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Dentures
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Mouth Teeth

Dentures

Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth, requiring proper care and periodic adjustments to ensure comfort and functionality.

Overview

Dentures are false teeth made to replace teeth you have lost. They can be complete or partial. Complete dentures cover your entire upper or lower jaw, while partials replace one or a few teeth.

Adjustment and Care

Dentures may feel strange at first, and you may notice changes in how you speak and eat. Be careful when wearing them, as they may make it harder to feel the temperature of hot foods and liquids, or to notice if you are biting on a bone.

In the beginning, your dentist may want to see you often to ensure the dentures fit correctly. Over time, your mouth will change, and you may need to have your dentures adjusted or replaced. Always let your dentist handle these adjustments.

Maintenance and Alternatives

If your dentures move too much, denture adhesive may help. In some cases, your dentist may suggest switching to dental implants, which are permanent and replace both the roots and teeth.

To keep your dentures clean and free from food that can cause stains, bad breath, or swollen gums:

  • Brush them every day with a denture care product.
  • Take your dentures out at night.
  • Store them in water or a denture-cleansing liquid when not in use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Initially, you may experience changes in speech, difficulty eating, and a feeling of fullness in your mouth. Your gums might also be sore. To ease adjustment, start with soft foods cut into small pieces, practice speaking aloud, and be patient. Your dentist will schedule follow-up appointments to make necessary adjustments for comfort and fit.
To keep your dentures clean, brush them daily with a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner (not regular toothpaste, which can be too harsh). Remove your dentures at night to give your gums a rest, and store them in water or a denture-cleansing solution to keep them moist and prevent warping. Remember to also clean your gums, tongue, and palate every day.
Dentures typically need adjustments as your mouth changes over time, and may need to be replaced every 5 to 10 years. Signs that your dentures need attention include a loose fit, discomfort, difficulty chewing, changes in your facial appearance, or if the teeth appear worn down. Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor their fit and condition.
If dentures prove uncomfortable or challenging, dental implants are a popular and permanent alternative. Implants involve surgically placing titanium posts into your jawbone, which then fuse with the bone to act as artificial tooth roots. Crowns, bridges, or even implant-supported dentures can then be attached to these implants, offering a stable and natural-feeling solution.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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