Dentures are one of the most common ways to replace missing teeth in the UK. They can restore your smile, improve chewing, support your lips and cheeks, and help with speech. For some people, dentures are a temporary solution while the mouth heals. For others, they are a long-term, affordable and practical alternative to dental bridges or implants.
But dentures are not all the same. A basic acrylic partial denture is very different from a chrome denture, a flexible denture, an immediate denture or an implant-retained denture. The right choice depends on how many teeth are missing, the condition of the remaining teeth, your gums, your budget, your appearance goals and how well you adapt to removable appliances.
This guide explains what dentures are, the different types available in the UK, how much dentures cost, whether dentures are available on the NHS, what the fitting process involves, how long dentures last, how to care for them, common problems, and alternatives such as dental bridges and implants.
If you are comparing tooth replacement options, you may also find our guides to dental bridges, dental implants in the UK, dental crowns and private dentist prices in the UK useful.
Quick summary
- Dentures are removable false teeth used to replace some or all missing teeth.
- Partial dentures replace one or more missing teeth; full dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw.
- Dentures can be made from acrylic, metal, flexible nylon-type materials or a combination of materials.
- NHS dentures are available when clinically necessary and are classed as Band 3 treatment in England.
- From 1 April 2026, NHS Band 3 dental treatment in England costs £332.10 and includes dentures, crowns and bridges.
- Private dentures in the UK commonly cost from around £500 to £2,500+, depending on type and quality.
- Dentures often need adjusting, relining, repairing or replacing over time as the mouth changes.
- Good cleaning is essential because dentures can collect plaque, food debris and stains.
- Alternatives include dental bridges, dental implants, implant-retained dentures and, in selected cases, leaving the gap alone.
What are dentures?
Dentures are removable false teeth that replace missing natural teeth. They sit over the gums and are designed to restore appearance and function. Dentures may replace a few missing teeth or a full arch of missing teeth.
NHS Inform describes dentures as removable false teeth made of acrylic, nylon or metal. They fit over the gums to replace missing teeth and can help prevent problems caused by gaps, such as eating and speech difficulties or neighbouring teeth drifting into the space. NHS Inform has further patient information about dentures.
Dentures may be used when teeth have been lost because of tooth decay, gum disease, trauma, failed dental work, infection or natural ageing. They can also be used temporarily after extractions while the mouth heals before a more permanent replacement is made.
Types of dentures
Dentures can be grouped in several ways. The most important distinction is whether they replace some teeth or all teeth.
Partial dentures
Partial dentures replace one or more missing teeth when some natural teeth remain. They usually clip around or rest against the remaining teeth for support.
Partial dentures can help:
- Fill visible gaps.
- Improve chewing.
- Support speech.
- Reduce unwanted movement of neighbouring teeth.
- Provide a lower-cost alternative to bridges or implants.
Partial dentures may be made from acrylic, metal, flexible material or a combination. The best type depends on the number of missing teeth, the strength of the remaining teeth, appearance and budget.
Full dentures
Full dentures, also called complete dentures, replace all the teeth in the upper jaw, lower jaw or both. They sit on the gums and rely on fit, suction, muscle control and sometimes denture adhesive for stability.
Upper full dentures often feel more stable than lower full dentures because the upper jaw provides a larger surface area and suction from the palate. Lower full dentures can be more challenging because the tongue, cheeks and smaller ridge can make them less stable.
Immediate dentures
Immediate dentures are fitted soon after teeth are removed. They mean you do not have to be without teeth while the gums heal.
However, the gums and jawbone change shape after extractions. This means immediate dentures often need adjustments, relining or replacement once healing has settled.
Temporary dentures
Temporary dentures may be used while waiting for healing, implants, bridges or final dentures. They are not always designed to be the best long-term solution, but they can help with appearance and function during a transition period.
Acrylic dentures
Acrylic dentures are made from pink plastic-like material that supports artificial teeth. They are commonly used for full dentures and many partial dentures.
Advantages of acrylic dentures include:
- Usually lower cost.
- Relatively easy to adjust.
- Can often be repaired or added to.
