Clinical review: Dr. Samreen Ejaz, BDS, RDS ·
Full or partial?
A complete (full) denture replaces all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. A partial denture fills gaps between the teeth you still have and has to be designed around them. Your gums, bite and remaining teeth shape the design. The material matters, but it’s only part of the choice. A “flexible” denture, for example, won’t automatically fit every mouth better.
The materials we offer
For complete dentures we offer heat-cured acrylic and a second option called polyvinyl. For partial dentures there are flexible designs and metal-supported designs, including attachment systems and a CC plate option. For the polyvinyl and CC plate options, Dr. Samreen will confirm the exact material and design and write it on your plan. Whatever it’s made of, any denture can break if it’s dropped or overloaded.
From impressions to a trial fitting
We examine your mouth and how your jaws meet, then take impressions for the lab. Usually there’s a trial stage where you can check the look, the tooth positions and your bite before the denture is finished. If you already wear one, bring it and tell us what bothers you, whether that’s looseness, sore spots, speech or foods you struggle with.
Getting used to it
A new denture feels strange at first. Speaking and eating take practice, so start with softer foods and the tips we give you. If it rubs, come back for an adjustment rather than filing it at home. If it keeps moving, we need to find out why. Using more and more adhesive only hides the problem.
Cleaning your denture
Clean the denture and your mouth separately, including any natural teeth and the gums underneath. Use products that suit your denture’s material and follow our advice about taking it out at night. Hot water and some cleaners can damage certain dentures. Keep your check-ups, because your mouth changes over time even when the denture looks the same.
Repairs, relines and alternatives
Ask whether your denture can be adjusted, relined or have a tooth added later if your mouth changes. This differs between materials and designs, so it’s worth comparing before you choose. Every denture needs looking after and refitting from time to time. For some people, implants or a fixed bridge may be an option instead, after an assessment.
BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Questions about dentures (full and partial)
What is a CC plate?
It’s one of our partial denture options. Dr. Samreen will confirm the exact material and design for your case and write it on your treatment plan.
Can a flexible denture break?
Yes. Flexible doesn’t mean it can’t break, and flexibility alone doesn’t make it the right choice for your mouth.
My old denture is loose. Can I keep using it?
Let us check the fit and your gums first. It might need adjusting, relining, repairing or replacing, depending on why it’s loose.
This is general information. What’s right for your tooth depends on what Dr. Samreen finds when she examines it.
Background reading: NHS: dentures. These are overseas sources, so their prices and rules don’t apply here.