When multiple teeth are missing, removable partial dentures are often used to replace them, particularly when there are not enough teeth left to fabricate a fixed bridge.  When all the teeth are missing in an arch, full dentures are placed.

Full Denture

Home Care Instructions for Removable Partial & Full Dentures

It is common to need to have your new denture adjusted several times.  When you get a new pair of shoes, they can rub blisters on your feet.  Usually, shoes will stretch and the blisters will go away.  Your new denture will not stretch and must be adjusted.  

You may salivate more when you first get your denture.  This is normal and usually stops anywhere from within the first few minutes to a few days.  It is important that you practice talking.  Talk to yourself, read aloud and sing.  You should sound normal within a very short time.

You will also need to practice eating.  Do not plan to eat your first meal in public.  Cut your food into small bites, eat easy to chew foods and chew slowly.  

Some people feel more comfortable wearing adhesives under their dentures (particularly full dentures).  You can experiment with over the counter adhesives.  It is important to make sure you remove all of the adhesive each day when you clean your dentures.

The removable partial or full denture must be removed at least 8 hours each day, preferably at bedtime.  Letting the denture stay in the mouth 24 hours a day will cause you to develop sores and fungus under it.  It should also be removed and cleaned after meals.  When you take it out at bedtime, clean it with a brush and soak it in water, mouthwash or a denture cleaner. Do not let the denture dry out, as this can cause it to warp.  When rinsing and brushing your denture over the sink, it is best to place a wash cloth in the basin with some water to cushion the denture should you drop it.  The acrylic will break if dropped.

Learning to wear your new dentures (particularly full dentures) is much like learning a new sport.  It takes practice and patience.  Try not to become discouraged at first.

Even if you wear a full denture, it is still important to see your dentist regularly.  Your dentures should be checked routinely, along with both the fit and the bite.  A poorly fitting denture can cause problems with the underlying tissues and bone loss.  You will also be checked for oral cancer and other diseases that can show up in the mouth.