False Teeth Types: Pros, Cons & Modern Alternatives

False teeth - commonly known as dentures - have served as a time-tested solution to replace missing teeth for centuries. From crude wooden designs used in ancient Japan to the refined acrylic-based models available today, these dental prosthetics have come a long way. 

At Brighton Implant Clinic, we understand the importance of choosing the right treatment for your unique needs—whether that’s traditional dentures or cutting-edge dental implants.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of false teeth, their advantages and drawbacks, and how modern alternatives like implants are transforming smiles for good.

Understanding False Teeth: What Are They?

False teeth, or dentures, are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding oral tissues. They help restore the function and appearance of natural teeth while also supporting oral health and facial aesthetics.

There are two main categories:

• Complete (Full) Dentures: Replace all upper and/or lower teeth.
• Partial Dentures: Fill gaps where some natural teeth remain.
  
  

False teeth can be made from acrylic resin, metal, porcelain, or flexible polymers—each material offering unique advantages. While dentures are still widely used, modern implantology offers longer-lasting and more stable options.

Traditional Denture Types: Full and Partial

For patients considering false teeth, understanding traditional options is the first step. These have been staples in restorative dentistry for generations.

Full Dentures

Full dentures are used when all teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. They sit over the gums and are usually held in place by suction or denture adhesive.

Pros:

• Affordable and non-invasive
• Restores appearance and basic oral function
• Easy to produce and adjust
  
  

Cons:

• May loosen over time
• Can affect taste and speech
• Can accelerate jawbone shrinkage
  
  

Over time, bone loss beneath the denture base can alter fit, leading to discomfort or fungal infections if not cleaned properly.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They typically consist of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored base, secured by metal clasps or precision attachments.

Pros:

• Preserves remaining natural teeth
• More affordable than implants or bridges
• Easily removable for cleaning
  
  

Cons:

• Metal clasps may be visible
• Can cause discomfort or pressure points
• Less stable than fixed restorations
  
  

At Brighton Implant Clinic, we also offer flexible partial dentures, which are a more comfortable and aesthetic option than traditional rigid ones.

Immediate and Temporary Dentures

Sometimes, patients need a fast solution after having their teeth removed. That’s where immediate and temporary dentures come in.

Immediate Dentures

These are fabricated before tooth extraction and placed immediately after removal, allowing patients to maintain their smile during healing.

Benefits:

• No toothless waiting period
• Supports healing tissues
  
  

Considerations:

• Often require relining or replacement once gums heal
  
  

Temporary Dentures

Made for short-term use, these are typically used while waiting for implant placement or permanent dentures.

They serve as a vital interim step, especially in full-mouth restorations or All-on-Four implant procedures, which are a cornerstone of our advanced implant services.

Flexible Dentures: Comfort Meets Aesthetics

A newer option gaining popularity is flexible dentures made from materials like nylon. They are lightweight, bendable, and free of metal clasps—making them ideal for those with metal sensitivities.

Advantages:

• Natural-looking and discreet
• Comfortable fit that adapts to gum contours
• Hypoallergenic
  
  

Drawbacks:

• Limited repairability
• May wear faster than acrylic-based dentures
  
  

Flexible dentures are especially appealing to patients first transitioning to false teeth.

Implant-Supported Dentures: Stability Reinvented

When traditional dentures aren’t providing the needed stability, implant-supported dentures offer a reliable and modern upgrade. These involve placing titanium implants into the jawbone, which serve as anchors for removable dentures.

At Brighton Implant Clinic, we frequently recommend implant overdentures, especially for the lower jaw where traditional dentures tend to shift.

Key Benefits:

• Greater retention and stability
• Improved chewing ability
• Helps preserve jawbone and prevent facial collapse
  
  

Potential Challenges:

• Surgical placement required
• Higher upfront cost
• Requires ongoing maintenance of attachment systems
  
  

Fixed Implant Solutions: Bridges and All-on-Four

For those looking for a permanent solution that feels closest to natural teeth, fixed implant systems offer unmatched performance.

Implant-Supported Bridges

These use implants to support multiple missing teeth. For example, two implants may support a three-unit bridge.

