Is there anything more frustrating than denture breakage? Not only does a compromised appliance impair speech and your ability to chew, but it also calls for emergency denture repairs, which can cost a pretty penny.

If you’re aware of the most common causes of denture breakage, you’re in a stronger position to avoid accidents. Here are the four scenarios where you’re more likely to damage your dentures, and our best care tips to prevent this from happening.

1. Ill-Fitting Dentures

Over time, your mouth and jaw structures change. While natural teeth and gums can go with this flow, dentures aren’t so adaptable — in fact, they’re moulded to your mouth circa whenever you last had them fitted.

If you’re experiencing painful pressure points every time you wear your appliance, that’s your sign to schedule a denture reline. In fact, it’s best practice to have your dentures relined (in other words, adjusted or refitted) every two to three years.

So, why do dentures break when they don’t fit right? The same reason a square peg strains to enter a round hole — there’s an incompatibility there that leads to constant tension and forced contact. When dentures, which are inherently delicate, are pushed into mismatched contours every day, they’ll eventually break under the undue pressure.

2. Accidental Drops or Falls

Falls are the most common mechanical cause of denture breakage. They almost always happen while you’re cleaning your dentures or leaving them unattended in storage. Unfortunately, dentures are vulnerable to falls when left on counters or shelves, especially if they’re loose without a storage case. They may get knocked over or fall from the edge of a sink or shelf.

Wondering how to clean and maintain dentures without breaking them? When working with delicate equipment, your best bet is to cushion the blow. Wash your dentures over a towel to provide a soft landing, should they slip from your hands. Alternatively, wash your dentures in or over a sink of water so they won’t collide with the hard surface below.

3. Teeth Grinding or Jaw Clenching

Persistent teeth grinding or jaw clenching has a name: bruxism. An involuntary condition, bruxism usually occurs overnight — but it can also happen while you’re awake.

If you wear dentures, repeatedly grinding your artificial teeth together is going to take a toll on the appliance, which can lead to eventual breakage. The good news is that, unless you wear your dentures to bed, your teeth are safe from the nightly grind — and your appliance is sustaining less damage than natural teeth or irremovable prosthetics (such as implant overdentures). The bad news? Bruxism can still damage the soft tissues and jaw joint at night, so you should ask your dentist about custom night guards — but that’s a health issue rather than a matter of how to avoid broken dentures.

The key to preventing bruxism is to identify the root cause. Are your dentures fitting correctly, or have you had a reline within the past two to three years? If not, you may be clenching subconsciously to hold the loose denture in place. Have you been experiencing a fair amount of stress or anxiety? This is the most common cause of bruxism; it can be helped with even a few minor strategies — e.g. progressive muscle relaxation (the act of tensing and releasing each muscle group), meditation and deep breathing exercises, and reducing screen time in the evening.

4. Poor Choice of Cleaning Products

Cleaning your dentures is important, but choosing the right cleaning products is even more critical. Due to their delicate composition, dentures require gentle cleaning products that won’t weaken or scratch their material, as this can ultimately lead to breakage. Acrylic resin, the most common denture material, is especially vulnerable.

For your convenience, we’ve compiled a traffic-light list of cleaners, starting with what not to clean dentures with, and ending with perfectly acceptable choices:

Red Light: Don’t Use These Abrasive Cleaners

As a general rule of thumb, if the cleaner in question contains harsh chemicals, it’s a no-go. Consider the following blacklisted:

• Bleach (sodium hypochlorite)
• Ammonia
• Toilet, bathroom, or multi-purpose cleaners
• Toothpaste formulated for natural teeth
• Baking soda

It’s important to remember that dentures will eventually go back in your mouth, and that bleach, ammonia, or household cleaners — even in residue form — are toxic to ingest.

While toothpaste and baking soda aren’t as dangerous if ingested, they still contain ingredients that are too abrasive on the denture material.

Amber Light: Exercise Caution with These Cleaners

These cleaners aren’t completely blacklisted, but they should only be used sometimes, under specific conditions. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to play it safe, consider the following cleaning products banned in all contexts:

• White vinegar, diluted to a one-to-one ratio: Can be used to remove tartar or odour from full dentures. Soak for no longer than 15–30 minutes, lest you degrade the material, and rinse the appliance thoroughly with cool water once you’re finished — lingering vinegar residue may irritate the gums. Never use vinegar as a daily cleaner. Furthermore, never use it to clean partial dentures, as it will corrode the metal clasps.
• Three per cent hydrogen peroxide, diluted at a one-to-one ratio: If your full dentures have bacteria, mild stains, or strong odours, they may need something a little stronger. As is the case with diluted white vinegar, never soak dentures in hydrogen peroxide for longer than 15–30 minutes, and always rinse them with cool water once you’re finished. Never use this as a daily cleaner (or on partial dentures, under any circumstances).

Green Light: Cleaners That Are Safe for Daily Use

Finally, we’ve hit the green zone! Here is a list of denture cleaning solutions safe for everyday use:

• Denture cleanser tablets: These are great for daily soaking and removing bacteria, food residue, and odour. Popular brands in Australia include Polident, Corega, and Steradent.
• Mild dish soap: Before you pop your dentures in a glass, give them a gentle clean using a soft-bristled brush. Mild dish soap is fine to use, so long as it’s free of fragrances, bleach, and abrasives.
• Denture toothpaste: Alternatively, use a toothpaste formulated especially for dentures. Steradent’s got you covered with 115g tubes — available at pharmacies and supermarkets.

What to Do If Dentures Break

Now you know why dentures break and how to avoid broken dentures, you’re in a much better position to incorporate our denture care tips into your daily life. But you also may be wondering, ‘What if I’m overdue for a reline — or what if I break my dentures, despite my best efforts?’.

Whether you require a reline, denture repairs, or to start afresh with a new appliance, we can help you out. We create dentures Perth patients know and trust. Book an appointment at Direct Denture Care and we’ll take it from there.

How many teeth do you need to be eligible for partial dentures? There is no magic number. So long as you have at least one tooth missing, partial dentures could be the ideal solution for restoring your front teeth, back teeth, or both. As their name suggests, partial dentures have an incomplete design because they’re made specifically for patients who are missing some — but not all — teeth. Because no candidates for partial dentures have the same mouth shape or amount of teeth missing, each appliance is custom-made. 

