Many patients wonder about the disadvantages of removable dentures. You don’t need to worry too much about this, because your dentist will choose the most appropriate type of denture for you based on your individual condition, overall health, appearance, and financial situation.
This article will walk you through the main pros and cons of removable dentures so that you and your dentist can make the most suitable treatment decision together.
1. What Are the Advantages of Removable Dentures?
Some of the most important benefits of removable dentures include:
- They help you restore your smile.
- They fill the gaps left by missing teeth.
- They bring back your ability to speak clearly and chew food properly.
- They improve self‑confidence and provide a natural-looking appearance.
2. What Are the Disadvantages of Removable Dentures?
Here are some drawbacks of removable dentures that every patient should be aware of:
- When first wearing removable dentures, some patients may experience gagging, but this usually subsides after a short adjustment period.
- Eating can be difficult at the beginning.
- Right after getting your dentures, you should stick to very soft foods until you get used to having them in your mouth.
- In the early stages, dentures may cause minor irritation or sore spots in the mouth because of friction with the oral tissues. This usually improves gradually with saltwater rinses and good oral hygiene.
- Many patients find it inconvenient to remove their dentures every night for cleaning.
- Another drawback is the need for regular checkups with the dentist to make sure there are no issues with the soft tissues, such as gum ulcerations or pressure sores.
3. How Do I Take Care of My Removable Dentures?
To maintain your removable dentures properly, follow these tips:
– Remove the dentures after meals and rinse them thoroughly with water, brushing them gently to remove any food particles or debris. Handle them carefully to avoid dropping and breaking them.
– Avoid bending the metal clasps or applying excessive pressure on any part of the denture during cleaning to prevent damage.
– Clean your mouth thoroughly after removing your dentures, paying special attention to brushing your gums and tongue to remove any remaining plaque or food.
– Take your dentures out before going to bed and place them in a container filled with water (or a soaking solution if recommended). Always follow your dentist’s specific instructions on overnight storage and cleaning.
4. Instructions After Full Mouth Extractions and Getting a Removable Denture
Important guidelines after having all your teeth removed and receiving a complete removable denture include:
– Many patients find removable dentures more challenging than fixed prostheses. Unfortunately, for a large number of people, removable dentures are the only realistic option, especially when they can’t afford dental implants.
– One of the major disadvantages of removable dentures is that patients must insert and remove them on their own. If you forget to remove them before sleeping, food debris can accumulate underneath and cause gum problems.
– Therefore, one of the most important recommendations is to remove your dentures at night, wash and clean them thoroughly, and avoid sleeping with them, to reduce the risk of inflammation or infection of the oral tissues.
– Store the dentures in a safe place to prevent them from being dropped or broken.
– Keep in mind that you will need a reasonable amount of time to train yourself and adapt to using them. At first, you may have difficulty speaking clearly and eating comfortably.
– Lower dentures are usually less stable than upper dentures because of the movement of the lower jaw and constant tongue activity.
– When you first start wearing dentures, eat only soft, tender, and slightly sticky foods until you become accustomed to them.
– It can take a significant period to fully adapt, but once that period passes, you may start to feel that your dentures are part of your own teeth.
– If you notice any problem with your dentures—such as pain, sore spots, or looseness—return to your dentist immediately to address the issue and avoid gum inflammation or injury.
If you are one of the people who need to wear removable dentures, you should understand that adjusting to them takes longer than adjusting to fixed restorations. It is also crucial to follow all your dentist’s instructions carefully and to consult them promptly if any problem arises.
5. Metal Dentures
Metal-based removable dentures are known for their high strength and durability. The metal framework is usually made from cobalt-chromium alloy. This type of prosthesis is considered effective and relatively cost‑efficient, and it is especially suitable for patients who are missing several teeth.
6. Cosmetic Dentures
Cosmetic (esthetic) dentures are an alternative to dental implants for replacing missing teeth. They are particularly useful for patients who cannot undergo implant surgery due to financial limitations or medical conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, certain cancers, and other systemic diseases that may contraindicate implant placement.
7. Are Removable Dentures Comfortable?
There is definitely an initial period of discomfort when you first start using removable dentures. However, with daily use and proper care, most patients adapt to them relatively quickly.
8. Are There Any Risks or Harm from Removable Dentures?
Removable dentures are generally safe and do not cause direct harm if used correctly. However, there are some negative aspects:
– It takes time for the patient to adapt to having them in the mouth, especially when it comes to eating and speaking in the early stages.
– Some people find it bothersome to remove, clean, and reinsert the dentures every single day as part of their bedtime routine.
Dr. Muslim Mansour
Specialist in Prosthodontics – Syrian Board in Dental Prosthodontics
Master’s Degree in Prosthodontics
16 years of experience in the field of dental prostheses