- Commonly available on the NHS where clinically appropriate.
Disadvantages include:
- Can feel bulkier than metal dentures.
- May be less stable in some partial denture designs.
- Can break if dropped.
- May need replacing as the mouth changes.
Chrome or cobalt-chrome dentures
Chrome dentures have a thin metal framework, usually with acrylic teeth and gum-coloured areas added. They are often used for partial dentures.
Advantages of chrome dentures include:
- Thinner and less bulky than many acrylic dentures.
- Strong and durable.
- Can feel more stable.
- Can be designed carefully around remaining teeth.
Disadvantages include:
- Usually more expensive privately.
- Metal clasps may be visible in some cases.
- May be harder to add teeth to later than acrylic dentures.
- Not suitable for every mouth.
Flexible dentures
Flexible dentures are made from a softer, flexible nylon-type material. They are usually used for partial dentures and can be more comfortable or discreet for some people.
Advantages may include:
- Flexible fit.
- Less visible clasps in some designs.
- May feel more comfortable for selected patients.
- Useful for some small gaps.
Disadvantages may include:
- Not suitable for every case.
- Can be harder to repair or adjust.
- May not be as stable as a well-designed metal denture.
- May not be ideal for larger gaps or complex bites.
Implant-retained dentures
Implant-retained dentures use dental implants to help hold the denture in place. They are often considered when conventional dentures are loose or uncomfortable, especially lower full dentures.
The denture usually clips onto attachments connected to implants. It can normally still be removed for cleaning, but it feels more stable than a conventional denture.
Implant-retained dentures are usually private treatment and cost much more than conventional dentures because they involve implant surgery, implant components and the denture itself.
Are dentures available on the NHS?
Yes. NHS dentures are available when your NHS dentist decides they are clinically necessary to treat a dental problem. NHS dentures are classed as Band 3 treatment in England. The NHS explains that dentures are Band 3 treatment and that an NHS dentist may offer dentures if you need them to treat a dental problem. You can read the NHS dentures page here.
From 1 April 2026, NHS Band 3 treatment in England costs £332.10. Band 3 includes all items in Bands 1 and 2, plus custom-made treatments such as crowns, dentures and bridges. The NHS dental treatment costs page lists the current charges.
Some people are entitled to free NHS dental treatment or help with NHS health costs, depending on age, income, benefits, pregnancy or other eligibility criteria. Always check current NHS guidance if you think you may qualify.
NHS dentures vs private dentures
NHS dentures are designed to restore function and oral health where clinically necessary. They can be excellent value if you can access NHS dental care. Private dentures usually cost more, but may offer more choice over materials, appearance, design, appointment time and laboratory options.
| Feature | NHS dentures | Private dentures |
|---|---|---|
| Cost in England | Band 3 charge: £332.10 from 1 April 2026, unless exempt | Often around £500 to £2,500+, sometimes more for premium or implant-retained options |
| Purpose | Clinically necessary replacement of missing teeth | Can include additional cosmetic, comfort or material choices |
| Materials | Based on clinical need and NHS provision | Wider choice may be available, including premium acrylic, chrome or flexible options |
| Appearance | Designed to be functional and acceptable | More customisation may be available for tooth shape, shade and gum aesthetics |
| Appointments | Depends on NHS access and practice capacity | May offer longer appointments or faster access |
| Repairs and adjustments | Some repairs or early adjustments may be covered depending on circumstances | Usually charged according to the practice fee guide unless included |
How much do private dentures cost in the UK?