Advantages:

• No need to alter adjacent healthy teeth
• Long-lasting and durable
  
  

Limitations:

• Requires sufficient bone density
• Higher initial investment
  
  

All-on-Four Implants

This technique replaces a full arch using just four implants strategically placed. It’s ideal for patients with significant tooth loss or loose-fitting dentures.

At Brighton Implant Clinic, we offer All-on-Four and Teeth in a Day treatments using advanced 3D imaging and guided surgery for optimal results.

Material Options: Pros & Cons

Selecting the right material for your false teeth is a critical step in ensuring comfort, durability, and aesthetic appeal. At Brighton Implant Clinic, we work closely with each patient to determine which material best aligns with their lifestyle, oral health condition, and cosmetic expectations. Let’s explore the most commonly used denture materials:

Acrylic Resin

Acrylic resin is one of the most widely used materials in the construction of both full and partial dentures. This material is especially popular due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of customization.

Pros:

• Lightweight and relatively comfortable
• Easy to adjust or repair
• Lower cost, ideal for temporary or immediate dentures
  
  

Cons:

• Less durable than porcelain or metal
• More prone to staining from food and beverages
• May wear down more quickly with regular use
  
  

Acrylic is often the go-to material for those seeking temporary dentures or first-time wearers getting used to their new prosthetics.

Porcelain

Porcelain is typically used for fixed prosthetics like dental bridges or implant-supported crowns but may occasionally be used in removable dentures for its natural appearance.

Pros:

• Highly aesthetic; mimics natural tooth enamel
• Durable and resistant to wear
• Feels more like natural teeth when biting
  
  

Cons:

• Can be brittle and prone to chipping if dropped
• Heavier than acrylic, which may affect comfort in removable dentures
• More expensive and not suitable for all cases
  
  

Porcelain is ideal for patients seeking permanent restorations and a highly realistic finish, especially in visible areas of the mouth.

Metal Frameworks

Metal is commonly used in partial dentures, particularly for patients who need a durable and stable prosthesis that can last for many years.

Pros:

• Strong and less bulky than acrylic bases
• Better distribution of chewing forces
• Less prone to breakage or deformation
  
  

Cons:

• May not be suitable for patients with metal allergies
• Less aesthetic, especially if clasps are visible
• Requires healthy remaining teeth for support
  
  

Our dentists often recommend metal-based partials for patients with multiple remaining natural teeth who require robust support and minimal interference during speech or eating.

Flexible Polymers

These newer materials, such as Valplast®, are used in flexible dentures that offer increased comfort and aesthetics, particularly for partial restorations.

Pros:

• Soft, flexible fit that adapts to gum contours
• No visible metal clasps
• Hypoallergenic and biocompatible
  
  

Cons:

• May not last as long as rigid materials
• Difficult to repair if damaged
• May lose shape over time with improper care
  
  

Flexible dentures are best suited for patients prioritizing aesthetics and comfort, especially in cases where traditional partials may cause irritation.

Denture Maintenance & Longevity Tips

Proper denture care doesn’t just preserve your investment—it protects your overall oral health. Whether you wear removable dentures, implant-supported dentures, or immediate dentures, the right maintenance routine can help prevent infections, gum irritation, and premature wear.

Daily Cleaning Practices

Your dentures should be cleaned daily to remove food debris, plaque, and bacteria. Unlike natural teeth, dentures are more porous and can harbour pathogens if not cleaned correctly.

How to clean your dentures:

• Rinse after meals to remove food particles
  Brush your dentures with a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner
• Avoid using regular toothpaste—it may be too harsh and cause micro-scratches
• Clean your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth to maintain oral hygiene
  
  

Remember to never use hot water to clean your dentures—it may warp their shape.

Nightly Removal & Soaking

Wearing dentures overnight can lead to complications such as fungal infections (e.g. denture stomatitis) and increased pressure on the jawbone.