At Direct Denture Care, we offer custom partial dentures, along with repairs and adjustments to keep your smile healthy and confident.

What Are Partial Dentures?

Partial dentures are appliances you pop in your mouth, designed to replace one or more missing teeth. Wherever you’ve lost a tooth — along the top or bottom arch — partial dentures are a suitable fix. Like full dentures, partial dentures not only restore smile aesthetics but also help you reclaim the powers of chewing and speaking.

Partial dentures for the back teeth let you enjoy solid foods again, while partial dentures for the front teeth help you smile confidently like you did before. For those wondering, ‘Are partials worth the money?’: partial dentures are a cost-effective alternative to implants or fixed bridges, which still provide solid functionality and cosmetic benefits.

How Many Teeth Do You Need to Get Partial Dentures?

As discussed earlier, no specific number of teeth is required to qualify for partial dentures. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, partial dentures are a comfortable, secure solution we can arrange for you. (If you are missing all your teeth, though, you should look into full denture options.)

Here’s what matters more than the number of teeth:

• Position and health of remaining teeth (for stability).
• The area of the missing teeth — whether it’s the front or back.
• Your overall gum and bone health.

For people with few remaining teeth, flexible partial dentures are often a fantastic choice. They can adapt to the shape of your gums, providing a comfortable and discreet fit.

If you’re unsure how to choose partial dentures for your specific needs, book an appointment for personalised advice from our experienced team.

Different Types of Partial Dentures

Depending on your dental condition and preferences, there are several types of partial dentures that may suit you:

1. Acrylic Partial Dentures:

• Affordable option, often used temporarily.
• Can be modified if more teeth are lost later.

2. Cobalt Chrome Partial Dentures:

• Metal framework for strength and durability.
• Thinner and more comfortable for long-term wear.

3. Flexible Partial Dentures:

• Made from soft, flexible material for comfort.
• Excellent for front teeth or back teeth, especially when discretion is important.
• Less visible clasps and better adaptation to the gums.

Not sure which is right for you? We can help you get partial dentures in Perth that are tailored to your needs.

What If My Dentures Need Repairs or Adjustments?

Over time, your mouth’s shape can change due to bone and gum shifts, which may affect your dentures’ fit. The good news is that repairs and adjustments are often simple and affordable.

Our services include:

• Emergency denture repairs: Fast fixes for cracked or broken dentures.
• Denture relines: Adjusting your denture to fit better as your gums change.

By maintaining and repairing dentures as needed, you extend their life and keep them feeling comfortable in your mouth. So, when people ask, ‘Are partials worth the money?’, the answer is yes — especially when you consider how cost-effective they are and how they let you do things that those with a full set of teeth take for granted.

However many teeth you’re missing, partial dentures offer a flexible and affordable way to restore not only function but also aesthetics. The total tally of your remaining teeth is less important than ensuring the denture is well-designed for your mouth — and that’s where Direct Denture Care shines.

Partial dentures are a practical and popular solution for those who have lost one or more teeth but still have some natural teeth remaining. They not only restore the functionality of your mouth, allowing you to chew and speak properly, but they also bring back your confident smile. Understanding how partial dentures fit over your gums can help you appreciate the intricacies involved in their design and the care needed to keep them comfortable and effective.

Partial Denture Design

Partial dentures are custom-made dental appliances crafted to fit snugly in your mouth. They are designed to replace missing teeth while relying on the remaining natural teeth and the gums for support. Typically, partial dentures consist of a gum-coloured base, artificial teeth, and metal or acrylic clasps that anchor the denture to your natural teeth. The materials used are chosen for their durability, comfort, and natural appearance.

Fitting Over Your Gums

The fitting process for partial dentures is both an art and a science. Here’s how it works:

1. Initial Consultation & Impressions

The journey begins with an initial consultation at the denture clinic — perhaps one you found by searching ‘denture clinic near me’ in Google. Your denturist will take detailed measurements and make impressions of your mouth. These impressions will be crucial as they will serve as the blueprint for creating your custom partial dentures.

2. Creating the Denture Base

The denture base is typically made from flexible, gum-coloured acrylic designed to mimic the appearance of natural gums. This base sits comfortably over your gums, distributing the pressure evenly across the tissues. The acrylic base is often reinforced with a lightweight metal framework for added strength and stability.

3. Placing Artificial Teeth

Artificial teeth, made from high-quality resin or porcelain, are carefully selected to match the shape, size, and colour of your natural teeth. These teeth are securely attached to the denture base, ensuring they blend seamlessly with your existing teeth.

4. Incorporating Clasps & Attachments

Metal or acrylic clasps are incorporated to keep the partial denture in place. These clasps hook around your natural teeth, providing stability and preventing the denture from shifting during daily activities like eating or speaking. The design of these clasps is meticulously crafted to ensure they are as discreet as possible while maintaining a firm hold.

5. Adjustments & Fitting

Once your partial denture is fabricated, you’ll return to the denturist for a fitting. During this appointment, the denturist will place the denture in your mouth and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. This step is crucial, as a well-fitted denture prevents discomfort and potential damage to your gums and remaining teeth.

Maintaining Your Partial Dentures

Maintaining your partial dentures properly is essential to prolonging their lifespan and keeping them functioning well. Here are some key tips:

1. Daily Cleaning

Clean your dentures daily using a soft-bristled brush and a denture-specific cleanser. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive. Rinse your dentures thoroughly to remove any food particles and plaque.

2. Soaking Overnight

Soak your dentures in a denture solution or plain water overnight. This keeps them moist, preventing them from drying out and losing their shape. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when placing your dentures in soaking solutions.

3. Regular Check-Ups

Visit the denture clinic once a year for a check-up and professional cleaning. At your annual visit, your denturist will check if your appliance is in good condition and make adjustments or schedule repairs if it isn’t.

4. Handle With Care

Handle your dentures carefully and avoid dropping them. Store them in a safe place away from children and pets when not in use.

