Reviewed by Dr. Adel Elbaz, DDS, general dentist · Last reviewed
Dentures in London, Ontario
Dentures are removable replacement teeth. They restore your smile, let you chew a wider range of foods, support your lips and cheeks so your face doesn’t look sunken, and help with speech. Modern dentures are lighter, better-fitting and more natural-looking than many people expect.
At Lunar Smile Dentistry we make full and partial dentures and implant-supported dentures, and we look after denture wearers’ gums and any remaining teeth at regular check-ups.
Types of dentures
Complete (full) dentures
For when all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. A complete denture has a gum-coloured acrylic base with acrylic or porcelain teeth. Upper dentures are held by suction against the palate; lower dentures rest on the gum ridge and are held mostly by the tongue and cheeks, which is why they tend to be less stable.
- Conventional: made after the gums have healed from any extractions, usually a couple of months later.
- Immediate: made in advance and placed the same day teeth are removed, so you’re never without teeth. They usually need relining or replacing once the gums settle.
Partial dentures
For when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture fills the gaps and keeps the remaining teeth from drifting.
- Cast metal partials have a thin, strong metal framework with clasps that grip the natural teeth. They’re durable and less bulky.
- Acrylic partials are quicker and less expensive, and are often used as a temporary option.
- Flexible partials use a bendable resin with gum-coloured clasps, for comfort and appearance in suitable cases.
Implant-supported dentures
Two or more dental implants placed in the jaw hold the denture in place with clips or attachments. This is especially helpful for a loose lower denture. Implant-supported dentures:
- don’t slip or click when you talk or eat
- don’t need adhesive
- let you chew with more force
- help slow the bone loss that happens under regular dentures
Dentures, bridges or implants?
| Denture | Bridge | Implant | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed or removable | Removable | Fixed | Fixed (or holds a denture) |
| Replaces | One tooth to a full jaw | One to a few teeth | One tooth to a full jaw |
| Surgery | No | No | Yes, a minor procedure |
| Cost | Lowest | Moderate | Highest |
Dentures are often the simplest and most affordable way to replace several teeth, and can be upgraded with implants later.
Getting dentures: the process
- Exam and planning. We check your gums, remaining teeth and jaw, and take x-rays. Any teeth that can’t be saved are planned for removal.
- Impressions and bite records. We record the shape of your gums and how your jaws meet.
- Try-in. You try a wax version with the teeth set up, so you and we can check the look, fit and bite before the final denture is made.
- Delivery. We fit your finished denture and make adjustments.
- Follow-up visits. Sore spots are normal at first. We adjust the denture over the first few weeks until it’s comfortable.
Getting used to new dentures
- Eating: start with soft foods cut into small pieces, and chew on both sides at once. Avoid very sticky or hard foods at first.
- Speaking: some words may feel different for a few days. Reading aloud helps.
- Sore spots: don’t try to adjust the denture yourself. Call us and we’ll ease it.
- Saliva: you may notice extra saliva for the first few days.
Caring for dentures
- take them out and rinse after meals
- brush them daily with a soft denture brush and denture cleaner or mild soap (regular toothpaste is too abrasive)
- soak them overnight in water or a denture solution; never in hot water, which can warp them
- take them out for at least six hours a day, usually overnight, so your gums can rest
- brush your gums, tongue and any remaining teeth
- handle them over a folded towel or a sink of water in case you drop them
Relines and replacements
Your jawbone and gums slowly shrink after teeth are lost, so a denture that fit perfectly will gradually loosen. A reline adds new material to the fitting surface to restore the fit. Most dentures need relining every few years and replacing every several years as the teeth wear. Loose dentures can cause sores and make eating harder, so don’t rely on extra adhesive for long.
Cost and coverage
The cost depends on the type of denture and materials. Most dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of dentures. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers complete and partial dentures for eligible patients, and many seniors in London are now covered under CDCP. Our fees follow the Ontario Dental Association fee guide, and we give you an estimate before we start.
Common questions
How long does it take to get dentures?
Usually several weeks across a few appointments for conventional dentures. Immediate dentures are placed the day your teeth are removed.
Do I still need check-ups with full dentures?
Yes. We check your gums and mouth tissues, screen for oral cancer, and check the fit of your denture.
Can my existing denture be fixed to implants?
Sometimes. If your current denture is in good condition, we may be able to add attachments so it clips onto new implants.
Book a denture consultation in London
Book online or call 226-884-2573. We’re open six days a week, with evening appointments until 9 pm on weekdays. Every patient gets a free Uber ride here and back; see the offer.
Part of our restorative dentistry services in London, Ontario. See all dental services.