Private denture costs vary widely. As a broad guide, private dentures in the UK commonly cost from around £500 to £2,500+, depending on the type, material, number of teeth and quality of the laboratory work.
| Denture type | Typical private UK cost range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Acrylic partial denture | Approximately £400 to £1,200+ | Often one of the lower-cost private options. |
| Acrylic full denture, single arch | Approximately £600 to £1,500+ | Replaces all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. |
| Full set of acrylic dentures | Approximately £1,000 to £3,000+ | Upper and lower complete dentures. |
| Chrome partial denture | Approximately £900 to £2,000+ | Usually thinner, stronger and more stable than basic acrylic partial dentures. |
| Flexible partial denture | Approximately £700 to £1,800+ | Can be comfortable and discreet in selected cases. |
| Premium cosmetic denture | Approximately £1,500 to £4,000+ | Greater focus on appearance, tooth choice and individual design. |
| Implant-retained denture | Often £4,000 to £10,000+ per arch | Depends on number of implants, attachments, scans and whether grafting is needed. |
| Denture repair | Approximately £50 to £200+ | Depends on repair type and whether impressions are needed. |
| Denture reline | Approximately £100 to £400+ | Improves fit when gums have changed. |
These are guide prices only. Always ask for a personalised quote and written treatment plan before agreeing to private dentures.
Why do denture prices vary?
Denture prices vary because dentures are custom-made appliances. The design, material, fit, bite, appearance and laboratory work all affect the final cost.
Prices may vary because of:
- Number of teeth replaced: a small partial denture usually costs less than a full arch.
- Material: acrylic, chrome and flexible materials have different costs.
- Complexity: difficult bites, severe bone loss or many missing teeth can be harder to manage.
- Laboratory quality: higher-quality teeth and gum aesthetics cost more.
- Appointments: better dentures may involve more stages, try-ins and adjustments.
- Private vs NHS: private dentures usually offer more choice but cost more.
- Implants: implant-retained dentures are much more expensive because surgery and implant components are involved.
What should be included in a denture quote?
Before agreeing to private dentures, ask what is included in the price.
A clear quote should explain:
- Consultation and assessment.
- X-rays, if needed.
- Extractions, if needed.
- Impressions or digital scans.
- Bite registration.
- Wax try-in appointment.
- Final denture fitting.
- Adjustment appointments.
- Repair or remake policy.
- Whether relines are included.
- Whether the denture is temporary, standard or premium.
- What future maintenance may cost.
The denture fitting process: step by step
Dentures are usually made over several appointments. The exact process depends on whether you need full, partial, immediate or implant-retained dentures.
1. Examination and treatment planning
Your dentist examines your mouth, remaining teeth, gums and bite. They may take X-rays to check roots, bone and teeth that may need treatment before dentures are made.
The dentist should discuss whether dentures are the best option or whether alternatives such as a bridge or implant may be suitable.
2. Treating dental problems first
If you have decay, gum disease, loose teeth, infection or broken teeth, these may need treatment before the final denture is made. Sometimes teeth need extracting before dentures are fitted.
If you have gum disease, read our guide to bleeding gums and gum disease.
3. Impressions or scans
The dentist takes impressions or digital scans of your mouth. These are used to make models so the denture can be designed and manufactured.
4. Bite registration
The dentist records how your upper and lower jaws meet. This is important for comfort, chewing and facial support.
5. Tooth shade and shape selection
You and your dentist may choose the shade, shape and size of the denture teeth. Private dentures may offer more choice and cosmetic customisation.
6. Wax try-in
A trial version of the denture may be made in wax. This lets you and your dentist check the appearance, bite and tooth position before the final denture is processed.
7. Final fitting
The finished denture is fitted. Your dentist checks comfort, bite, appearance and stability. It is common for dentures to need small adjustments after you start wearing them.
8. Adjustment appointments
New dentures can rub or feel strange at first. Adjustment appointments help improve comfort and fit. Do not keep wearing a denture that is causing a painful sore spot without contacting your dentist.
How long does it take to get dentures?
Standard dentures often take several weeks from first impressions to final fitting. The process may be quicker or slower depending on the number of appointments, whether extractions are needed, laboratory turnaround and whether you are having NHS or private treatment.
Immediate dentures can be fitted on the day teeth are removed, but they often need adjustments as healing progresses.
How long do dentures last?
Dentures can last several years, but they do not last forever. The Oral Health Foundation says dentures often need replacing every five to eight years to keep them fitting well and working properly. You can read its patient information on dentures here.
Dentures may need replacing sooner if:
- They become loose.
- They break or crack.
- Your gums and jawbone change shape.
- Your bite changes.
