What is a complete removable denture?
A complete removable denture is a prosthesis that replaces all your teeth on your upper and/or lower jaw, fitting over your existing gums, and comes in and out of your mouth, without the help of a dental professional. After taking scans of your mouth, our doctors will design a custom-fit, comfortable prosthesis, working closely with you to determine the shape, color, and size of the teeth, creating a natural looking and beautiful smile. Once you receive your new denture there will be a brief period where you will be adjusting to wearing the prosthesis before it may feel completely natural. During this period, you may need to come back to our office for a reline of your denture base, this is where the doctor will adjust the inside of the base that fits over your gums and is a normal part of the denture process.
How to care for your complete removable denture
Proper care of your complete removable denture is crucial for maintaining good oral health and ensuring the longevity of your prosthesis. Like natural teeth, your denture requires daily cleaning to maintain its optimal appearance and function.
It is important to clean your dentures and underlying gum tissue at home each day; if not cleaned properly, they can become damaged and develop bacteria that can be harmful to your health.
- Brush and rinse your dentures with a nonabrasive denture toothpaste, and rinse your denture after eating to prevent the buildup of bacteria.
- Gently clean your gum tissue with a soft bristled toothbrush after eating but at least twice daily.
- Take your dentures out of your mouth each night. Allowing your gum tissue and underlying bone a break from being covered by your denture will help prevent tissue irritation, bone loss and infection.
- Keep your denture moist overnight. The materials your complete removable denture is made from need to remain moist to prevent from becoming brittle and retain the proper strength and fit, as we age our salvia production decreases, and our mouths do not produce enough moisture for this purpose.
- In addition to daily cleaning at home, an annual visit with our doctors and team is essential to keep both you and your denture in optimal function and health. During these visits, our team will:
- Review the effectiveness of your home care techniques and tools used.
- Assess your complete removable denture to ensure its integrity and fit.
- Assess the health and condition of your underlying gum tissue and bone.
- Professionally clean your prosthesis and underlying gum tissue.
These steps help keep your denture in optimal condition and maintain healthy tissue by preventing bacterial buildup that can potentially lead to gum disease, bone loss and the ability to support your complete removable denture as designed.