Tips for nighttime care:

• Remove your dentures before bed
• Soak them in a denture cleansing solution to kill bacteria
• Let your gums rest overnight to prevent irritation and promote circulation
  
  

Patients often ask, “Should I wear my dentures at night?”—the answer is no, unless your dentist has advised otherwise during a temporary adjustment phase.

Routine Dental Check-ups

Even if you have no remaining natural teeth, regular visits to your dentist are still essential. During check-ups, we’ll assess:

• The fit and function of your dentures
• Signs of wear, cracking, or fungal buildup
• Changes in gum tissue and bone structure
  
  

Over time, jawbone shrinkage may cause dentures to become loose. In such cases, a denture reline, adjustment, or replacement may be required.

With proper care, dentures should last several years, but longevity depends heavily on hygiene and regular follow-up appointments.

Modern Alternatives to Dentures

While dentures remain an effective solution for many, advancements in dental technology have introduced superior alternatives that offer more stability, comfort, and long-term satisfaction. At Brighton Implant Clinic, we specialize in modern restorations that go beyond the limitations of traditional false teeth.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. A titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone, acting as an artificial root for a crown, bridge, or denture.

Benefits:

• Fixed in place—no movement while eating or speaking
• Stimulates the jawbone to prevent bone loss
• Feels and looks like natural teeth
• Long-lasting—often over 20 years with proper care
  
  

Ideal for:

• Patients with one or more missing teeth
• Those who are tired of poorly fitting dentures
• Individuals with good oral and systemic health
  
  

Brighton Implant Clinic offers both single-tooth implants and full-arch solutions, such as the All-on-Four system.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Unlike traditional bridges that rely on adjacent teeth, implant-supported bridges use two or more implants to anchor a series of artificial teeth.

Advantages:

• Doesn’t compromise adjacent healthy teeth
• Offers exceptional stability
• Natural-looking and easy to maintain
  
  

This is an excellent solution for patients missing multiple teeth in a row and seeking a fixed alternative without full-arch reconstruction.

Overdentures (Implant-Retained Dentures)

Overdentures combine the removability of dentures with the security of implants. They “click” onto implants using special attachments.

Key Features:

• Removable for cleaning
• Much more stable than conventional dentures
• Ideal for patients struggling with lower denture stability
  
  

In the lower jaw, typically 2 implants are used, while the upper jaw often requires 4 due to bone density differences. Overdentures are often more affordable than full fixed bridges but still significantly improve function and comfort.

Why Consider Modern Alternatives?

Many patients report improved:

• Chewing and digestion
• Speech clarity
• Confidence in social settings
  
  

Additionally, modern alternatives to dentures reduce the need for adhesives, eliminate sore spots, and help preserve bone structure. If you're struggling with dentures that no longer fit or feel comfortable, Brighton Implant Clinic offers a full suite of implant-based solutions tailored to your needs and budget.

FAQs

How long do dentures typically last?

Most dentures last between 5 to 10 years with proper care, though relines or adjustments may be needed due to natural changes in the jawbone.

Can I sleep with my dentures in?

It's generally advised to remove your dentures at night to allow gum tissues to recover and to prevent fungal growth.

Are dental implants better than false teeth?

Dental implants offer a more stable and natural-feeling solution. While they come at a higher initial cost, they last longer and prevent jawbone loss.

What are the signs my dentures need replacing?

If your dentures feel loose, cause irritation, or make clicking sounds while talking, it may be time to consult your dentist for a reline or replacement.

Are dentures available on the NHS?

Yes, standard dentures are available on the NHS, but options may be limited. Premium or implant-supported dentures are usually private services.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Solution for You

False teeth have come a long way—from ancient wooden prosthetics to today’s high-performance implant systems. Whether you're just starting your journey with a temporary denture or seeking a complete smile transformation with All-on-Four implants, there’s a solution that fits your needs.

At Brighton Implant Clinic, our goal is to help you restore your confidence, functionality, and quality of life. With locations in Brighton, Hove, Hailsham, and Worthing, our award-winning team is ready to support your journey with expert guidance and state-of-the-art care.

Book your FREE implant consultation today and discover how we can help you smile with confidence again.

👉 Contact Brighton Implant Clinic | ☎ 0800 111 6623

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