- They become badly worn.
- They no longer support your face properly.
- They cause repeated sore spots.
- Your remaining teeth change or are removed.
Do dentures feel strange at first?
Yes. New dentures often feel bulky, loose or unusual at first. Your mouth, cheeks, tongue and muscles need time to adapt.
In the first few weeks, you may notice:
- Increased saliva.
- Mild soreness.
- Difficulty speaking clearly.
- Difficulty chewing certain foods.
- A feeling that the denture is too large.
- Minor rubbing.
Many people adapt with time, practice and adjustments. However, persistent pain, ulcers, looseness or inability to eat should be reviewed by a dentist.
How to eat with new dentures
Eating with new dentures takes practice. Start slowly and choose softer foods while you adapt.
Helpful tips include:
- Start with soft foods cut into small pieces.
- Chew slowly.
- Use both sides of the mouth to balance pressure.
- Avoid very sticky foods at first.
- Avoid biting hard foods with front dentures until confident.
- Gradually reintroduce firmer foods.
If your denture repeatedly tips, moves or causes pain when chewing, ask your dentist to check the fit and bite.
How to speak with new dentures
Dentures can temporarily affect speech, especially sounds such as “s”, “f” and “th”. This usually improves with practice.
Try reading aloud at home, speaking slowly and repeating difficult words. If speech problems persist, your denture may need adjustment.
Should you sleep with dentures in?
Many dentists advise removing dentures at night to rest the gums and reduce the risk of irritation or infection. However, your dentist may give specific instructions depending on your situation, especially after immediate dentures or extractions.
If you remove dentures at night, keep them safely in water or a suitable denture-cleaning solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions and your dentist’s advice.
How to clean dentures
Dentures need daily cleaning. Plaque, food debris, stains and bacteria can build up on dentures just as they do on natural teeth.
Good denture cleaning usually includes:
- Removing dentures for cleaning.
- Brushing the dentures daily with a denture brush or soft toothbrush.
- Cleaning all denture surfaces, including the side that sits against the gums.
- Soaking in a denture-cleaning solution if advised.
- Following the manufacturer’s instructions for soaking products.
- Rinsing dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
- Cleaning your gums, tongue and any remaining teeth every day.
The Oral Health Foundation’s 2026 denture care guidance says denture-cleansing solutions should only be used outside the mouth and that wearers should follow manufacturers’ guidelines. You can read its denture care guidelines here.
What should you avoid when cleaning dentures?
Avoid anything that can damage, weaken or distort your dentures.
- Do not use bleach unless specifically advised by a dental professional.
- Do not use very hot or boiling water, as it can warp dentures.
- Do not use abrasive household cleaners.
- Do not scrub too harshly with a hard brush.
- Do not use household glue for repairs.
- Do not wear dentures while using cleaning tablets or soaking solutions.
Oxford Health NHS guidance warns against using bleaching products or very hot water to clean dentures because these can weaken or damage them. Its denture care leaflet gives practical cleaning advice.
Do dentures need toothpaste?
Standard toothpaste can be too abrasive for some denture materials. Many dentists recommend using a denture cleaner or mild soap with a denture brush, but advice can vary depending on the denture material. Ask your dentist or hygienist what is best for your denture.
Can dentures cause mouth infections?
Dentures can contribute to mouth irritation or infections if they are not cleaned properly, if they are worn continuously, or if they fit poorly. One common issue is denture stomatitis, where the tissue under a denture becomes red and inflamed.
Contact your dentist if you notice:
- Persistent redness under a denture.
- Burning or soreness.
- Cracks at the corners of the mouth.
- White patches.
- Bad taste or bad breath.
- Ulcers that do not heal.
A sore spot from a new denture is common, but a persistent ulcer should always be checked.
Can dentures improve facial appearance?
Yes. Missing teeth can reduce lip and cheek support, making the face look sunken or older. Well-made dentures can help support the lips and cheeks and restore a more natural appearance.
However, dentures should not be overbuilt just to “fill out” the face. Too much bulk can affect speech, comfort and appearance. Good denture design balances facial support, bite, comfort and natural-looking teeth.
