This article helps carers know the different types of dentures (false teeth).

Always handle dentures carefully. They can break if dropped.

Full or partial

• Full denture: replaces all the teeth.
• Partial denture: replaces some teeth. It often has metal clips that hold onto real teeth. These are harder to take out and need extra cleaning. The clips can be sharp, so wear gloves.

Top or bottom

• Top (upper): a full top denture covers the roof of the mouth.
• Bottom (lower): a full bottom denture is shaped like a horseshoe to leave room for the tongue.
• Partial dentures can look alike. The person usually knows which goes where.

Plastic or metal

Dentures can be plastic (acrylic) or metal (chrome). They look different.

Cleaning partial dentures

Clean the clips and every part that touches the real teeth. Plaque left on the denture can cause decay on the real teeth.