Dentures (Full)

People who have lost all the teeth in an upper or lower arch may use complete dentures; missing teeth can make eating and speaking difficult.

New dentures commonly cause sore spots 24 to 48 hours after first wear. A pressure area can take up to a week to heal after adjustment.

Daily cleaning prevents food debris, staining, and plaque from building up; poor cleaning can lead to irritation, infection, and mouth odour.

Standard dentures usually take a few weeks to make and fit. Immediate dentures can be made within a few days but may need adjustment or replacement as the mouth heals.

The mouth is measured and a mould is made with putty, although a scan may be used instead. The denture is made, then fitted at another appointment.

Sore spots are common during early wear. Dentures need cleaning after meals and soaking can loosen stains or deposits; hot water and abrasive pastes can damage them.

Bridges are fixed to other teeth. Dental implants are fixed to the jawbone and can support crowns or some types of dentures.

A new denture may need review and adjustment for sore areas. Do not attempt to adjust or repair it yourself.

Replacement dentures carry NHS dental charges in the described NHS system.