Can dentures look natural?
Yes, dentures can look natural when well designed. Tooth shape, colour, position, gum colour and smile line all affect the result.
Private premium dentures may offer more cosmetic customisation, but NHS dentures can also be functional and acceptable when properly made. The key is good assessment, accurate impressions, bite records and communication about appearance.
What are denture adhesives?
Denture adhesive is a paste, powder or strip that can help improve denture stability. It can be useful for some people, especially while adapting to dentures or when extra security is needed.
However, adhesive should not be used to hide a badly fitting denture. If you need increasing amounts of adhesive, your denture may need adjusting, relining or replacing.
What is a denture reline?
A denture reline adds material to the fitting surface of a denture to improve how it sits against the gums. Relining may be needed because the gums and jawbone naturally change shape over time.
Relines are common after immediate dentures, weight loss, long-term denture wear or changes in the mouth. A reline can improve comfort and stability, but it cannot always fix a denture that is worn, poorly designed or very old.
What if dentures keep rubbing?
New dentures often need small adjustments. If a denture rubs, causes ulcers or feels painful, book an adjustment appointment. Do not try to file or alter the denture yourself.
If possible, wear the denture for a few hours before the appointment so the dentist can see exactly where it is rubbing.
What if dentures are loose?
Loose dentures can make eating and speaking difficult. They may also rub the gums and cause soreness.
Dentures can become loose because:
- The gums and bone have changed shape.
- The denture is worn.
- The bite has changed.
- Teeth have been added or removed.
- The denture was not fitting well from the start.
Possible solutions include adjustment, reline, remake, adhesive or implant-retained dentures.
Can broken dentures be repaired?
Many dentures can be repaired, but you should not use household glue. Glue can damage the denture, irritate the mouth and make professional repair harder.
Denture repair may be needed if:
- The denture cracks.
- A tooth breaks off.
- A clasp breaks.
- The denture snaps.
- The fit changes after damage.
Some repairs can be done quickly by a dental laboratory, while others need an impression or new denture.
Can teeth be added to a denture?
Sometimes. If you lose another tooth after having a partial denture, a dentist may be able to add a tooth to the denture. This is usually easier with acrylic dentures than chrome or flexible dentures, but it depends on the design.
Ask your dentist before extracting a tooth if you already wear a denture, so they can plan whether it can be adapted.
Dentures after tooth extraction
If teeth are removed, your dentist may recommend immediate dentures or waiting for healing before making final dentures.
Immediate dentures
Immediate dentures are fitted soon after extraction, so you are not left without teeth. They can help with appearance and protect the extraction areas, but they often need more adjustments.
Delayed dentures
Delayed dentures are made after the gums have healed and changed shape. This can provide a better long-term fit, but it may mean being without teeth for a period unless a temporary denture is used.
Your dentist should explain which approach is best for your situation.
Advantages of dentures
Dentures remain popular because they offer several advantages.
- They can replace several or all missing teeth.
- They are usually cheaper than implants.
- They avoid implant surgery.
- They may be available on the NHS when clinically necessary.
- They can improve appearance and facial support.
- They can improve chewing and speech.
- They can often be repaired or adjusted.
- They can be used temporarily while planning other treatment.
Disadvantages of dentures
Dentures also have limitations.
- They can feel bulky at first.
- They may move during eating or speaking.
- They can rub or cause sore spots.
- They need daily removal and cleaning.
- They may affect taste, especially upper full dentures covering the palate.
- They may need adhesive for extra security.
- They need adjustments as the mouth changes.
- They may break if dropped.
- They often need replacing every few years.
Dentures vs dental bridges
Dentures are removable. Dental bridges are usually fixed. A bridge may feel more stable and natural, but it often costs more and may involve drilling neighbouring teeth.
Dentures may be better if:
- Several teeth are missing.
- You want a lower-cost option.
- You do not want surgery.
- The neighbouring teeth are not suitable for a bridge.
- You need a temporary replacement after extractions.
A bridge may be better if:
- Only one or two teeth are missing.
- You want a fixed option.
