Dentist Can Sağlat · Bitez, Bodrum
Dentures
A denture is an artificial appliance that replaces missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. It aims to restore chewing, speech and support for the face. On this page we explain how we make removable dentures and implant-retained dentures at our practice in Bitez, Bodrum. Fixed restorations (crowns and bridges) have a page of their own.
Types of denture
- Complete (full) denture: a removable denture that rests on the gums and carries all the teeth, used when no teeth are left in the jaw.
- Partial denture: a removable denture that replaces missing teeth while some natural teeth remain, taking support from them.
- Implant-retained denture: a denture attached to implants placed in the jaw. It can be designed to clip on and off the implants or to be fixed. The implants help the denture stay in place better.
Which type is suitable depends on the condition of the remaining teeth, the amount of bone, your general health and your expectations.
How does the process work?
- Examination and X-rays: the remaining teeth, gums and bone are assessed. If needed, extractions, fillings or gum treatment are carried out first.
- Planning and explanation: we talk about the options, stages, the period of getting used to the denture and your expectations.
- Impressions: for removable dentures we prefer the conventional impression method, to record the gums and surrounding tissues in detail. The relationship between the jaws and the bite are then recorded.
- Try-in: the arrangement, length and colour of the teeth, speech and the bite are checked at the try-in. We ask for your views at this stage; if needed, the try-in is repeated.
- Fitting: the denture is fitted, and we explain how to wear and clean it.
- Adjustment check-ups: in the first weeks, any points where the denture presses are adjusted.
The denture is made together with a dental laboratory. We give each stage enough time; comfort with a denture depends largely on the try-in and adjustment stages being done with care.
Getting used to it
In the first days with a new denture there may be a feeling of something foreign in the mouth, more saliva, a slight change in speech and sore spots (pressure sores) in some places. These usually ease in the first weeks. If a sore spot appears, do not file the denture yourself; we adjust it at your check-up.
Starting with soft food in small bites and reading aloud make getting used to it easier.
Care
- Take the denture out and rinse it with water after every meal, and clean it with a denture brush at least once a day.
- Toothpaste can scratch some denture surfaces; we explain which cleaner to use when the denture is fitted.
- Taking the denture out at night to rest your gums is usually recommended. We decide this together based on your situation.
- Any remaining teeth and the gums should also be brushed regularly.
- As the jawbone changes over time, the fit of the denture can loosen; if needed, it is relined at regular check-ups.
Frequently asked questions
Why does a new removable denture cause sore spots?
The denture presses on the tissues for the first time, and in some places this pressure can be too much. We adjust these areas at check-up appointments. If a sore does not heal, we ask you to let us know without waiting.
When will I be able to eat comfortably with a denture?
This varies from person to person. Most patients get used to it within a few weeks; getting used to a lower denture can take longer than an upper one. For those who have trouble keeping the denture in place, we can discuss an implant-retained denture.
How long can a denture be used?
The jawbone, the gums and the denture itself change over time. That is why the fit is assessed at regular check-ups; when needed, the denture is relined or a new one is planned.
Should I take my denture out at night?
In most cases, taking it out at night helps the gums rest and supports oral health. We explain what suits you depending on the type of denture and the condition of your mouth.