Dentures are restorations that are used to replace a full set or a small number of missing teeth. Dentures are effectively false teeth, which are used to replace teeth that have become severely damaged or fallen out. It is always advisable to replace gaps in the smile because missing teeth can increase the risk of oral health diseases. Many people with missing teeth have low confidence and there are also issues associated with eating and speaking.

There are many different types of dentures and your dentist will discuss options with you so that you get the best dentures according to your prescription and your preferences.

How are dentures held in place?

In most cases, dentures are custom-made to fit the mouth perfectly and no adhesive is required to hold the dentures in place. However, some people prefer to use fixative to ensure that their dentures are held firmly in place. Many people who wear dentures worry about them coming loose in public and using fixative helps to put their mind at ease and make them feel more comfortable.

Alternatives to denture fixative

Some people choose not to use fixative, as the natural suction provided by the gums is usually enough to hold the dentures in place. In recent years, implant-retained dentures have become increasingly popular. These are dentures that are held in place by dental implants, which are small titanium rods that are fixed into sockets in the jawbone. Implant-retained dentures are advantageous because they provide excellent anchorage, which not only improves functionality, but also gives people complete peace of mind that their dentures will never come loose. Implant-retained dentures also tend to last longer than traditional dentures and they allow people to eat with greater comfort and confidence.