Full dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace all missing teeth in a patient’s upper arch, lower arch, or both. These prosthetics consist of artificial teeth set into a gum-colored base, restoring a complete smile and improving the overall facial structure. The primary goal of wearing full dentures is to re-establish the ability to chew food effectively, speak clearly, and maintain a natural facial appearance that may have sagged due to tooth loss.
The Anatomy and Purpose of Full Dentures
A full denture is composed of two primary parts: the prosthetic teeth and the denture base. The artificial teeth are typically crafted from durable acrylic resin or porcelain, chosen to match the natural shade and shape of a person’s former dentition. The pink-colored base material, usually made from acrylic resin, mimics the look of the natural gums and rests directly on the residual alveolar ridges.
The retention of an upper denture relies heavily on adhesion and suction against the palate, while lower dentures often depend more on muscle control from the tongue and cheeks for stability. Dentures serve a functional purpose by allowing the wearer to masticate food, which aids in digestion. They also provide structural support for the facial muscles and lips, preventing the sunken appearance that often accompanies the complete loss of natural teeth.
There are two main types of full dentures based on timing of placement. A conventional denture is fabricated after all remaining teeth have been extracted and the gum tissues have fully healed, a process that can take several months. Conversely, an immediate denture is prepared in advance and inserted immediately after the teeth are removed. Immediate dentures act as a temporary measure and require relining or replacement later as the jawbone and gums change shape during the healing period.
The Steps to Receiving Full Dentures
Receiving a well-fitting full denture requires a series of detailed appointments with the dental professional. The initial step involves taking preliminary impressions of the patient’s mouth tissues using a soft, moldable material to create diagnostic casts. These models allow the dental laboratory to fabricate custom trays for subsequent, more precise final impressions.
The final impressions capture the exact contours of the gums and underlying bone structure, which is foundational for the denture’s retention and stability. Next, the dentist determines the correct vertical dimension and bite relationship using wax rims set on a temporary base. This step, known as bite registration, ensures the upper and lower dentures align correctly for chewing.
A wax try-in appointment is scheduled where the prosthetic teeth are temporarily set in wax onto the denture base. This stage is important because it allows the patient and dentist to assess the aesthetics, including tooth shade, size, and alignment, before the denture is permanently processed. Any necessary adjustments to the bite or appearance are made at this time, as changes are difficult once the final acrylic processing is complete.
Once approved, the wax model is sent back to the lab where the acrylic is processed to create the final denture. The final delivery appointment involves placing the completed appliance and checking for fit and comfort, often followed by minor adjustments to eliminate pressure spots. Follow-up visits are necessary over the following weeks to address any sore spots that develop as the mouth adapts to the new appliance.
Daily Care and Long-Term Adaptation
Daily maintenance keeps full dentures clean and preserves the health of oral tissues. Dentures should be removed and cleaned at least twice daily by brushing all surfaces with a soft-bristled denture brush and a non-abrasive cleanser. Regular toothpaste should be avoided, as its abrasive particles can create microscopic scratches on the acrylic surface, allowing bacteria and fungi to accumulate.
Dentures should be stored in water or a dentist-approved soaking solution when not worn to prevent the acrylic from drying out and warping. Giving the oral tissues a rest by removing the dentures for six to eight hours daily helps prevent inflammation and promotes better circulation in the gum tissue. The wearer should also gently brush their gums, tongue, and palate with a soft brush to maintain overall oral hygiene.
The initial adjustment period involves challenges with speaking, as the tongue must learn to navigate the new appliance, and difficulty with eating harder foods. Over time, the supportive bone structure beneath the gums naturally shrinks in a process called alveolar ridge resorption. This change causes the denture to gradually lose its fit, potentially leading to instability and sore spots.
The denture will periodically require a reline, where the inner surface is resurfaced to conform to the new gum contours. Even with meticulous care and relining, most full dentures will need to be completely replaced after approximately seven to ten years due to wear, bone changes, and compromised function. Regular dental checkups are necessary to monitor the denture’s fit and the health of the mouth tissues.