How Are Dentures Made?
Dentures can be made using traditional (analogue) methods or modern digital technology. Both result in custom-made dentures. The process is just different.
Traditional (Analogue) Dentures
This is the long-established method used by prosthetists and dental technicians. Every step is done by hand using physical moulds and materials.
Impressions
Your prosthetist takes moulds of your gums using a soft putty material. These capture the exact shape of your mouth.
Bite Registration
Wax blocks are used to record how your upper and lower jaws come together, so your new teeth will sit at the right height.
Try-In
Teeth are set in wax so you can see how they look and feel before the final denture is made. Adjustments are made at this stage.
Processing
The wax is replaced with acrylic resin in a laboratory. This is done by hand using plaster moulds and heat-curing.
Fitting & Adjustments
Your prosthetist checks the fit and bite, makes small adjustments, and ensures you're comfortable before you leave.
Digital Dentures
Digital dentures use computer technology at every step, from scanning your mouth to designing and manufacturing the denture.
Digital Scanning
Instead of putty, a small camera scans your mouth in seconds, creating a precise 3D digital model of your gums.
Digital Design
Software is used to design your denture on a computer screen. Tooth shape, size, and colour are selected digitally.
Virtual Try-In
In some cases, a trial denture can be printed in resin so you can try it before the final denture is milled.
Milling or 3D Printing
A computer-controlled machine either mills your denture from a solid block of material, or it is 3D printed in layers.
Fitting & Adjustments
The finished denture is fitted to your mouth with any final adjustments made for comfort and bite.