Dentures in Vancouver


A denture or a complete denture as it is often called, is an appliance that is inserted in the mouth, replaces natural teeth and provides support for the cheeks and lips.

Most dentures are made of acrylic and can be fabricated two different ways.

  • A conventional denture is made after all teeth have been extracted and the tissues (gums) have healed.
  • An immediate denture is fabricated and inserted immediately after the teeth are extracted and the tissues are allowed to heal under the denture.
  • An upper denture has acrylic, usually flesh colored, that covers the palate (roof of the mouth).
  • A lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to leave room for the tongue.

The teeth are made of plastic, porcelain or a combination of both. Dentures can be fabricated to fit over endodontically treated teeth and a complete denture can be attached to dental implants to allow for a more secure fit of the appliance.

Dentures over a normal course of time will wear and need to be replaced or relined in order to keep the jaw alignment normal. The alignment will slowly change as the bone and gum ridges recede or shrink due to the extraction of the teeth. Regular dental examinations are still important for the denture wearer so that the oral tissues can be checked for disease or change.

Denture Care & Maintenance: Everything You Need to Know

Proper denture care and routine maintenance are essential for your comfort, oral health, and the longevity of your dentures. Whether you’re new to dentures or have worn them for years, this guide covers the key aspects of caring for, maintaining, and adjusting your dentures over time.

Daily Denture Care$99 dollar new patient special

Taking care of your dentures each day helps prevent discomfort, infections, and damage.

Here’s what to do:

  • Rinse after meals to remove food particles and debris.

  • Brush daily with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap or denture cleaner. Avoid regular toothpaste—it can scratch the denture surface.

  • Soak overnight in a denture cleaning solution to keep them moist and maintain shape.

  • Clean your mouth, too—brush your gums, tongue, and any natural teeth daily.

Letting dentures dry out or failing to clean them regularly can lead to bad odors, irritation, and fungal infections.

Regular Exams & Professional Maintenance

Your mouth naturally changes shape over time. Even well-made dentures will eventually need adjustment. That’s why regular dental exams are critical.

During a denture maintenance visit, your dentist will:

  • Check for fit and stability

  • Examine your gums and oral tissues for signs of irritation or infection

  • Recommend adjustments, relines, or repairs if needed

Loose or poorly fitting dentures can cause sore spots, speech problems, and chewing difficulties. Routine check-ups ensure your dentures stay comfortable and functional.

Denture Relines

A denture reline adjusts the inner surface of your denture to better fit your gums as they change shape over time.

Types of relines:

  • Hard Reline: A durable acrylic is added to the inside of the denture. This is a long-lasting option usually performed in-office or by a dental lab.

  • Soft Reline: A flexible material is applied to cushion the denture. This is ideal for patients with tender gums or sore spots and provides more comfort than hard relines.

  • Temporary Reline: Often used after surgery or when the gums are healing. This may include a medicated material to reduce irritation.

Benefits of relining include:

  • Improved fit and comfort

  • Better chewing and speaking ability

  • Reduced gum irritation

  • Extended denture life

Rebase & Repair

If your denture base is cracked, worn, or no longer functional, a rebase might be recommended. This procedure replaces the entire acrylic base while keeping your existing denture teeth.

Common reasons for a rebase:

  • Cracked or damaged denture base

  • Stains or odor that can’t be removed

  • A denture that’s structurally compromised

Repairs may be needed for:

  • Chipped or broken teeth

  • Cracks in the denture base

  • Loose or missing components

Prompt repairs can often be done same-day and help avoid more extensive (and expensive) fixes down the road.

Soft Liners for Sensitive Gums

Soft liners are cushioning materials added to the inner surface of a denture. They create a soft barrier between your gums and the denture base.

Ideal for patients who:

  • Have sensitive gums

  • Experience recurring sore spots

  • Have flat or narrow ridges that make wearing dentures uncomfortable

Soft liners provide greater comfort, especially for those who can’t tolerate traditional hard acrylic bases. While they may need replacement more often than hard relines, they can greatly improve quality of life for certain patients.

Common Issues and Prevention

Common denture-related issues include:

  • Stomatitis: A fungal infection caused by poor hygiene or wearing dentures overnight

  • Irritation and sores: Often due to poor fit or lack of proper cleaning

  • Denture slipping or movement: A sign it’s time for a reline or adjustment

Prevent problems by:

  • Cleaning your dentures and mouth daily

  • Soaking dentures overnight

  • Removing dentures while you sleep

  • Scheduling regular dental exams

  • Getting timely adjustments or relines

Summary: Best Practices for Denture Health

Step What to Do Why It Matters
Clean Daily Rinse, brush, and soak Prevents buildup, odor, and infections
Care for Your Mouth Brush gums, tongue, natural teeth Maintains oral health and tissue integrity
Remove at Night Let tissues rest Reduces irritation and risk of infections
Routine Check-Ups Every 6–12 months Keeps dentures fitting properly
Repair & Reline as Needed At first sign of discomfort or wear Extends life of dentures and protects oral health

Ready for a Check-Up?

If your dentures feel loose, cause discomfort, or you’re due for an exam, contact us. Timely care ensures your dentures stay comfortable, functional, and supportive of your overall oral health.