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Leeds Dental Institute

Removable partial dentures

Information for patients

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Why do I need a denture?

Teeth can be lost due to a variety of reasons including decay, gum disease or trauma.

Teeth may need to be replaced to:

  • To improve your appearance
  • Contribute to your quality of speech
  • Improve your chewing ability
  • Ensure that your remaining teeth do not drift out of line or tilt into spaces
Illustration showing a metal framed denture.

It is still very important to care for and retain your remaining teeth, especially when wearing a partial denture. Your dentist will advise you on the best possible way to do this.

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What is a partial denture?

Dentures are removable false teeth made of a plastic (acrylic) or metal plate. Both types may have metal clips (clasps), to help keep the denture in place within the mouth. Depending on where they are, some of these clips may show when you smile or open your mouth. Partial dentures are designed to fit snugly over the gum to replace one or more missing teeth and usually have a pink plastic flange to replace any missing gum and bone that may occur after tooth removal.

What is the difference between a plastic and a metal partial denture?

Metal-based dentures are made from an alloy of cobalt and chromium and are covered with gum-coloured plastic and have plastic teeth fixed to them. They are thinner and stronger than acrylic dentures which are made purely from plastic. Metal- based dentures are not suitable in all cases. Your dentist will guide you on the best partial denture for your situation.

Important advice:

How do I look after my denture and do I need to take it out?

  • Dentures need to be cleaned daily just like your natural teeth to remove food debris and plaque. Ideally you should remove your denture to brush it twice a day or after each meal. Your remaining natural teeth also need cleaning twice daily. Aim to thoroughly brush all the surfaces of your denture with a soft-bristled brush and toothpaste / soap over a sink with some water in it, in case you drop them.
  • Generally, we advise you to remove your denture at night and store in a container with some cold water in it. This gives your mouth a chance to rest. Do not leave your dentures to dry out; as this may harm them.
  • A denture cleanser solution may also be used to help remove stubborn stains and leave your denture feeling fresher. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which is normally two or three nights per week.
  • Avoid using very hot water or strong bleach, which can cause the metal parts of your denture to tarnish and the plastic to whiten. Your dental team can advise you on the best cleaning regime for your particular denture.
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How long will it take to get used to wearing a denture?

The best results from your new denture will only be achieved with practice and patience. Eat mainly soft, non-sticky foods to start with and try to cut food into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth. Avoid chewing gum and any food that is very sticky, hard or sharp-edged while you get used to them.

It takes patients varying lengths of time to adapt and become really accustomed to wearing new dentures. It’s not unusual to find that the denture feels large at first and difficult to control when speaking or eating. You may also notice increased saliva flow in your mouth, which should disappear within few days.

Soreness of your mouth

New dentures often cause areas of soreness. If you have mild soreness; please continue to wear your denture. If it is severe and you cannot tolerate it, leave the denture out, but try to wear it for 2 – 3 days before your review appointment. This helps the dentist to tell where the pressure spots are; do not attempt to adjust or repair your denture yourself. The review appointment normally will be booked 1 – 2 weeks from the fitting day. Problems or discomfort can often be rectified at this appointment or subsequent appointments.

What is an immediate partial denture?

An immediate partial denture is inserted immediately following the removal (extraction) of your natural teeth. Immediate dentures may gradually become loose as your gums and bone change shape as they heal following the extraction(s). They will often need relining or re-making at some stage in the future.

Are there any alternative methods for replacing missing teeth?

There are two other main ways of replacing missing teeth:

A fixed bridge is a false tooth or teeth, which are held in place by the natural teeth that are on one or both sides of the gap. A bridge is cemented onto the neighbouring teeth so it cannot be removed. There are different types of bridge and they are not always possible or suitable for all patients. Your dentist will be able to advise you if the gap you have is restorable using a bridge.

Dental implants may also be used to replace one or more missing teeth. Implants are surgically placed into your jaw and used to support an individual artificial crown, fixed bridge or removable denture. Dental implants may be difficult or impossible to place in some patients and your dentist can advise you on your suitability

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  • LN: 002839
  • Edition number: 4 version 1
  • Developed by: Leean Morrow (Consultant in Restorative Dentistry) • Department of Restorative Dentistry • Leeds Dental Institute
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