Full Upper and Lower Dentures

What Are Full Upper and Lower Dentures?

Full upper and lower dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace all the teeth in both arches.

The upper denture generally includes an acrylic base that rests over the tissues of the upper arch and supports the artificial teeth. A lower denture is designed to fit over the lower arch and also supports artificial teeth.

The design and fit of each denture are influenced by the shape of your mouth, the available supporting tissues and the way your upper and lower arches meet.

Dentures are removable and can be taken out for cleaning and as advised by your dental team. Your dentist will explain how to insert, remove and care for your appliances.

Who May Need Full Upper and Lower Dentures?

Full upper and lower dentures may be considered when all the teeth in both arches have been lost or when the remaining teeth are no longer suitable for retention, depending on the individual circumstances.

Before recommending dentures, your dentist will assess your mouth and consider factors such as:

• The condition of your gums and oral tissues
• The amount and shape of the available supporting tissues
• Your bite and jaw relationship
• Any remaining teeth
• Your oral hygiene
• Your previous experience with dentures, if applicable
• Your preferences and expectations
• Other tooth replacement options that may be suitable

The assessment is important because denture treatment is not the same for everyone. Your dentist can explain the options available and discuss their potential benefits and limitations.

What Happens During a Denture Assessment?

Your treatment starts with an examination and discussion of your dental needs.

Your dentist will assess the tissues in your mouth and the areas where teeth are missing. They will also consider how your upper and lower arches relate to one another.

Impressions, measurements, photographs or other dental records may be taken as part of the denture planning process. These records provide information that can be used when designing your dentures.

Your dentist can also discuss the appearance and arrangement of the artificial teeth, where appropriate, as well as practical considerations such as wearing, cleaning and adapting to your new dentures.

How Are Full Upper and Lower Dentures Made?

Once your dentist has completed the assessment and a suitable treatment plan has been agreed, the required information is sent to the dental laboratory.

The dentures are made using the selected materials and artificial teeth. The process can involve several stages, depending on your individual treatment plan and the records required.

During the denture-making process, your dentist may assess how the developing dentures relate to your mouth and each other.

When the final dentures are ready, they will be fitted and assessed in your mouth. Your dentist will check the fit and how the upper and lower dentures work together. Adjustments may be needed if areas require attention.

You will also receive instructions on how to use and care for your new dentures.

What Is It Like to Wear Two New Dentures?

Wearing full upper and lower dentures can feel unfamiliar initially. Your mouth needs time to adjust to the appliances, and speaking and eating may feel different while you become accustomed to them.

You may need to practise speaking with your dentures. When eating, starting with softer foods and smaller pieces may make the adjustment period easier for some people. You can gradually become more familiar with eating different foods as you gain confidence with the appliances.

Everyone adapts differently. If you experience persistent soreness, irritation, discomfort or difficulty keeping the dentures in place, contact your dentist. The fit can be assessed and adjustments may be considered where appropriate.

How Should You Care for Full Upper and Lower Dentures?

Both dentures need regular cleaning. Your dental team will provide instructions based on the materials and design of your appliances.

General care may include:

• Cleaning the dentures regularly using the recommended method
• Cleaning your gums and tongue as part of your oral hygiene routine
• Handling the dentures carefully when removing or inserting them
• Storing the dentures as advised when they are not being worn
• Avoiding cleaning products that are not suitable for the denture material
• Attending regular dental reviews
• Contacting your dental team if either denture becomes damaged, uncomfortable or difficult to use

Even without natural teeth, regular dental reviews can be useful for monitoring the condition of your mouth and the fit of your dentures. Your dentist can also advise you on ongoing oral hygiene and denture care.

How Long Do Full Dentures Last?

There is no fixed period for which every set of dentures will remain suitable. Their longevity can vary depending on factors such as everyday use, denture care, oral hygiene and changes in the tissues supporting the appliances.

The shape of the mouth can change over time. As these changes occur, an existing denture may no longer fit in the same way. The opposing dentures may also change through normal wear.

During routine reviews, your dentist can assess the condition and fit of your dentures and advise whether an adjustment, repair, reline, replacement or another treatment option may be appropriate.

If your dentures become increasingly loose, uncomfortable or difficult to use, arrange an assessment rather than attempting to modify them yourself.

What If Full Dentures Do Not Feel Comfortable?

A period of adjustment is common when getting used to new dentures, but persistent discomfort should be discussed with your dental team.

Soreness, movement, difficulty eating or problems with speech may sometimes indicate that the denture needs assessment. Your dentist can examine the appliance and the tissues underneath it and determine whether an adjustment or other treatment is appropriate.

It is also important not to make alterations to the denture yourself, as this may affect its fit or function.