Did you know that approximately 10 per cent of Australians experience functional dentition (meaning they have 21 or fewer teeth)? It’s a common issue in our society, but thankfully there are solutions out there to help those suffering.

If you’re struggling with significant tooth loss, it’s quite likely you could benefit from dentures — removable replacements for missing teeth, as well as the tissues that surround them — now or in the future.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about dentures, including the different types, signs you might need them, and how to choose the right option for your dental needs.

Who Needs Dentures?

Dentures are a good fit for many people struggling with tooth loss. Here are some signs that you might be a good candidate for this type of dental treatment:

• You have multiple missing or damaged teeth

• You have lost a significant amount of jawbone mass as a result of tooth decay, extractions, etc.

• You’re looking for a more cost-effective tooth replacement option (especially compared to other treatments like dental implants)

People of all ages can benefit from dentures to correct tooth loss. However, dentures are most common among older adults who have lost several teeth

Not only do dentures cover up signs of missing teeth, but they can also improve your speech and your ability to use your jaws and teeth properly.

Types of Dentures

Dentures come in a variety of styles, including the following:

Full Dentures

Full dentures replace an entire row of teeth. They can be removable or fixed and are typically made with an acrylic base.

These types of dentures are best for patients who have several missing or damaged teeth.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures replace one missing tooth — or a few missing teeth. As is the case with full dentures, they can be removable or fixed.

Partial dentures can be made with a variety of materials, including acrylic and porcelain.

Denture Implants

Implant retained dentures are fixed and use permanent dental implants to keep them in place. Implants are attached directly to the gums and do a great job of keeping dentures stable.

For those who don’t want to worry about removing and replacing dentures regularly, implant-retained dentures are an excellent choice.

Immediate Dentures

Immediate dentures usually serve as temporary replacements. They fill spaces left by extracted teeth and save those who are waiting for dentures from having to walk around with gaps in their smile.

Immediate dentures can be full or partial dentures. It depends on how many teeth you’re missing.

Variations of Dentures

In addition to the main types of dentures discussed above, they also come in a few different variations, including these:

Digital Dentures

Digital dentures are created using CAD (computer-aided design) or CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) technology. These tools make it easier to build dentures that match the patient’s exact specifications and offer maximum comfort.

It’s easy to recreate dentures made using these technologies, too. This is good news for those who have concerns about replacing their dentures in the future if they become damaged.

Abe Lower Suction Dentures

Abe Lower Suction dentures are a variation of full dentures created by a Japanese dentist named Dr Jiro Abe. These dentures replace teeth in the lower arch and provide a high level of suction and stability.

In the past, full dentures have been difficult to fit and provide maximum stability, but Abe Lower Suction dentures offer an effective solution to this problem.

BPS Dentures

BPS is short for Bio-Functional Prosthetic System.

BPS Dentures are made using an in-depth manufacturing system, complete with unique products, instruments, techniques, and processes. Dentures made using this system are high-quality and designed to provide maximum comfort.

What Happens During a Denture Fitting?

If you decide you want to get dentures, you’ll need to schedule an appointment for a fitting at a denture clinic. During the fitting, you can expect the following:

• The proth will take moulds of your mouth to create dentures tailored specifically to you

• The proth will use wax blocks to make bite moulds and understand your biting action

• You will choose the shape and colour of your new teeth

• Your teeth will be set in wax to help you see what the finished dentures will look like

From here, the moulds will be made on site.

When the dentures are ready, you’ll go back to test them out and make sure they fit properly. If there are any issues, such as sores on your gums, the proth may take additional moulds and make the adjustments.

Keep in mind, too, that you may need to have teeth removed before your denture fitting — especially if they are decayed. Denture Haus will let you know if this is the case before they move into the other stages of the fitting process.

What to Expect After Getting Dentures

It’s normal to feel a bit uncomfortable after getting dentures, even if they fit properly.

You may struggle to eat or speak at first. You might also notice an increase in saliva production, as well as soreness in your jaw or facial muscles.

With enough practice, you’ll soon feel more comfortable and confident in your new teeth.

For most people, this happens after 3 to 6 weeks. During this time, the muscles in your jaw and face will adjust and the dentures will start to feel more natural.

To speed up the process and feel comfortable as soon as possible, make sure you wear your new dentures consistently. If you don’t wear them regularly, it’ll be harder to adjust.

Stick to soft foods, too, and avoid anything hard or chewy. Practise reading and speaking aloud, as well, no matter how awkward it feels, so you can get used to moving your jaws and tongue with dentures in place.

Need Help Making a Decision?

Are you interested in getting some dentures but not sure what kind you need? Do you have additional concerns about the process or the benefits dentures offer?

Get in touch with Denture Haus today to book a free consultation. We’ve been providing Brisbane top quality dentures for years, and our experienced team will happily answer any questions you may have.