Visit Direct Denture Care for Your Partial Denture Needs

Partial dentures are an effective and aesthetically pleasing solution for replacing missing teeth. Understanding how they fit over your gums and how to take care of them can help you maintain their comfort and functionality. At Direct Denture Care, we specialise in creating custom partial dentures that fit perfectly and restore your smile. If you’re considering partial dentures or require maintenance for your existing ones, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you achieve a confident and healthy smile with our expert denture care services.

If you’re making your denture debut, chances are you’re still acclimatising to your new set of teeth. It doesn’t matter if you’re breaking in a baseball glove or adjusting to an anatomical change — the transitionary period of anything always takes time. While you’re growing used to your dentures, you can’t just dive back into your pre-denture dietary habits. You need to go gentle on your dental appliance and work your way back to where you were.

When you’ve only had your dentures for a few weeks, you should treat them like ‘baby teeth’, never biting off more than you can chew. Here’s how to navigate the early stages of denture wearing — and eventually reintroduce the foods you love.

Adopt a Soft-Food Diet

During the first few weeks of denture wearing, you should adopt a soft-food diet. This ensures you won’t overload yourself while you grow used to the new way you chew.

On a soft-food diet, you can enjoy most of the classics at breakfast: porridge, pancakes, smoothies, and even scrambled eggs. Just ensure you avoid crunchy cereals — and serve your eggs without toast.

At dinnertime, soup, pasta, rice and mashed potatoes will be your best friends. You can enjoy any type of vegetable, really, so long as it’s mashable — perhaps a pumpkin and sweet potato mash is more your speed.

For dessert, feel free to tuck into yoghurt, pudding or cooked fruit such as applesauce. For a general snack, soft fruits like bananas can go down a treat.

This list is not necessarily exhaustive. As a general rule of thumb, stick to soft-textured or liquid foods that neither strain your jaw muscles nor compromise your gums.

Caution: Contents Hot

Fact: boiling water can damage dentures’ delicate structure. Ergo, be wary of food or drink that is too hot to handle. Not only can it compromise your dentures, but it can also burn your mouth — which you may not notice while wearing dentures, as they can have an insulating effect. To test if something is safe to consume, hold it to your lips first. This should help you gauge the temperature.

If you have hot liquid in your mouth, don’t let it linger like you’re sampling wine. Swallow it toot sweet to avoid denture damage or loosening.

Chew With Mindfulness

When you chew, do so with care. Take smaller, slower bites to ensure you can swallow easily. This is not the time to attack a snack; instead, engage in mindful eating. This is a somewhat unrelated point, but mindful eating enables better digestion — so everyone should try this, whether their teeth are artificial or natural.

Can you eat potato chips with dentures? During the early weeks, you should stick to your soft-food diet. While you can reintroduce them after this phase, it’s generally not recommended due to the shards that stick around in your dentures’ crevices. If you ever eat potato chips with dentures, keep them clean and remove all the remnants.

Transitioning Back to Solids

Once you’ve felt your way around your new dentures, you should feel empowered to chew confidently. This means you can begin the (albeit slow) transition back to solid foods! Here are some hints that should smooth that transition.

1. Your Tastes May Feel Dulled

If you experience a dulled taste palette, know this is normal. Your taste buds will resume regular programming with time.

2. Cut Your Food Into Pieces

When approaching any task, it pays to break things down into bite-sized pieces — in this case, that advice is literal. As you transition back to solid foods, don’t bite off more than you can chew. Play it like a parent preparing their child’s dinner — cut your food into digestible chunks!

3. Bite Evenly on Both Sides

When chewing, ensure you chew evenly on both sides of the mouth. This will keep your dentures more stable and prevent uneven wear.

4. Accompany Each Meal With a Drink

If anything gets stuck in your dentures — cereal or bread are particularly prone to this — a few swigs are sometimes all it takes to dislodge them.

5. Stick to Meat You Can Eat

As you’re reintroducing solids, steak and anything tough or gristly will be off the menu. If you eat meat, stick to something soft. We’re talking fish, poultry, or slow-cooked, stewed meat.

6. Use Denture Adhesive

A denture adhesive can hold dentures in place and prevent gum irritation. For bigger bites — or sometimes chewing gum — denture adhesive can provide extra security.

Get or Maintain Your Dental Appliance at Direct Denture Care

Do you need new dentures? Maybe you took too big a bite and need a little denture maintenance or repair. Whatever the situation, we can help you at Direct Denture Care. Contact us today, and we’ll support you through the first few weeks of wearing your new dentures. Call us on (08) 9440 1540 or submit and enquiry online.

Dentures are delicate dental appliances, and they can come with many recommendations regarding maintenance and what not to chew. Ideally, dentures will mimic natural teeth as best as possible, but that doesn’t change the fact that they don’t attach to your mouth. (Even implant-supported dentures latch onto titanium screws rather than your gums.) So, although denture wearers should avoid chewing hard, sticky or gummy textures, chewing gum can be an entirely different story. Here’s how you can chew gum without dislodging or wearing out your dentures!

Why Chewing Gum Isn’t As Big a Deal As You Think It Is

Today’s dentures and their technological advancements are a far cry from the ill-fitting originals of yesteryear. Nowadays, you can count on denture attachments and implant support to secure your dentures in place. If your set has either denture attachments (e.g. metal clasps, precision attachments or magnets — available for partial dentures only) or implant support, chances are you’ll fare fine with regular chewing gum. That said, that doesn’t mean you can’t be picky about your sticky, minty-fresh favourites. Think about the following when finding your favourite gum.

Find a Denture-Friendly Brand

When perusing all the labels of the gums you could be using, keep your eyes peeled for ‘non-stick certifications’ — in other words, assurances that the gum will not stick to dentures or prostheses. If the manufacturer has already toned down the stickiness, chances are they’ve toned down the colour of the gum to neutral, too. Remember: the more boring and neutral this nondescript shade, the less it will leave its mark on your artificial teeth. Some good brands that tick both these boxes are Oral7® Chewing Gum and Freedent (by Wrigley’s).

