Dentures/Partial Dentures

Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues.  They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and ​restore your function.

There are two types of dentures – complete and partial.  Complete dentures can be used when all of the top or bottom teeth are missing.  Partial dentures can be used when only some of the teeth are missing.  A Partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.

A Complete denture may be either “conventional” or “immediate.”  A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking four to six weeks.  Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process.  

Dentures are very durable and will last many years but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear, or as the oral structures change through time.

Additional benefits of dentures:

• Enhancing smile and facial tissues.
• Improving chewing, speech, and digestion.

What does getting dentures involve?
The process of getting dentures requires multiple appointments, usually over several weeks.  Impressions and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture.  Several appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit.  At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture.

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