Dentures

Dentures are removable appliances used to replace missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissue. They’re custom-made to fit your mouth and can replace some teeth (partial dentures) or all of the teeth in an arch (full dentures). Modern dentures are designed to look natural and feel comfortable, and they can make a real difference to your confidence, your ability to eat, and even your speech. At our Wagga dental practice, we take the time to make sure your dentures are fitted precisely and that you feel genuinely comfortable with the process from start to finish.

Full (or complete) dentures replace all of the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw—or both. They rest on the gums and are held in place by natural suction or with the help of a dental adhesive. Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain; they clip onto the existing teeth for support and fill in the gaps. Both options are carefully customised to match your mouth, and we’ll recommend the most appropriate type based on your individual situation. If you’re unsure which type you need, your assessment appointment will give us the information we need to guide you clearly.

Getting dentures is a process that takes place over several appointments—typically spread across a few weeks. We begin with impressions and measurements, which are sent to a dental laboratory to create your custom appliance. There are usually one or two fitting appointments to check the fit, bite, and appearance before your final dentures are completed. We won’t rush this process, because getting the fit right is what makes dentures genuinely comfortable and functional. We’ll keep you informed throughout and make sure you feel heard at every stage.

It’s completely normal to need an adjustment period when you first get dentures—most people find eating and speaking feels a little different at first, and that’s okay. Your mouth needs time to adapt, and we’ll give you practical guidance on how to ease into using them. Starting with softer foods and cutting things into smaller pieces can help in the early weeks. Speech usually settles quickly as your tongue and lips adapt. If you’re struggling beyond the initial adjustment period, come and see us—dentures can be adjusted and refined, and we’ll work with you until they feel right.

Dentures need daily care, just like natural teeth. Remove them each evening and clean them gently with a soft brush and denture cleanser—avoid regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive. Soak them overnight in a denture solution or plain water or white vinegar to keep them clean. If you don’t like overnight soaking, it is also fine to simply leave them moist, and soak for thirty minutes twice a week. Rinse your mouth and clean your gums and any remaining teeth before reinserting them in the morning. Handle your dentures over a folded towel or basin of water, as they can crack if dropped. And keep up with your regular check-up appointments—we’ll monitor the fit and the health of your gums, both of which can change over time.

With proper care, dentures typically last last ten years, though this varies. Over time, the fit can change as the shape of your gums and jawbone naturally shifts—particularly in the months and years following tooth loss. A denture that no longer fits properly can cause sore spots, difficulty eating, and changes to your facial appearance. We recommend having your dentures and your oral health assessed regularly, even if they feel comfortable. Relining or replacing dentures at the right time is far more comfortable than waiting until problems develop.