The denture: when too many teeth are missing
Removable does not mean second choice – often it is the only one that holds.
A denture is used when so many teeth are missing that a bridge can no longer span the gap, or when the remaining teeth would not carry a bridge. It rests on the jaw and is taken out for cleaning.
The three designs
Partial denture: some of your own teeth are still there for it to hold on to – with clasps or with invisible attachments.
Full denture: the jaw is edentulous. In the upper jaw it holds by suction against the palate; in the lower jaw that is considerably more difficult.
Telescopic denture: the remaining teeth receive inner crowns, the denture the matching outer crowns. It sits more firmly than a clasp denture and cannot be recognised as a denture from outside.
Getting used to it
The first weeks are the hardest: the denture feels large, speech sounds strange, eating has to be learned again. That passes – for most people within two to four weeks. Pressure sores are part of it and are adjusted in short appointments; nobody should have to put up with them.
What changes later
The jawbone slowly recedes under a denture. After a few years it therefore sits more loosely. That is not a fault in the work but a biological process – and the reason why a denture has to be relined from time to time.
The most important points at a glance
- A denture comes into use when a bridge can no longer span the gap.
- In the upper jaw a full denture holds by suction; in the lower jaw that rarely works well.
- Two implants in the lower jaw are the greatest gain in hold for a manageable effort.
- The jaw changes – relining every five to ten years is normal, not a defect.
- Pressure sores are part of settling in and are worked on afterwards; lasting pain is not.
Answered briefly
Frequently asked questions
The jawbone recedes once the tooth roots are missing. The denture then no longer fits exactly. Relining restores the fit.
As a rule every five to ten years, more often in the first years after tooth loss.
During the settling-in period yes, and they are adjusted. Lasting pain or open sores are not normal.
Daily with a denture brush and liquid soap over a basin filled with water. No toothpaste – it scratches the acrylic.
As a rule yes, so that the mucosa can recover. Exceptions are discussed at the practice.
The clasp denture holds and is inexpensive, but the clasps are visible. The telescopic denture sits more firmly and is discreet, but costs considerably more.
Only if the hold comes from your own teeth or from implants. A full denture that merely rests in place needs the suction surface.