Complete dentures are removable dental appliances that replace all the natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They restore both function and appearance, helping patients eat, speak, and smile confidently again.

You may need full dentures if:

• You have lost all teeth in an arch due to decay, gum disease, trauma, or age
• Your remaining teeth are unsalvageable and need to be extracted
• You want to restore your ability to chew, speak, and smile properly

• Complete dentures replace all teeth in a jaw
• Partial dentures replace some missing teeth and are supported by remaining natural teeth

Your dentist will recommend the best option based on your specific needs.

Immediate dentures are placed immediately after tooth extraction, so you never go without teeth. However, they may require more adjustments as your gums heal and shrink.

The process typically involves:

1. Initial exam and tooth extractions (if needed)
2. Impressions of your gums and jaw
3. Bite registration and tooth shade selection
4. Try-in of a wax model
5. Final denture fabrication and fitting

The entire process may take 4–6 weeks or more, depending on healing and customization.

Yes! Today’s dentures are made using high-quality materials designed to mimic natural teeth and gums. Your dentist will personalize the size, color, and shape to suit your facial structure and preferences.

There is an adjustment period, but most people adapt within a few weeks. You may need to:

• Start with soft foods and cut food into smaller pieces
• Practice speaking slowly to adjust to changes in pronunciation

Over time, chewing and speaking feel natural again.

• Remove and rinse dentures after eating
• Clean them daily with a soft brush and denture cleaner (not toothpaste)
• Soak them overnight in a denture solution
• Brush your gums and tongue daily to keep your mouth healthy
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and adjustments

It’s recommended to remove dentures at night to let your gums rest and to reduce the risk of infection or bone loss. Always follow your dentist’s specific instructions.

Yes. As your gums and jawbone change shape over time, your dentures may loosen. Regular dental visits allow your dentist to:

• Reline or rebase dentures for a better fit
• Replace them if they become worn or damaged (typically every 5–7 years)

At first, there may be mild soreness or irritation as your mouth adjusts. This is normal and temporary. If discomfort persists, your dentist can make adjustments for a better fit.

Don’t try to fix them yourself. Loose or ill-fitting dentures can lead to mouth sores, infections, or trouble eating and speaking. Contact your dentist for a professional adjustment.

Implant-supported dentures offer more stability, comfort, and bone preservation compared to traditional removable dentures. They snap onto dental implants placed in the jawbone. However, they are more expensive and require surgery.

With proper care, dentures typically last 5 to 7 years before needing replacement if no extractions are needed. Regular maintenance and good oral hygiene help extend their lifespan.

Minor chips/ breaks can be a simple fix which can be taken care of within a day or two. While not very common, extensive damage may require full denture replacement. Please call our office at (919) 581-9300 for the best course of action.