advance
Even if you do not have medical insurance, you can still get quick and comprehensive access to private medical care.
We provide transparent pricing from your initial consultation to the completion of your treatment so you know where your stand, every step of the way.
We accept all major debit and credit cards, as well as Apple Pay for UK residents. Please note that we do not accept cash or cheques.
Pay monthly
Paying for your treatment at OSD Healthcare doesn’t need to mean settling the full cost in one go.
Many of our treatments have a pay monthly option that allows you to spread the cost of your treatment over 12 months with no credit checks required.
A minimum spend of £300 does apply. We’ll take your first payment upfront and then arrange a direct debit for your monthly payments thereafter. It’s that simple.
Pay using PMI
We are recognised by all major health insurance companies and with our extensive range of services, there are lots of benefits to using your insurance with us. Our patient services team is here to answer any questions you may have about using your private health insurance with us.
Please bring along your policy details including your scheme details, membership or policy number, expiry date and confirmation of eligibility to claim (i.e. your authorisation number). If you do not have these details with you, we will require payment from you on the day. Patients are liable for any amounts not settled by their insurer.