Neutral, Soft & Even

You want to keep your gum low-stick in a neutral colour — but what other features should you look for in denture-friendly gum? If possible, it’s usually best to find a soft product, especially if you’re first starting out. Chew your soft gum slowly, distributing it evenly across the mouth to prevent wearing out or straining a particular section of the prosthesis. Starting with a slow and even approach can help you ease into gum chewing.

Keep the Sugar to a Minimum

If you have partial dentures, you’ll want to find a product containing minimal sugar — ideally none. While your artificial teeth cannot sustain cavities, your natural teeth still can — especially those sitting adjacent to your partial dentures. Freedent is a low-sugar option, containing only two grams of sugar per stick. Oral7® Chewing Gum is a sugar-free formulation built to motivate saliva production and protect against plaque and other nasties.

Removing Chewing Gum From Dentures

Despite your best efforts, you find yourself in a sticky situation — what to do from here? We can tell you what not to do, and that’s applying heat of any kind. As a seasoned denture wearer would know, immersing the appliance in boiling water is a red-hot no-no. Because the prosthesis is delicate and vulnerable to heat distortion, you should keep your hair dryer pointed away from your dentures, even at its lowest setting.

So, how do you remove chewing gum from your dentures? The best method is to remove as much as you can by hand before leaving it to soak in warm — NOT hot — vinegar, which can help dissolve any residue.

For a Better Chewing Experience

However well your dentures can handle chewing gum, they can always use a little extra help. For a better chewing experience, why not apply some dental adhesive? Available as a cream, powder, pad or strip, dental adhesive creates a thin layer between the gums and denture base to enhance the seal and reduce movement. Whether you’re talking, eating or chewing gum, dental adhesive can prove itself to be a great stabilising presence and excellent for that extra peace of mind. 

For All Other Concerns…

Still concerned about chewing gum with dentures in? Or do you have a different denture-related enquiry entirely? Whatever’s going on, send us your enquiry online, and we’ll respond to you as soon as we can. Alternatively, you can also call Direct Denture Care directly on (08) 9440 1540.

Dental care looks slightly different for denture wearers — no less because they swap traditional toothpaste and mouthwash for denture cleaner and tablets. Whether you have natural or artificial teeth, cleaning them daily is essential for removing the bacteria that cause bad breath and infections. If you’re new to dentures — or need a refresher on refreshing those porcelain pearly whites — this blog post will give an overview of everything you need to know about denture–cleaning tablets. So, without further ado, let’s sink our teeth into it!

Denture-Cleaning Tablets: An Overview

Denture–cleaning tablets contain chemical oxidants and ingredients that respectively remove food stains and bacteria beyond the reach of a denture brush. With the help of effervescent ingredients, cleaning compounds disperse to freshen up — and remove stains from — dentures. Brushing dentures post-soak will only deepen all these benefits.

What’s Inside

So, what specifically are these chemical oxidants and effervescent chemicals? If this gives you any idea, denture tablets’ chemical composition is a less abrasive variation on those of household cleaners and laundry detergents. Crack open denture tablets is this is what you may find:

• Sodium bicarbonate and citric acid: A salty duo that join forces to produce hydrogen-peroxide, ergo triggering that ‘effervescence’ that distributes the active ingredients throughout.
• Sodium lauryl sulphate: The surfactant that ensures everything gets into the solution.
• Potassium persulphate: Oxidises stains.
• Sodium perborate: Bleaches dentures to whiten them and kill bacteria.
• Sodium sulphite: Prevents the metal parts and pieces from corrosion.
• Penta-sodium triphosphate: Extends the life of the clean finish by stabilising the hydrogen-peroxide during the chemical reaction.

Teeth-grittingly important: While sharing a similar composition, household cleaners and denture–cleaning tablets are not one and the same. Ergo, when it comes to cleaning dentures, you should NOT alternate between the two. Using household cleaners on dentures is never a safe option, and you should always ensure you use a denture-specific cleaner.

How To Use Denture-Cleaning Tablets

Denture–cleaning tablets are rather user-friendly, as you can see from our step-by-step guide below:

1. Prepare a glass or container of lukewarm water and put your dentures inside it.
2. Put one of your denture tablets in the water and leave it to soak for however long the instructions on the packaging specify. A typical duration can look like three to five minutes, or it can be at least one hour.
3. Once the ‘soaking’ time has passed, clean your dentures with the cleaning solution using a soft-bristled toothbrush or denture brush.
4. Remove the dentures from the cleaning solution and rinse them under cold running water. It’s important to avoid hot water when dealing with dentures, as it can compromise their delicate, customised structure.
5. The moment you’re finished with the cleaning solution, discard it.

Teeth-gritted disclaimer: Denture–cleaning tablets are a fantastic way to freshen dentures daily. However, just as someone with natural teeth shouldn’t rely on mouthwash alone, someone with dentures shouldn’t consider denture tablets the be-all and end-all. Here are some more critical aspects of denture cleaning to incorporate into your every day.

1. Daily Brushing

Remove your dentures from your mouth and clean them with a soft-bristled toothbrush or denture brush, as well as some liquid soap or denture cleaner. While denture tablets do give a great once-over, nothing compares to manual motions from a toothbrush, which stop plaque in its tracks and prevent further buildup. When brushing, you should never use regular toothpaste, as this contains abrasive ingredients that will wear out your dentures.

2. Post-Eating Maintenance

After you’ve finished eating (or drinking anything other than water, such as coffee), you should remove your dentures and rinse them with running water (remember: hot water will land you in hot water). You should also rinse your mouth. Note that you shouldn’t need to brush or use denture cleaner between these eating interludes. A rinse beneath running water will remove residue and dislodge enough plaque-causing food particles to keep your dentures feeling fresh.

3. Professional Consultations

While this isn’t a daily component of denture care, you should certainly consult a denturist if you’re finding stubborn stains that a brush can’t budge. As well as removing stains, denturists can check for cracks in your dentures that may be harbouring bacteria. In this case, they may recommend denture repair to prevent further damage, and potentially get to the bottom of why you can’t clean your dentures. Denturists can also polish dentures to appear shiny and new, with a surface so slick that it makes for easier day-to-day cleaning.

