Dentures are removable prostheses that replace missing teeth and associated structures (gums and bone). They can provide you with better soft tissue support (lips and cheeks). Initially, they may feel foreign particularly if you had not previously had the missing teeth replaced. This may cause hyper-salivation (increase salivary flow) in the first few hours. Speech can get affected particularly with upper dentures. As you get used to the dentures, these symptoms will subside.

The dentures are kept in place by clasps (metal projections), muscle control (tongue, cheek and lip muscles) or a combination of both. Eating with the dentures requires some practice. Start with soft foods cutting everything into small pieces. Do not use the front teeth to incise food as this will dislodge the dentures. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent the denture from tipping. Be cautious with hot and hard foods.  As you become accustomed to chewing, add other foods until you return to your normal diet.

New dentures can lead to minor irritation or discomfort. You will be given review appointments to ensure the comfort of the denture and for relieving any sore spots that may arise.

How to look after dentures?

Always use your fingers to place, remove or adjust your denture.

Do not bite the denture into its position, as this will result in stresses to both your
teeth and your dentures leading to fractures.

To keep your denture clean