Dentures & Partial Dentures

A denture is a removable dental appliance designed to replace missing teeth and the surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile.

There are two types of dentures - complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures are indicated when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are indicated when some natural teeth remain. A Partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.

A Complete denture is made after the teeth have been extracted and the gum tissue has healed, usually after 4 to 6 weeks. During this time the patient will go without teeth, unless an Immediate denture is treatment planned. Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are extracted, eliminating the patient from being without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments may have to be made.

Both dentures and partial dentures will enhance your smile and facial tissues. They will also improve chewing, speech, and digestion. Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.

Denture Treatment:

The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over several weeks. Highly accurate impressions and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture. Several try-in appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit. At the final appointment, your denture will be precisely adjusted and delivered, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.

It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty. This will usually subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.

You will be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.

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