- The supporting teeth are suitable.
- You do not want a removable appliance.
Read more: Dental Bridges Explained.
Dentures vs dental implants
Dentures replace missing teeth but sit on the gums. Dental implants replace missing tooth roots and can support crowns, bridges or dentures.
Conventional dentures may be better if:
- You want a lower-cost option.
- You want to avoid surgery.
- You have medical reasons that make implant surgery less suitable.
- You need to replace many teeth affordably.
Implants may be better if:
- You want a fixed or more stable solution.
- You struggle with loose dentures.
- You have enough bone and healthy gums.
- You are willing to pay more and undergo surgery.
Implant-retained dentures can be a middle option, giving removable dentures more stability.
Can dentures affect your remaining teeth?
Partial dentures can affect remaining teeth if they are poorly designed, poorly cleaned or worn without regular review. Clasps, plaque build-up and movement can increase risk of decay or gum problems around supporting teeth.
To protect remaining teeth:
- Clean your denture daily.
- Brush remaining teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean around clasps carefully.
- Attend regular check-ups.
- Report looseness or rubbing early.
Can dentures help if you have gum disease?
Dentures may replace teeth lost because of gum disease, but they do not cure gum disease. If you still have natural teeth, gum disease must be managed to protect them and help any partial denture fit well.
If gum disease is active, your dentist may recommend hygiene treatment, deeper cleaning, improved home care or referral before making final dentures.
Questions to ask before getting dentures
Before agreeing to dentures, ask your dentist:
- Do I need full or partial dentures?
- Are dentures available on the NHS in my case?
- What private options are available?
- What material do you recommend and why?
- Will I need teeth removed first?
- Should I have immediate or delayed dentures?
- How many appointments will I need?
- Will there be a try-in before the final denture?
- How natural will they look?
- How will I clean them?
- What if they rub or feel loose?
- Are adjustments included?
- How long should they last?
- Would a bridge or implant be better?
- Can I have a written treatment plan?
Red flags to watch out for
Be cautious if a clinic or provider:
- Does not examine your mouth properly before recommending dentures.
- Does not discuss NHS and private options clearly.
- Does not explain alternatives such as bridges or implants.
- Promises dentures will feel exactly like natural teeth.
- Does not explain adjustment or maintenance needs.
- Does not discuss cleaning.
- Gives a vague price without explaining what is included.
- Does not offer follow-up if dentures rub or feel loose.
When should you get a second opinion?
Consider a second opinion if:
- You have been told several teeth need extracting.
- You are unsure whether teeth can be saved.
- You are choosing between dentures, bridges and implants.
- You have had repeated problems with dentures.
- You are considering expensive private or implant-retained dentures.
- You feel rushed or pressured.
A good dentist should not object if you want to understand your options before making a major decision.
How to choose a dentist for dentures
Dentures require careful design and follow-up. A good dentist should assess your mouth fully, explain options clearly and help you adapt after fitting.
Look for:
- Clear explanation of NHS and private options.
- Experience with full and partial dentures.
- Discussion of bridges and implants as alternatives.
- Good communication about appearance and expectations.
- A try-in stage where appropriate.
- Clear advice on cleaning and maintenance.
- Adjustment appointments after fitting.
- No pressure selling.
You can browse local dental providers through All Health and Care, including our Top 10 Dentists in the UK and local pages such as Top 10 Dentists in London.
Final thoughts
Dentures are a tried-and-tested way to replace missing teeth. They can improve appearance, chewing, speech and confidence, and they are often more affordable than bridges or implants. NHS dentures can be especially good value when clinically necessary and available.
However, dentures require patience. They can feel strange at first, may need adjustments, and must be cleaned carefully every day. Over time, your mouth changes, so dentures may need relining, repairing or replacing.
Before choosing dentures, make sure you understand the type recommended, whether NHS treatment is available, what private options cost, how the dentures will be maintained and whether alternatives such as bridges or implants may be better for your situation.
For more patient-friendly dental guides, visit our Dental Health & Dentistry section.
Frequently asked questions about dentures in the UK
What are dentures?
