Dentures
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and the tissues around them. They are custom-made to look natural and help you chew and speak more easily.
Key facts
- Dentures can be full (replacing all of your teeth) or partial (replacing a few missing teeth).
- They are made from materials like acrylic, nylon, or metal and are shaped to fit your gums.
- Getting used to dentures takes time, and they may need adjustments as your mouth changes.
Yes. Many adults lose some or all of their teeth due to tooth decay, gum disease, or injury, and dentures are one of the most common ways to replace them.
Dentures are most often used by older adults, but people of any age can need them after losing teeth. Children rarely need them, usually in cases of injury or a medical condition present at birth.
Symptoms
- Severe difficulty breathing after swallowing a piece of a denture – call your local emergency number now.
- Facial swelling so severe that it affects your breathing or vision – call emergency services immediately.
- Heavy, uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth that does not stop – get urgent emergency help.
- ⚠A broken denture with a sharp edge that is cutting your mouth – get same-day dental care.
- ⚠Signs of infection, such as severe pain, pus, swelling, or fever – see a dentist urgently.
- ⚠Pain that lasts more than a week after new dentures and prevents you from eating – arrange urgent review.
Common symptoms
- Missing teeth that feel uncomfortable or make it hard to chew.
- Shifting teeth causing gaps or spaces that affect your bite.
- Soreness or aching in your gums or jaw when eating.
- Difficulty speaking clearly because of missing teeth.
Symptoms in children
- Children rarely need dentures, but they may be used temporarily after losing teeth in an accident or because of a medical condition.
- A space maintainer or temporary partial denture can help a child keep space for adult teeth.
Symptoms in older adults
- Worn-down teeth that make dentures more likely to be considered.
- Loose teeth from advanced gum disease.
- Complete tooth loss after multiple extractions can lead to full dentures.
Causes
Main causes
- Tooth decay that destroys the structure of teeth over time.
- Gum disease (periodontitis) which can loosen teeth and lead to tooth loss.
- Injury or trauma to the face or teeth.
- Genetic conditions that prevent teeth from forming properly.
Risk factors
- Poor oral hygiene and skipping regular dental visits.
- Smoking or using other tobacco products, which can harm gums and bone.
- Uncontrolled diabetes, which raises the risk of gum disease.
- Dry mouth caused by some medicines or health conditions.
- Eating a diet high in sugar and acid.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- Call your dentist or see urgent care if your denture is broken and the sharp edge is cutting your mouth.
- Seek care the same day if you have signs of infection, like severe pain, swelling, or fever.
- See a dentist or doctor if you have trouble breathing after swallowing part of a denture.
Book a routine appointment if:
- Talk to your dentist if you are missing teeth and want to know if dentures might help.
- Have regular dental check-ups so existing dentures can be checked for fit and condition.
- Visit a dentist if your dentures slip, click, or cause sores that do not heal.
Diagnosis
A dentist or healthcare provider will examine your mouth, talk about your symptoms, and review your dental history. They will also ask about your health and medicines, as these can affect your gums and bone.
Tests that may be done
- Full dental exam to look at your teeth, gums, and jaw.
- X-rays to check the health of your jawbone and any remaining teeth.
- Impressions, also called moulds, of your upper and lower gums to create a custom fit.
What to expect at your appointment
Your dentist will take a series of measurements and fittings over several visits. You may try a temporary model, make adjustments, and finally receive your custom denture. The process usually happens over a few weeks.
Treatment
Treatment involves making and fitting dentures that suit your mouth and needs. It may include new dentures, adjusting existing dentures, relining the fit, or using dental implants to hold them securely.
Self-care at home
- Clean your dentures every day using a soft-bristle brush and a gentle cleanser meant for dentures.
- Soak your dentures in water or a denture solution overnight to keep them moist and maintain their shape.
- Rinse your dentures after eating and handle them carefully over a soft towel to avoid breaking them.
- Take good care of your gums by brushing them with a soft toothbrush and rinsing your mouth daily.
Medical treatments
Your dentist can make minor adjustments so the dentures fit comfortably. Over time, the bone changes shape, so you may need a reline to improve the fit. In some cases, dental implants can be placed surgically in the jaw to help hold the dentures in place. These options are not specific drugs or brands and should be discussed with your dental care team.
When is surgery considered?
If you choose dental implants, a minor procedure is needed to place small anchors into your jawbone. This is only recommended for people with enough healthy bone and good oral health.
Living with this condition
When you first get dentures, they may feel odd and can make you salivate more or find eating tricky. Start with soft foods, cut into small pieces, and chew slowly on both sides. Speaking aloud for a few minutes each day will help you adjust.
Lifestyle tips
- Keep up a regular routine of cleaning your mouth and dentures every day.
- Read aloud or practice speaking to build confidence.
- Drink plenty of water to help keep your mouth comfortable.
- See your dentist regularly to check the fit and overall oral health.
Diet and exercise
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Cut food into small pieces and chew evenly using both sides. As you adapt, you can gradually return to tougher foods, but avoid sticky or very hard foods that could dislodge or break your dentures.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Losing teeth can affect self-esteem and confidence. Know that having dentures is common, and many people feel more at ease after a short adjustment period. If you feel anxious or low, talk to your doctor or dentist, or seek support from a mental health professional.
Prevention
While not all tooth loss can be prevented, you can reduce the risk with good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking and tobacco.
Vaccines
There is no vaccine for tooth loss or dentures.
Screening programmes
Regular dental check-ups are a form of screening that can detect early gum disease and decay before they cause tooth loss.
Complications
If left untreated
- Ill-fitting dentures can cause painful sores, mouth infections, or inflammation.
- Untreated tooth loss can make chewing harder and affect your nutrition.
- Continued bone loss in the jaw can change the shape of your face over time.
Long-term outlook
With proper care and regular check-ups, dentures can give you a confident smile and help you eat and speak normally for many years. Adjustments are part of normal upkeep, and many people live comfortably with dentures.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- NHS (United Kingdom) ↗ · United Kingdom
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.