Partial Dentures / Removable Dentures


New Patients are always welcome

What Are Partial Dentures?


Removable partial dentures consist of artificial teeth to replace your missing teeth, and are made on a metal framework attached to pink or gum-colored plastic base. A temporary partial denture can be made for an immediate insertion directly after extractions. These are usually made with only an acrylic base often times with clasps. However this is only a temporary solution for aesthetic purposes until a final partial denture, in the metal framework, is completed.

A partial denture may have a metal framework and clasps that attach to your natural teeth, or they can have other connectors that are more natural looking. In some cases, a removable partial denture is made to attach to your natural teeth with devices called precision attachments or root locators. Root locators are attachments placed into the remaining root of the tooth and are generally more esthetic than clasps.

These precision attachments generally cost more than those with clasps. Consult with your denturist to find out which type is right for you.

What to Expect

  • In the beginning, your new partial denture may feel awkward or foreign. This is normal, and you will eventually become accustomed and more comfortable wearing it.
  • Inserting and removing the partial denture will require some practice.
  • Follow all the instructions provided to you. Your denture should fit into place with relative ease. Never force the partial denture into position by biting down. This could bend or break the clasps.
  • You will be given specific instruction about how long the denture should be worn and when it should be removed.
  • Initially, you may be asked to wear your partial denture all the time. Although this may be uncomfortable at first, it's the quickest way to identify areas that may need adjustment.
  • If the denture puts too much pressure on a particular area, that spot will become sore. The partial denture can be easily adjusted to fit more comfortably. After making adjustments we recommend that you take the partial denture out of your mouth before going to bed and replace it in the morning.
  • Eating should become a more pleasant experience with dentures. Start out by eating soft foods that are cut into small pieces. Chew on both sides of the mouth to keep even pressure on both sides. Avoid foods that are extremely sticky or hard. You may want to avoid chewing gum during the adjustment period.
  • Partial denture can also help improve your speech. If you find it difficult to pronounce certain words, practice reading out loud. Repeat the words that give you trouble. With time, you will become accustomed to speaking properly with your partial denture.

Caring for Your Dentures

  • We can recommend a denture cleaner.
  • When cleaning a partial denture, it's a good idea to place a folded in the sink or to fill the sink with water just in case you accidentally drop the denture.
  • Do not use toothpaste since it can be too harsh for cleaning dentures.
  • Some people use hand soap or mild dishwashing liquid to clean their dentures, which are both acceptable. However, most household cleaners are too abrasive and should not be used for cleaning dentures.
  • Brush the denture each day and preferably after each meal to remove food and plaque. This helps the denture from becoming permanently stained.
  • It's best to use a brush that is designed for cleaning dentures. A denture brush has specific angles made to properly clean your dentures. A regular, soft-bristled toothbrush is also acceptable.
  • Avoid using a brush with hard bristles, which can damage the denture.
  • Clean your dentures by thoroughly rinsing off loose food particles. Moisten the brush and apply the denture cleaner. Brush all denture surfaces gently to avoid damaging the plastic or bending the attachments.
  • A denture could lose its proper shape if it is not kept moist. At night, the denture should be placed in soaking solution or water.
  • Don't chew, swallow, or gargle with denture cleansers.
  • Always thoroughly rinse the denture before placing it in your mouth.

Adjustments

Initially, adjusting to the denture may be necessary. As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the fit of the denture. Your bone and gum ridges can recede or shrink, resulting in a poorly fitting denture.

Dentures that do not fit properly should be adjusted. Poorly fitting dentures can cause various problems, including sores or infections. If so, come in and see us if your denture becomes loose, and maintain your regular visits, too.

If dentures become loose overtime, it may be time for a reline.

Remember: You can do serious harm to your denture and to your health by trying to adjust or repair your denture on your own. Using a do-it-yourself kit can damage the appliance beyond repair. Glues sold over-the-counter often contain harmful chemicals and should not be used on a denture. Using superglue on cracked or broken dentures may cause the denture to be un-repairable.

If your denture breaks, cracks or chips, or if one of the teeth becomes loose call us immediately. In many cases, we can make the necessary adjustments or repairs, often on the same day. Complicated repairs may require more than one day.


About Us

At Enjoy Life Denture Centre your oral health is our number one priority.

  • If you have an emergency, Mike will see you with or without an appointment
  • If you are housebound, in hospital or in a nursing home, Mike will make house calls
  • No referral necessary

Hamilton

Enjoy Life Denture Centre
288 King St W.
Hamilton, ON
L8P 1B1
Hamilton: 289-389-4786

Oakville

Enjoy Life Denture Centre
2330 Lakeshore Rd W #3
Oakville, ON
L6L 1H3
Oakville: 905-337-1555

Burlington

Enjoy Life Denture Centre
3155 Harvester Rd Unit 301
Burlington, ON
L7N 3V2
Burlington: 416-347-2377