Booking Your Professional Consultation

Whether you need help with denture cleaning or another type of denture maintenance, you can count on Direct Denture Care to get to the bottom of whatever’s got you down in the mouth. From denture repairs (regular and emergency) to denture relining, we have all the services you need to keep your dentures aesthetic and functional. 

Denture-wearing is a well-worn road, but we also have services for newbies — whether you want to fit partial dentures or the full enchilada — some available as a same-day service. For something more permanent, we also offer implant overdentures. To keep your dentures safe — regardless of whether you’re new to dentures or have been wearing them for a while — we can make you a mouthguard customised to your smile.

If you’re in need of any of the services above, book an appointment with Direct Denture Care today. You can find a clinic in either Balcatta or Hillarys in Perth. 

If you wear dentures, you’ll want to do everything you can to ensure they live a long and happy life. From mimicking the movement of natural teeth to giving you a glinting mouthful of pearly whites, dentures do a lot for you — so you’ll want to preserve their quality and appearance for as long as possible. In this blog post, we’ll break down some of the golden rules for your pearly whites — from denture maintenance to daily dos and don’ts. So, without further ado, let’s get into it!

Dos & Don’ts of Cleaning Dentures

Just as natural teeth require daily cleaning, so too do your dentures. That said, as much as dentures resemble naturally occurring teeth, they are not the same — so they will require a different cleaning method. Here are the dos and don’ts of cleaning dentures.

Do: Rinse Your Dentures

After eating — or drinking anything apart from water — you should remove your dentures and rinse them beneath running water. Alternatively, pool water in the sink and rinse your dentures like your dishes. While the latter method will ensure you won’t drop and break your dentures, it won’t provide the same water pressure renowned for dislodging food particles or removing residue from beverages — especially ones that stain, such as coffee. So, use your best judgement here.

The sooner you rinse your dentures after eating or drinking, the less opportunity plaque has to grow or stains have to ingrain themselves.

Don’t: Use Hot Water

Whether you’re rinsing, soaking or cleaning your dentures, one thing’s for sure: boiling or hot water will land you in — well, hot water. If your dentures come into contact with too-hot water, they risk compromising their delicate, custom-made structure. Although common sense suggests that boiling water is the deep-cleaning go-to, you’re much better off cleansing your dentures in warm water.

Do: Remove Your Dentures Before Brushing

While you can brush your dentures while wearing them, the only way to achieve a thorough clean is to remove them from your mouth. Moreover, if you’re cleaning your dentures with a denture cleanser, you should never apply this inside the mouth, as it contains a highly toxic ingredient called persulfate.

Don’t: Use Regular Toothpaste

While we’re discussing what to brush onto your dentures, regular toothpaste won’t cut it. While some non-abrasive variants may be okay, it’s best to use paste or cleanser specifically made for dentures. Because dentures are not natural teeth, chances are the formula in regular toothpaste will be too abrasive for their porcelain or acrylic resin. This problem is especially the case with teeth-whitening toothpaste, which whitens natural teeth but damages dentures due to its bleaching chemical.

Do: Use a Soft-Bristled or Denture Toothbrush

As aforementioned, dentures are usually porcelain or acrylic resin — they don’t have the toughness of enamel. For this reason, you should gently clean your dentures using either a soft-bristled toothbrush or a brush made specifically for denture surfaces.

Don’t: Neglect Old Denture Adhesive

If you use denture adhesive, it won’t seal if you try to apply it on top of the older product. Clean off all the old adhesive gel before you take your dentures out for the night.

Do: Brush Every Day & After Eating

Just because your teeth are artificial doesn’t mean they’re immune to plaque. Make sure to brush your dentures at least once daily, covering all its surfaces. For the best results, clean them after eating — or at least after consuming foods that stick or stain.

Handling Dentures With Care

Of course, a key component to preserving the quality and appearance of your dentures is to handle them with care. Made from porcelain or acrylic resin — and fashioned to fit your mouth using a delicate structure — dentures can break relatively easily. Lest you require same–day denture repair, here are some tips to avoid roughhousing your delicate dental appliance.

1. Wet Your Hands

As counterintuitive as it sounds, handling dentures with wet hands can give a secure grip and help prevent slippage. On the other hand, considering dentures almost always exist in a wet environment — be it your mouth or the glass of water by the bed — this checks out.

2. Don’t Bend or Twist

Dentures are aligned to fit inside the unique shape of your mouth. For this reason, don’t bend or twist your dentures while holding them, as this will almost certainly compromise their customised structure.

3. Leverage Towels or Basins

If you’re cleaning your dentures by hand, you may wish to do so over a towel or basin of water. Should the worst happen and you drop your dentures, a towel or pool of water may help cushion the blow.

4. Be Gentle

Perhaps the most obvious advice is to handle your dentures with all the gentleness in the world — just as you would with any fragile structure.

Storage & Overnight Care

Because dentures come out of the mouth, storing them overnight usually becomes part of the nightly dental routine. Here are some quick tips relating to storage and overnight care.

1. Soak Them Overnight

Whenever most people envision dentures, they picture them in a glass of water by the bed. You should store them overnight this way, as a nightlong soak will keep your dentures in their preferred state — wet — and prevent warping. If you’re trying to remove stains or desire a deeper clean, you can also fill the glass with a denture-cleaning solution.

2. Keep Them Away From Children & Pets

If you have little ones hanging around — be they human, furry, sharp-beaked or stealthy in any way — you need to keep your dentures out of their reach. You wouldn’t want them to break them or compromise their structure.

3. Keep Them Away From Heat Sources

Remember, hot water is a no-no if you’re handling dentures with care — so it only follows that you should keep them away from all heat sources. You wouldn’t want to risk deforming your tailor-made dentures.

4. Travel With (Denture) Care

If you’re travelling, you should ideally bring your glass, denture brush, paste or cleanser, and cleaning solution (if applicable). If this is not possible or practical, you can store your dentures in a zip-locked bag — as long as you thoroughly rinse them before re-wearing them!

Eating & Chewing Guidelines

However well dentures emulate natural tooth function, they do differ from the real thing. Accordingly, how you eat and chew with a pair of dentures will also vary from the norm. So, whether you’re new to dentures or you’ve been wearing them for a while, here are some eating and chewing guidelines to refer back to.

