Dentures
Dentures at Ferny Hills Dental
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable dental appliances used to replace missing teeth. They are designed to look natural, function comfortably, and help maintain the structure of your face by supporting your cheeks and lips.
There are two main types of dentures:
- Full Dentures: Used when all teeth in the upper or lower arch are missing. These rest directly on the gums.
- Partial Dentures: Used when some natural teeth remain. These use metal clasps or precision attachments to anchor to neighbouring teeth.
We offer both acrylic and metal-based partial dentures. While acrylic is typically more affordable, metal partials are thinner, stronger, and more comfortable over the long term.
What’s Involved in Getting Dentures?
Dentures are custom-made over a series of appointments to ensure a comfortable and accurate fit. At Ferny Hills Dental, the denture process generally includes:
- Comprehensive Assessment
We begin with a thorough examination of your mouth, including X-rays if needed, to assess the health of your gums, jawbone, and any remaining teeth. - Dental Impressions or Digital Scan
We take precise moulds or digital scans of your gums and teeth to ensure your denture fits comfortably and securely. - Try-In Stage
Before finalising the denture, we create a wax model for you to try in. This allows us to check for fit, comfort, bite alignment, and aesthetics — including colour and tooth shape. - Final Fit and Adjustment
Once you’re happy with the fit, your final denture is fabricated in our local dental laboratory and fitted at a subsequent visit. - Ongoing Support
We’ll review your progress and make any minor adjustments necessary to improve comfort and function.
Benefits of Dentures
Modern dentures are a practical and cost-effective solution for many people. The benefits include:
- Restored ability to eat and chew more comfortably
- Improved appearance and facial support
Enhanced speech and pronunciation - Boosted self-confidence
- Removable for cleaning and care
- A more affordable alternative to implants or bridges
What to Expect When Wearing Dentures
It’s completely normal to go through a short adjustment period when you first start wearing dentures. You may experience:
- A feeling of fullness in your mouth
- Slight difficulty speaking clearly or eating certain foods
- Increased saliva production
- Mild soreness or pressure
With time and regular use, most patients adjust well. Our dentists are here to support you through the process and can make adjustments to enhance comfort as needed.
Caring for Your Dentures
Proper care helps extend the life of your denture and protects your oral health. We recommend:
- Cleaning your dentures daily with a soft denture brush and cleanser (not regular toothpaste)
- Removing dentures at night to give your gums a rest
- Soaking dentures in a cleaning solution overnight
- Attending regular dental check-ups to monitor oral health and denture fit
Our team will give you personalised advice on denture care based on your specific needs.
Are Dentures Right for You?
Dentures are suitable for many patients with missing teeth, but they are not the only option. At your consultation, we will assess your oral health and discuss all suitable treatments, including implants and bridges, to help you make an informed decision.
We are here to help you find the solution that restores your comfort, confidence, and quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dentures last?
Will dentures affect how I speak or eat?
How should I clean my dentures?
Clean them daily with a soft brush and denture cleaner, and leave them on the counter to dry over night.