Dentures are removable false teeth used to replace missing teeth. They can replace some teeth with a partial denture or all teeth in a jaw with a full denture.
Are dentures available on the NHS?
Yes. NHS dentures are available when clinically necessary. In England, dentures are classed as Band 3 treatment, which costs £332.10 from 1 April 2026 unless you are exempt.
How much do private dentures cost in the UK?
Private dentures commonly cost from around £500 to £2,500+, depending on type, material and complexity. Implant-retained dentures can cost several thousand pounds more.
What is the difference between full and partial dentures?
Full dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Partial dentures replace one or more missing teeth while some natural teeth remain.
What are acrylic dentures?
Acrylic dentures are made from a plastic-like material. They are commonly used for full dentures and many partial dentures and are often a lower-cost option.
What are chrome dentures?
Chrome dentures have a thin metal framework. They are often stronger, thinner and more stable than acrylic partial dentures, but they usually cost more privately.
What are flexible dentures?
Flexible dentures are made from a softer flexible material. They can be comfortable and discreet in selected cases but are not suitable for everyone.
What are implant-retained dentures?
Implant-retained dentures clip onto dental implants for better stability. They are usually private treatment and cost more than conventional dentures.
How long do dentures last?
Dentures can last several years, but they often need replacing every five to eight years because the mouth changes over time and the denture wears.
Do dentures hurt?
New dentures can cause sore spots while your mouth adapts. Persistent pain, ulcers or rubbing should be checked by your dentist and may need adjustment.
Will dentures feel strange?
Yes, dentures often feel bulky or unusual at first. Most people adapt with time, practice and adjustments.
Can I eat normally with dentures?
Many people eat well with dentures after adapting. Start with soft foods, cut food into small pieces and chew slowly on both sides.
Can dentures affect speech?
Dentures can temporarily affect speech, especially at first. Reading aloud and practising difficult words can help.
Should I sleep with dentures in?
Many dentists advise removing dentures at night to rest the gums, but follow your dentist’s advice, especially after extractions or immediate dentures.
How do I clean dentures?
Remove and brush dentures daily, clean all surfaces, soak them if advised, rinse thoroughly before wearing, and clean your gums, tongue and remaining teeth every day.
Can I use toothpaste on dentures?
Some toothpastes can be abrasive for denture materials. Ask your dentist what cleaner is suitable for your denture.
Can I use bleach to clean dentures?
Do not use bleach unless specifically advised by a dental professional. Bleach can damage or weaken dentures.
Can I put dentures in hot water?
Avoid very hot or boiling water because it can warp or damage dentures.
What if my dentures are loose?
Loose dentures may need adjustment, relining or replacement. Denture adhesive may help temporarily, but it should not hide a poor fit.
What is a denture reline?
A reline adds material to the fitting surface of a denture to improve fit when the gums and jawbone have changed shape.
Can broken dentures be repaired?
Many broken dentures can be repaired professionally. Do not use household glue, as it can damage the denture and irritate your mouth.
Can teeth be added to an existing denture?
Sometimes. It is usually easier with acrylic dentures than chrome or flexible dentures, but it depends on the design.
Are dentures better than bridges?
Dentures are removable and often cheaper. Bridges are fixed and may feel more stable but can involve drilling neighbouring teeth. The best option depends on your mouth.
Are dentures better than implants?
Dentures are cheaper and avoid surgery. Implants can be more stable and fixed but cost more and require surgery. Implant-retained dentures can combine features of both.
Do dentures look natural?
Well-made dentures can look natural. Appearance depends on tooth shape, shade, position, gum colour and how well the denture supports your face.
Can dentures cause bad breath?
Yes, if they are not cleaned properly. Plaque and food debris can build up on dentures and cause odour, irritation or infection.
When should I replace dentures?
Dentures may need replacing if they are loose, worn, broken, uncomfortable, affecting your bite or no longer supporting your face properly.
Should I get a second opinion before dentures?
Consider a second opinion if several teeth are being removed, you are unsure whether teeth can be saved, or you are choosing between dentures, bridges and implants.