Do: Build Up to Solids

When you start wearing dentures, you may feel tempted to dive straight back into solid foods. That said, wearing dentures is a considerable adjustment, and you should ride out the transition by starting soft and gradually hardening up. Here’s our recommendation:

• Weeks 1–2: Adopt a diet of liquids or soft foods that don’t require chewing, such as soup, yoghurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes or applesauce.

• Weeks 3–4: Introduce soft solids, such as vegetables, pasta, meat or tofu, cut into small chunks.

• Week 4 onwards: You may now introduce slightly chewier foods.

Don’t: Eat Anything Sticky, Hard or Gummy

However you slice it, dentures function and sit in the mouth differently from natural teeth. They have a more delicate build and a much looser grip on the jaw. Accordingly, this means you should forgo foods with sticky, hard or gummy textures, such as:

• Popcorn or nuts: Those with natural teeth know the annoyance of kernels, seeds or sharp fragments catching in the teeth. In the case of dentures, imagine this — only under the appliance itself. It can cause a lot of pain and irritation.

• Multigrain bread or crackers: Similar to the above — multigrain products are renowned for little seeds that can get stuck in crannies.

• Sticky, hard or gummy lollies: A sweet moment on the lips versus the ordeal of trying to reattach your dislodged dentures.

• Steak and gristly/chewy meats: Tough textures such as these put enough pressure on dentures to dislodge them.

• Raw fruits and vegetables: See above.

• Nut butters: Do you want to scrape this off your dentures later? Because this stuff will stick.

If you find yourself craving any of the above, you can make it work by a) applying denture adhesive and b) chewing the food thoroughly before swallowing.

Do: Eat Soft Foods

The list of foods to consume week-by-week was not exhaustive. Once your dentures have found their place in your mouth, feel free to chow down on:

• Fruit that’s soft and ripe
• Vegetables — boiled, steamed or roasted
• Ground-up or slow-cooked meats
• Spreads or dips, as long as they’re smooth.

Don’t: Ramp the Heat Too High

Having established that dentures and heat are not a good mix, it should be no surprise that hot foods and drinks are also not the best idea. Like many of the sticky, hard or gummy foods listed, sustenance coming in hot can loosen your dentures — having a more significant potential for damage the longer they’re in your mouth. While we’re not banning tea or coffee, we advise you to set the kettle just below the boil — or give your drink a moment to cool. Furthermore, wearing dentures can dampen heat sensitivity in the mouth. To avoid burning your tongue or mouth, we recommend holding the hot food or drink against your lips before consuming it.

Do: Take Small Bites

When you start something new, you should usually take baby steps. Similarly, when starting with dentures, you should take nibbles or smaller bites. Not only will this feel more comfortable, but it can also help you avoid choking.

Don’t: Rush

If you’ve ever heard of mindful eating, this is more or less what we’re recommending. While savouring every bite aids mindfulness and digestion, taking it slow can also smoothen the transition into your new dentures. 

Do: Use Denture Adhesive

While this is not compulsory, it’s an excellent recommendation for those concerned about loosening dentures. For peace of mind, apply denture adhesive to hold your appliance in place as you eat. It also has the bonus of preventing gum sores and irritation.

Don’t: Isolate Chewing to One Side

If you chew on a preferred side of the mouth, now is the time to even things up. When you chew on one side more than the other, you wear down your dentures on that side and risk dislodging them. 

Regular Check-Ups & Maintenance

Dentures are a lifelong commitment. Once you have them, you should see your denturist yearly for regular check-ups and maintenance. What do denturists look out for at these appointments? Let’s check!

1. Changes in Mouth Shape

Your mouth changes over time. Your tissues may shrink, or your bone structure may change. When this happens, your dentures won’t move with the changes — simply because they’re not part of your mouth. Your denturist will need to adjust or reline your dentures so they’re a comfortable fit for your mouth — as it is today.

2. Oral Conditions

As is done at a regular dentist, a full or partial denture dentist will check your mouth for any oral conditions. If they notice anything amiss, they’ll administer or recommend the appropriate treatment as fast as possible.

3. Wear & Tear

Of course, denturists will check your dentures for wear and tear — which is more serious than it sounds. Chipped, cracked or worn-out dentures can alter fit or bite, leading to sores or gum inflammation. Moreover, ill-fitting dentures can compromise your ability to speak or chew, as well as your facial appearance.

4. Plaque & Staining

Your denturist will also look out for unsightly plaque or stains — which they’ll endeavour to remove with the annual deep clean. Not only will this clean preserve the appearance of your dentures, but it will also help you with your oral hygiene.

For Ultimate (Direct) Denture Care

Now you know how to preserve the quality and appearance of your dentures, it’s time to book your check-up with a denturist who gets it. At Direct Denture Care, we fit the finest partial and full dentures Perth has to offer. From creating customised appliances from scratch to providing same–day denture repair, we do what we can to ensure you get the most out of your set of pearly whites. Book your appointment at Direct Denture Care, whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or you’re due for a check-up or reline. We’ll set your smile straight and set you back on track!

False teeth are not all-or-nothing. While many envision dentures in their full, traditional form, there actually are alternatives that accommodate those who’ve only lost some — and not all — of their teeth. These are called partial dentures, and they’re tailored to fit unique mouth shapes and dental gaps. 

If you’ve decided that partial dentures are the right solution for you, it’s time to do your research. In this blog post, you will find out how to compare different materials, costs, and options for partial dentures, and what to expect from the fitting process.

What Are Partial Dentures?

Before we dive into the differences between  — and similarities of — each denture, let’s establish a clear picture of a partial denture. As alluded to earlier, partial dentures are dental appliances containing prosthetic teeth, but not enough to complete an entire row. Like full dentures, partial dentures are customised to the mouth, but they take the customisation process a step further by omitting teeth from the prosthesis. They are a great solution for patients who have too many teeth missing to justify dental implants — which are $1,500 a pop — and too many teeth remaining to undergo All-On-4 treatment. Of course, each case is different, and all patients are free to review their options with a professional, there’s also no denying that dentures are the least invasive and most cost-effective option.

