Assessment for missing teeth and existing dentures
A removable denture replaces some or all missing teeth. A partial denture replaces selected teeth, while a complete denture replaces all teeth in an upper or lower jaw. An assessment is needed before any appliance or treatment route can be recommended.
What you can expect
- Assessment of missing teeth or an existing denture
- Options discussed after examination
- Advice about fit, cleaning and follow-up
- Costs explained for the proposed route
What is a removable denture?
A removable denture is an appliance that replaces some or all missing teeth. A partial denture replaces selected teeth. A complete denture replaces every tooth in an upper or lower jaw. Mathenesse provides partial and complete removable dentures. Your examination and treatment plan determine the design.
When should you arrange an assessment?
Arrange an assessment when teeth are missing, chewing is difficult, or an existing denture is loose, damaged or painful. Changes in fit, pressure spots and uncertainty about replacement options also warrant examination. Symptoms do not determine the solution by themselves.
What does a denture assessment consider?
An assessment can consider remaining teeth, gums, oral tissues, jaw shape, an existing appliance, fit and stability. Your health information, needs and expectations also influence which broad options can be discussed. No fixed imaging, scanning or impression protocol applies to every patient.
Which options may be discussed?
Options for missing teeth include removable partial or complete dentures and, in some situations, other forms of tooth replacement. Suitability depends on what the dentist finds during the examination and patient priorities. The dentist explains which designs or referral options are currently available and relevant to you.
In some situations, a dental bridge for missing teeth may be considered as an alternative to a removable denture. Examination determines which options are clinically suitable for you.
How does denture care work at Mathenesse?
Care includes examination, discussion of preferences and costs, impressions and bite registration, trial fitting and placement with wearing and cleaning instructions. Your mouth and the selected denture type determine the details and number of appointments.
Adapting to a new or adjusted denture
After placement, we review the fit and your mouth. Pressure spots or fit problems can require adjustment.
Adaptation varies between patients. Fit, chewing, speaking, saliva and oral sensation can feel different at first, and pressure areas can occur. A denture cannot reproduce natural teeth exactly. Persistent soreness, poor fit or difficulty using the appliance requires professional assessment rather than an expectation that every problem will resolve by itself.
What if the denture is loose, painful or damaged?
Contact the practice when pain, pressure spots, looseness, cracks or other damage persists. Oral tissues and jaw shape can change, and the appliance can wear over time. An examination determines whether adjustment, repair, replacement or another recommendation is appropriate. Do not alter or repair the denture yourself.
Cleaning and maintaining a denture
Clean the denture daily and clean the mouth, gums and any remaining teeth. Handle the appliance carefully and follow individual professional instructions about products, storage and wearing. Persistent fit problems or damage need assessment; cleaning alone cannot correct a worn or unsuitable fit. Discuss dental hygiene care for your gums and any remaining teeth with the practice.
When is adjustment or replacement considered?
Age alone does not determine whether a denture needs replacement. The condition of the appliance, changes in the mouth, fit, stability, wear, damage and what the dentist finds during the examination determine whether adjustment, repair, replacement or another option should be considered.
What determines denture costs and insurance?
The appliance type, required clinical procedures, material and technical work, and any adjustments or repairs influence the total price. In the Netherlands, statutory maximum tariffs are established by the NZa. A treatment-specific estimate follows assessment.
For an explanation of estimates and invoices, see our dental tariffs and payment information.
Complete removable dentures
A conventional complete denture replaces all teeth in the upper or lower jaw and is covered by Dutch basic health insurance. From age 18, you pay a statutory personal contribution of 25% of the costs. Any remaining deductible may also apply to the insured portion.
Partial dentures and other designs
A partial denture, such as an acrylic plate or metal-framework denture, replaces some teeth. For adults, it is generally not covered by basic health insurance; supplementary dental insurance may provide reimbursement. Different rules apply to patients under 18 and special dental care. Implant-supported dentures have separate conditions and personal contributions.
Ask for a cost estimate beforehand and have your insurer confirm the reimbursement, personal contribution and any deductible that apply to your treatment.
Source: Zorginstituut Nederland: insured dental care (Dutch).