Treatments
Bridges
If you don’t have many missing teeth, or if your missing teeth are all on one side of your mouth, your Holland House Dental Care dentist may recommend a bridge. A bridge will literally bridge the gap left by missing teeth.
Dentures are used to replace several missing teeth or a full set of teeth. They can help restore the look and function of your natural smile and may be suitable if you are looking for a removable option to replace missing teeth. Gaps can affect how you eat and speak, place extra strain on nearby teeth, and cause your bite to change over time. The bone loss associated with tooth loss can also affect facial shape, and may increase the risk of further tooth loss if left untreated.
Your dentist will discuss whether dentures are suitable for you and explain the different options available.
Complete dentures
Complete dentures are used when all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. They sit over your gums and are usually made from an acrylic base coloured to match your gums, with artificial teeth attached. Your dentist will take detailed measurements of your mouth so your dentures can be made to fit as comfortably as possible.
Partial dentures
Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They replace one or more missing teeth and are designed to fit around your existing teeth. Partial dentures are usually supported by a metal framework that helps keep them in place.
It’s common to notice a short adjustment period when you first start wearing dentures, and your speech may feel slightly different at first. This usually improves as you become used to how the dentures feel in your mouth, and most people return to speaking normally with a little practice. Your dentist will be able to offer advice and reassurance during this adjustment period if needed.
Dentures need to be cleaned daily, just like natural teeth. Plaque, tartar and stains can build up on dentures in much the same way as it can on natural teeth.
Removable dentures should be taken out and cleaned with a soft brush. They are usually rinsed and soaked overnight using a denture-cleaning solution.
It’s also important to keep your mouth clean by gently brushing your gums and tongue with a soft toothbrush and rinsing with a fluoride-free mouthwash.
If you would like to find out more about dentures, please contact Holland House Dental Care to book an appointment.
Treatments
If you don’t have many missing teeth, or if your missing teeth are all on one side of your mouth, your Holland House Dental Care dentist may recommend a bridge. A bridge will literally bridge the gap left by missing teeth.
Dentures
Will dentures affect my speech?
For many people there is a period of adjustment when you first get your dentures fitted, in which speaking may be more difficult than before. But this is normally a case of getting used to the feel of them, and you’ll soon be back to speaking normally with a little practise. Your Portman dentist will be able to help you with this.
Dentures
Do dentures make eating difficult?
Eating may be difficult at first. Eating with dentures is slightly different to eating with natural teeth as they are not rooted as deep in your mouth. You will be used to a biting and tearing method but this will need to be adapted to focus more on biting. It can take some getting used to.
Dentures
Will I need to clean my dentures?
Dentures must be cleaned as plaque can still build up on them. While brushing after meals is recommended, the most practical way of cleaning dentures is to take them out and carefully brush them over the sink with a special denture brush. Be sure to rinse them well afterwards.
Dentures
Why do dentures have to come out at night?
This may not be compulsory but it is highly recommended. If you soak them overnight in an approved denture cleaner, they will be clean and fresh the next day.
Next steps
If you're ready to book an appointment, get in touch today.