Partial dentures consist of two parts: a gum-coloured base to wear over — and blend into — the gum, and the prosthetic teeth themselves. Here are the reasons why patients may opt for partial dentures:

Aesthetics

Missing teeth never flatters the face. Partial dentures will fill in the blanks of a gap-toothed grin.

Functionality

Of course, missing teeth also compromise chewing ability. With partial dentures, patients can enjoy eating as they did before their tooth loss: without complication.

Orthodontic Correction

Teeth sometimes rely on other teeth for support. So, when you lose a supporting tooth, this may set the remaining tooth adrift, compromising your occlusion (bite). However, when you fill the gaps with prosthetics, the natural teeth will receive the stability they need, remaining in place. In other words, partial dentures resolve this orthodontic issue.

Full Denture Support

Some patients may wear a full denture along one arch but have some natural teeth remaining on the other. In cases such as these, your dental prosthetist may recommend wearing a partial denture to support the full one. Of course, each partial denture will have pros and cons depending on what you need from it. Your dental prosthetist will walk you through your options and make recommendations accordingly.

Selecting a Material

Once you’ve decided that partial dentures are the option you want to go with, you’ll need to choose between different characteristics. Materials is a great place to start.

Acrylic

Perhaps the most cost-effective material, acrylic is best for patients who’ve lost a significant amount of teeth or those who may require teeth extraction down the line. This is because acrylic dentures are the easiest to modify, repair and reline.

Thermoplastic Nylon

With a thermoplastic nylon base, the prosthetic teeth on your denture will slot into the teeth sockets, negating the need for metal retainers. For a similar experience, you can also try a resin retainer, which comes either transparent or tooth-coloured.

Vitallium

Vitallium, a type of cast metal, is safe for oral use. Dentures of this material are the thinnest, smallest and strongest of the lot. If you want the best available support for your remaining teeth, vitallium dentures might be right for you.

Knowing the Costs

As is the case with all dental work or appliances, there’s never a set price. Costs will vary from case to case, especially with partial dentures, as different amounts of false teeth will influence the final cost. That said, once you’ve decided on your material of choice and considered the average amount of false teeth used per partial denture, you can usually establish a ballpark figure, which is as follows:

Partial Denture Costs in Western Australia

The cost of a partial denture will vary depending on the material. In Western Australia, the average cost of a partial acrylic denture falls between $1,100 and $2,800. This is perhaps the cheapest option, as you’ll pay more than double for a nylon partial denture, which averages $4,000 to $8,000. The partial denture with the smallest range in cost, however, is the vitallium variant, which can cost from $1,600 to $2,000.

What To Expect From the Fitting Process

The road to partial dentures has multiple steps. Let’s review what you can expect throughout the fitting process.

Step 1: The Consultation

Before opting for any dental treatment, you almost always begin with a consultation: that initial appointment where you review your options, decide which (if any) you would like, and schedule your next appointment(s) to put the wheels in motion.

Step 2: Making an Impression

For the appliance to fit in your mouth, we need to take an impression of your mouth’s interior, which we’ll use to create a wax mould of your partial dentures. Think of this as the (wax) dummy pair that you need to ‘try on’ to confirm sizing. If the prototype sits and fits well, we’ll model your actual partial dentures off it.

Step 3: Fitting the Real Deal

Once we have your partial dentures ready, we’ll call you in for another fitting. During this appointment, you can confirm if they feel comfortable and secure in your mouth. If not, we’ll commit to making adjustments accordingly.

Step 4: Navigating the Teething Issues

Over the first few weeks, you may experience discomfort or notice that your dentures feel looser than they did at the fitting. If this happens, organise another appointment with us, and we can set you back on course.

Making the Full Commitment to Partial Dentures

Now you know what partial dentures are made of and roughly how much they’ll set you back, it’s time to review your options with one of our dental prosthetists. Yours aren’t the first partial teeth Perth has seen, and they won’t be the last. To initiate your fitting process, book your first consultation with Direct Denture Care. You can call us on (08) 9440 1540, or drop an enquiry with us online via our Contact Us page. 

However partial your prosthesis, a prosthesis from Direct Denture Care will help you have your full smile again.

If you’re considering getting removable dentures, you’ve come to the right place. Direct Denture Care does all things dentures, from denture repairs to providing partial and full dentures in Perth. While removable dentures are a quality dental solution, they may not meet your specific needs and preferences. So, if you’ve got that nagging feeling, you can set your mind to rest. We’re about to shed light on the world’s most well-known dental appliance by addressing those common questions associated with dentures.

What Are the Specific Dental Needs That Removable Dentures Can Address Effectively?

1. Tooth Loss

Perhaps the most obvious dental need that removable dentures address is missing teeth. Whether you need full or partial dentures, this dental appliance will fill a gap-toothed grin or replenish a gummy smile with a whole new set of pearly whites — until you remove it from your mouth, of course.

2. Chewing & Speaking

Teeth assist with speech just as much as they do with chewing. So, if you’ve been struggling to chomp your food or speak with clarity, dentures may be just the restorative solution you need. Goodbye, liquid diet; hello, decipherable consonants!

3. Facial Structure

If you thought speech quality was the sole casualty of tooth loss, think again. Teeth are part of your skeleton, so it should serve as no surprise that losing part of your facial framework can compromise your facial structure. If you want to support those facial muscles, dentures may be a great way to define your profile and prevent sags.

How Can You Customise Removable Dentures To Match Your Individual Preferences & Aesthetic Requirements?

Customising removable dentures should be inherent to the process of getting them. Working with your dentist or denturist, you should specify the following to ensure you get a result tailored to your mouth:

1. Colour, Shape & Size

Work with your dentist or denturist to choose your desired tooth colour and shade. Consider factors such as the natural colour of your remaining teeth, your skin tone and personal preferences. When determining the shape and size of your denture teeth, you should consider factors such as your facial shape, gender and age. When you work in all of the above, the final product — your denture teeth — should blend into your smile and overall demeanour, making for a natural and harmonious appearance.

