Tooth loss affects everyday functions such as chewing, speaking and smiling. Dentures (removable prostheses) replace several missing teeth or a full arch and can be taken out by the patient. Thanks to modern materials and planning, today's dentures look far more natural and feel more comfortable than in the past.
Types of Dentures
- Complete dentures: used when no teeth remain in a jaw. The upper denture is held by suction on the palate; the lower one relies on the tongue and cheek muscles and is usually less stable.
- Partial dentures: used when healthy teeth remain. Artificial teeth on a metal framework attach to the natural teeth with clasps or discreet precision attachments.
- Implant-supported overdentures: snap onto 2–4 implants. They are still removable for cleaning but offer much better retention and chewing power. Fixed All-on-4 / All-on-6 solutions are also available.
- Immediate dentures: fitted on the day of extraction so you are never without teeth; they need adjustment or replacement as the gums heal.
How Dentures Are Made
Examination and X-rays, impressions, bite registration and tooth selection, a wax try-in to check appearance and speech, and finally delivery followed by a few adjustment visits.
Getting Used to Dentures
Most people adapt within 4–6 weeks. Start with soft food cut into small pieces, chew on both sides, practise reading aloud and come back for adjustments rather than filing sore spots yourself.
Daily Care
- Rinse after every meal and brush daily with a denture brush and mild soap or denture cleaner, not regular toothpaste.
- Remove dentures at night and keep them in water or a cleaning solution.
- Never use hot or boiling water.
- Clean your gums, tongue and any remaining natural teeth.
When to Reline or Replace
The jawbone changes over time, so have your dentures checked at least once a year. A loose or sore denture may need relining or replacement; dentures typically last around 5–7 years.
Dentures in Fethiye
At Dt. Yüksel Taşdemir Dental Practice we help you choose between conventional, implant-supported and fixed options. Learn more about our denture service or contact us to book an examination.