Question regarding lower denture - Dental Health Message Board

Hacamila · 11-24-2003, 11:11 PM

I have had an upper denture for approx 2 months, and I am extremely happy with the outcome. Looks very natural, fits well, etc.
My problem is I need a lower denture really bad. I had planned to get a 4- implant supported lower denture. The procedure will also require a bone graft. At present, I don't have the finances to have the work done. I'm considering getting the lower denture without the implants, and possibly getting the implants at a later date. My question is, what problems can I expect from this? Can I keep the denture in place, can I eat (almost) normal, will they come out of my mouth when speaking, will they look as natural as my uppers? I realize they want stay in as well as the uppers, but will glue hold them in place? I HATE to choose this route, but unfortunately I feel like this is my only option for now. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Yos · 11-25-2003, 07:08 PM

Hi Hacamila,

It's good to hear that your upper denture is working out well so far. I've had a full upper & partial lower denture for just under a year and while I don't have first hand experience with a full lower denture I know people who do.

Your mention of a bone graft suggests to me that you have some significant bone loss but that shouldn't seriously affect keeping the denture in place if you don't mind using adhesive. I've read of people who had to cut out the palate of an upper denture (so it's just a horseshoe shape like the lower) because of gagging problems and keep them in all day with a single application of adhesive. If an upper denture like that will stay in with adhesive (paste not powder) then a lower denture will stay in place too. There's also a chance you may not need adhesive. It may stay in place well enough on its own. Where appearance is concerned, you can make your whole mouth look more natural by choosing a tooth color, shade and shape to match your upper denture.

If your lower teeth are in bad shape and the implant supported denture isn't possible in the forseeable future, a full lower denture would be a good choice. If you're happy with the uppers you'll probably be happy with the lowers too. Good luck!

Yos