2. Dental Arrangement & Alignment

Determine the arrangement of the denture teeth. Your dentist or denturist will consider factors like the alignment of natural teeth, spacing and your bite pattern. They’ll also ensure that the front teeth align with your natural facial midline, unlocking a balanced and harmonious smile. Tailoring the dentures to your dental and facial features, your dentist is set to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing arrangement.

3. Gum Colour, Texture & Contour

Customise the colour and texture of the denture gums to mimic the natural appearance of oral tissues. This includes considering variations in gum colour, translucency and surface texture to ensure a lifelike result. You should also discuss the contour and shape of the gum line. The dentist or denturist will work to create a natural-looking transition between the denture base and your gums, paying attention to details such as the curvature of the gum tissue.

4. Photographic Documentation

Some dentists or denturists use photographic documentation during the customisation process. This helps capture details and nuances of your natural smile, aiding in the creation of dentures that closely resemble your original teeth.

Are There Limitations to What Removable Dentures Can Achieve in Terms of Meeting Specific Dental Needs and Preferences?

1. Stability & Chewing Efficiency

Removable dentures may not provide the same stability and chewing efficiency as natural teeth. While advancements in denture technology have improved their function, they may not match the biting force of natural dentition.

2. Bone Resorption

Over time, wearing removable dentures can contribute to bone resorption in the jaw. The pressure applied to the soft tissues during chewing is different from the natural stimulation provided by tooth roots. This can lead to gradual bone loss, affecting the fit of the dentures over time.

3. Speech Changes

Some individuals may experience changes in speech patterns when adapting to removable dentures. Because it can take time to adjust to the presence of the prosthesis, they may notice these speech issues at first — though they should ultimately resolve over time.

4. Aesthetics

While denturists can customise dentures to appear as realistic as possible, there may be limitations to achieving an entirely natural look. Denture aesthetics may not fully replicate the complexity and individuality of natural teeth.

How Do Removable Dentures Compare to Other Tooth Replacement Options, & Under What Circumstances Are They the Best Choice?

The major difference between removable dentures and other tooth replacement options is permanence. While most — if not all — other prosthetics either attach via implant or bonding, dentures are something you can remove at will. Let’s examine the other tooth replacement options and see how dentures compare.

1. Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are single artificial teeth, typically made from porcelain, though they can also be made from ceramic, metal or metal alloys, zirconia, composite resin, or a blend of these. Crowns can fill dental gaps, or they can fit over natural teeth — once your dentist has filed down the tooth in question to accommodate the crown. A common choice, crowns are the ideal aesthetic and functional solution for single missing teeth.

They’re typically bonded in place and irremovable, rendering them a more permanent solution. Think of them as stronger and permanent alternatives to partial dentures, which also have more biting power. Of course, if permanent teeth alterations make your teeth chatter, you may prefer to stick with dentures or implants.

2. Dental Implants

In their simplest form, dental implants are titanium screws that stand in for missing tooth roots. A dentist or dental surgeon will attach them to the jawbone while the patient is under anaesthetic. Though the most invasive tooth replacement, implants are by far the most secure. You can get either single implants — where you attach a crown to a single screw — or you can undergo All-on-4 treatment, which calls for four implants and an attaching full-arch prosthesis.

Obviously, the most striking difference between implants and dentures is that you can’t remove the former from your mouth. However high-quality your dentures may be, implants will also give greater biting power due to attaching to the jawbone and essentially stepping in for tooth roots.

3. Dental Bridges

Traditionally consisting of three crowns fused together, dental bridges are an aesthetic — as well as functional — dental solution. Rather than replacing a full arch, they isolate their focus to a specific cluster of teeth — so, in this regard, they’re like the permanent version of a partial denture. While bridges are built to fill a gaping gap with a crown, their namesake derives from the two crowns adjacent to the middle one. These two crowns attach to the two natural teeth that neighbour the dental gap — almost always after your dentist has filed them down to fit the crowns.

An obvious drawback of this tooth replacement is the fact that it calls for your dentist to irreversibly alter your teeth. It’s also more difficult to clean or maintain than dentures, especially considering there are natural teeth beneath the crowns. Of course, if you need a full-arch restoration, bridges do not even compare to dentures. They will have stronger biting power, though.

Overall, dentures are decent stand-ins for natural teeth that should provide adequate biting power and speech correction. They’re the least invasive option, they’re more cost-effective and they’re easier to clean. Other tooth replacements are typically more permanent and have greater biting power, though they can involve surgery and may be more difficult to maintain. The choice of which tooth replacement fits best in your mouth will be a subjective one.

Can You Adapt Removable Dentures to Changing Oral Health Conditions & Evolving Preferences Over Time?

Yes, you can adapt removable dentures to changing oral health conditions and evolving preferences over time. Here are ways in which you can adjust and customise your dentures:

1. Relining

Over time, changes in the shape of the jawbone or gum tissues can occur. Dentures may become loose or uncomfortable. Relining involves adding a new layer of material to the inner surface of the denture to improve the fit. This is a common procedure to address changes in the oral anatomy.

2. Rebasing

If the denture base remains in good condition but the teeth are worn or damaged, a dentist may recommend rebasing. This involves replacing the entire acrylic base while retaining the existing denture teeth. It helps maintain the fit and function of the denture.

3. Adjustments

Regular adjustments to the denture may be necessary to address issues such as sore spots, uneven bite or discomfort. Dentists can make small modifications to improve the fit and comfort of the dentures.

4. Tooth Replacement

If individual denture teeth become damaged or worn, you can replace them without altering the entire denture. This targeted approach allows for the replacement of specific teeth, maintaining the overall functionality of the denture.

5. Cosmetic Enhancements

You can accommodate changes in aesthetic preferences by making cosmetic enhancements to the denture. This may include adjustments to the shape, size or colour of the denture teeth to better align with your evolving preferences.

Direct Denture Care Can Take Care of All Your Denture-Related Needs

Now you know everything there is to know about dentures, it’s time to take action. Whether you require denture repairs or a new set of prosthetic teeth, we have the best partial and full dentures Perth has to offer. Call Direct Denture Care on (08) 9440 1540 or fill out the online enquiry form on our website. If it’s denture care or repair you need, we’re only a phone call — or click — away. Sink your teeth into your own set of removable dentures today!