Dentures provide a practical and effective solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring oral function. Professionally designed dentures offer both functional and esthetic benefits to patients, whether they are missing several teeth or an entire arch. Also commonly referred to as “false teeth” in Singapore, these custom-made removable appliances can help restore chewing ability, facial structure, and smile appearance.
Dentures or false teeth are removable prostheses designed to replace missing teeth. They are typically supported by the remaining natural teeth and gums and can replace a few missing teeth or an entire set of teeth, depending on the patient’s dental condition.
Dentures play a vital role in improving a patient’s ability to chew and eat their food by increasing the number of tooth contacts. This can help to ensure adequate nutritional intake, especially for older adults. Tooth loss can affect pronunciation and replacement of teeth can restore speech clarity by providing necessary support for the lips and tongue. Without tooth support, facial structure may collapse, leading to a sunken appearance. By restoring missing teeth, dentures help maintain facial contours and contribute to esthetics and confidence.
There are different types of dentures available, each designed to meet different dental needs. The choice of dentures depends on factors such as the number of missing teeth and oral health condition.
Complete dentures are used when all natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw are missing. They rest directly on the gums and are custom-made to provide a stable and comfortable fit.
Complete dentures are commonly chosen by patients who have experienced significant tooth loss. With proper fitting and adjustment, they can provide reliable chewing function and improve overall appearance.
Partial dentures are indicated when some natural teeth are present. These remaining teeth assist in supporting the denture and keeping them in place. In addition to increasing the number of tooth contacts, partial dentures can also help prevent remaining teeth from shifting into empty spaces, preserving proper alignment and bite function.
Dentures can be made from various materials, each offering unique advantages in terms of durability, comfort, and aesthetics.
Acrylic is one of the most commonly used materials for dentures. It is lightweight, cost-effective, and can be easily adjusted if changes are required. Acrylic dentures are suitable for both complete and partial dentures and are widely used in Singapore due to their affordability and versatility.
Metal-based dentures use alloys such as cobalt-chromium for additional strength and durability. These dentures are typically thinner and thus more comfortable. They are also more resistant to breakage compared to acrylic-only dentures and are indicated when additional strength is required.
Flexible dentures are made from thermoplastic materials that may offer improved comfort. They are usually metal-free and are often preferred by patients wishing to avoid metal show in their mouth. Flexible dentures are also suitable for individuals with allergies to metals. However, these materials tend to degrade over time and are only suitable for selected cases.
The process of receiving dentures typically involves several stages to ensure a precise fit, optimal comfort, and natural appearance. Each step is carefully planned to customise the dentures according to the patient’s oral condition and functional needs.
The first appointment begins with a comprehensive dental consultation and examination. The dentist will assess the patient’s oral health, evaluate the condition of the gums and any remaining teeth, and discuss suitable denture treatment options. Necessary X-rays may also be taken to support treatment planning.
A denture impression is a mould of the structures in your mouth and it is used to fabricate a working model on which the dentures will be designed and made on. An impression can be made conventionally using a mouldable material carried in a tray or digitally with an intra-oral scanner. An accurate impression is essential to ensure that the dentures fit securely and comfortably while minimising irritation or movement during daily use.
A bite registration is performed to record the relationship of the upper and lower jaws when the mouth is closed. This step is important in ensuring proper bite alignment, chewing function, and overall comfort.
The dentist will also evaluate facial proportions, jaw movements, and spacing to determine the appropriate positioning of the artificial teeth.
Before the final dentures are fabricated, a trial denture is prepared to evaluate the appearance, tooth placement and bite of the dentures.
Patients are encouraged to provide feedback regarding aesthetics during this stage. Adjustments can then be made before the final dentures are fabricated, helping to ensure a more predictable and satisfactory outcome.
Following the completion of the denture fabrication process, the final dentures are issued to the patient. During this appointment, the dentist will assess the fit, appearance, and bite alignment of the dentures before delivering the prosthesis to the patients.
Regular denture reviews are important to ensure continued comfort and functionality. During follow-up appointments, the dentist will assess the condition and fit of the dentures, as well as examine the gums and oral tissues for any signs of irritation or pressure areas.
Over time, natural changes in the gums and jawbone may affect how the dentures fit. Adjustments, relining, or replacement may be recommended when necessary to maintain optimal comfort, stability, and oral health.
*The actual number of appointments may vary depending on the complexity of the case.
In the first few days of using your dentures, you may experience:
Phone: +65 6716 2233
Email: NUHS_Dental@nuhs.edu.sg
Location: Zone D, D01-01, NUCOHS Dental Clinic @ AH
Operating Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, Fridays: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
(Closed on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays)
