A denture is a removable replacement to replace missing teeth and tissue. It is supported by surrounding soft and hard tissues of the mouth. Though dentures are removable, there are many different denture designs, some which rely on bonding or clipping onto teeth or dental implants. A denture is made of acrylic resin, sometimes in combination with various metals. Complete or Full dentures replace all the teeth, while a partial denture fills in the spaces created by missing teeth and prevents other teeth from changing position.
Caring for your dentures
A denture is fragile, so it is important to handle it with care. Remove and brush the denture daily, preferably with a brush designed specifically for cleaning dentures, using either a denture cleanser or toothpastes. Never use harsh, abrasive cleansers, including abrasives toothpastes, because they may scratch the surface of the denture. If you wear a partial denture be sure to remove it before brushing your natural teeth.
When not in use, soak your denture it in a cleanser solution or in water. Get in the habit of keeping the denture in the same safe and handy place to reduce the likelihood of misplacement.
Unless you have had a denture fitted on the same day as you have had teeth taken out your dentist will recommend that you remove your denture each night. Research has shown that removing the denture for at least eight hours during either the day or night allows the gum tissue to rest and allows normal stimulation and cleansing by the tongue and saliva. This promotes better long-term health of the gums.
Your mouth will continue to change as the bone under your denture shrinks or recedes. To maintain a proper fit over time, it may be necessary to adjust your denture or possibly remake your denture. Never attempt to adjust a denture yourself and do not use denture adhesives for a prolonged period because it can contribute to bone loss. When in doubt, consult your dentist.