In Dentaltech’s 2020 reflection, Clinical Dental Technician Mario Viveros described patients who had put off seeking help with their dentures. Its message still matters: you can talk about discomfort, worries and what you would like to change.
You do not have to wait for a break
Old dentures can become worn or fit differently as the mouth changes. If they slip, click, cause pain or make eating difficult, arrange a review rather than waiting until they break.
An assessment helps establish whether adjustment, repair or replacement is appropriate. Age alone does not determine the answer.
Make the first conversation count
The original article emphasised listening to the patient’s experience. Before a consultation, write down your concerns: comfort, speech, appearance, foods you struggle with or worries about appointments.
Tell the team what would make the visit easier. Ask questions about the proposed plan, alternatives and costs before deciding.
Understand how dentures are planned
Making dentures involves assessing the mouth and taking measurements, with impressions or a scan depending on the approach. The number of visits and time needed vary.
A trial stage may allow you to discuss the appearance and feel before completion. Ask how this applies to your treatment and when your feedback will be needed.
Allow time to settle in
New dentures can take several weeks to become familiar. Start with softer food and practise taking them in and out as your clinician advises. Dentures can help eating and speaking, but results and adaptation differ.
Persistent soreness or slipping deserves review. Do not assume you must tolerate pain or adjust the denture yourself.
Keep caring for your mouth
Clean dentures morning and evening with a suitable gentle method; ordinary toothpaste can damage them. Handle them over water or a towel to reduce breakage if dropped.
Remove them at night unless your dentist advises otherwise. Keep regular dental reviews, including when you have no natural teeth, and ask for care instructions for your particular denture.
Frequently asked questions
Practical questions about taking the next step with dentures.
What should I discuss at a consultation?
Describe concerns about fit, comfort, eating, speech and appearance. Ask about the options, treatment stages and costs.
Should I wait until my dentures break?
No. Pain, slipping, clicking or a change in fit are reasons to arrange an assessment.
Will I definitely need new dentures?
The clinician will assess the problem. Adjustment, repair or replacement may be appropriate depending on the findings.
How many appointments will I need?
The number depends on the denture and treatment plan. Ask the team to explain the stages and likely timing.
Will new dentures feel natural straight away?
There is often an adjustment period of several weeks. Follow the team’s advice and report ongoing discomfort.
Should I sleep in my dentures?
Normally remove them at night unless your dentist has given you specific instructions otherwise.
Further reading: Dentures (NHS). Inspired by Dentaltech’s original 2020 article by Mario Viveros; clinical advice has been updated.
Talk about the smile you want
Arrange a consultation to discuss your denture concerns, available options and the next steps for your care.