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Full or Partial Dentures

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), 3.75% of adults 20 to 64 in the United States are completely edentulous. For the overall population in this age group, the average number of remaining teeth is 24.92 out of a total of 32 permanent teeth.

One of the ways to replace missing teeth to restore oral function and appearance is with dentures. Depending upon the needs of a case, dentures can be used to replace either a few teeth that have been lost or all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaws. In addition to reestablishing the look of a complete and natural smile, dentures also restore support to the natural contours of the face to eliminate the “sunken” appearance that results from losing multiple teeth. Whether teeth have been lost for reasons of tooth decay, gum disease, a medical condition, congenital anomaly, or trauma, dentures are an effective method of care.

Dentures are removable appliances that are designed to precisely and comfortably rest on top of the gums that cover the jawbones. They can be taken out of the mouth for brief periods of time to fulfill the oral hygiene requirements of maintaining the underlying tissues, cleaning the dentures, and sleeping.

Types of Dentures

The two main types of dentures are: full dentures and partial dentures. Both types are custom fabricated based on the exact specifications obtained from dental impressions and detailed functional as well as esthetic information provided by the dentist.

Full Dentures

Full dentures, which can also be referred to as, “complete dentures,” are designed to replace all of the upper or lower teeth. A complete maxillary denture, more commonly known as a, full upper denture, typically consists of a base that covers the roof of the mouth with a full complement of artificial teeth set around the section covering the dental arch. On the other hand, a complete mandibular denture, or full lower denture, is designed to accommodate the tongue and is horseshoe shaped with teeth set along the portion that covers the underlying dental arch.

  • Conventional Full Denture - A conventional full denture is fabricated and placed after all of the remaining teeth have been removed and the tissue is healed. It takes several weeks for extraction sites to heal and for all of the surrounding bone and gum tissues to fill in and remodel. By allowing this process to reach completion before taking the final impressions for a new denture, the most precise and comfortable fitting prosthesis can be fabricated.
  • Immediate Denture - An immediate denture is one that is inserted on the day the remaining teeth are removed. With this method of care, a patient does not have to be without teeth while waiting for complete healing of the extraction sites. Immediate dentures offer the distinct cosmetic advantage of not having to be without teeth. However, since the healing of the extraction sites is occurring while wearing the denture, a reline or new denture may be required later for improved comfort and fit.
  • Overdenture - An overdenture is a type of complete denture that receives added stability and support from special attachments that are secured to the remaining underlying teeth or strategically placed dental implants.

Partial Dentures

A partial denture is a type of removable prosthesis that is designed to restore a complete and functional smile in cases where multiple teeth are missing or require extractions, while some healthy teeth remain in the dental arch. Custom fabricated for a precise fit and cosmetically pleasing appearance, partial dentures are typically secured and stabilized with clasps or precision attachments to select teeth adjacent to the edentulous areas. Depending upon the number of teeth being replaced as well as the functional and aesthetic requirements of the case, a partial denture can be fabricated from a combination of cast metal and acrylic materials, acrylic alone, or thermoplastic resins such as ValplastTM, Flexite®, Duroflex® and tcs®.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to replace missing teeth?

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Today, it’s easier than ever to replace missing teeth and achieve natural-looking, durable, and long-lasting results! Depending on a patient’s dental needs, lifestyle, expectations of care, and budget, choices can include conventional fixed bridgework, dental implants, or removable partial and complete dentures. At the office of DentMax, we’ll discuss all your options in care and answer all your questions as you choose the solution that’s right for you.

Do dentures provide natural-looking results?

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With advances in dental materials and technology, today’s dentures are more comfortable and realistic-looking than ever before.

Do I still have to see a dentist if I wear dentures?

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Whether you wear partial or complete dentures, it’s essential to see the dentist for routine care. Besides checking the fit and condition of your dentures and making any necessary adjustments, you’ll also receive a comprehensive exam to check on the health of any remaining teeth as well as the soft and hard tissues in and around the oral cavity.

What's a same-day denture?

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A same-day denture offers an accelerated design and fabrication process that allows a patient to go from impression taking to denture insertion in a single day.

What is the main benefit of an immediate denture?

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For patients who don’t want to wait after having teeth extracted, an immediate denture can be inserted the same day your teeth are removed. Sometime later you may need the denture relined to address any changes in its fit once the extraction sites have completely healed.

What if I break my denture?

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While no one wants to drop or break a partial or complete denture, accidents do happen. The good news is that in some cases, your partial or complete denture is reparable. It all depends on the extent of the damage. Don’t hesitate to contact our office if you’ve broken or damaged your denture. We’re happy to help.

What if the clasps on my partial have loosened?

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The simple act of taking your partial denture in and out can cause certain types of metal clasps to loosen over time. When you come in for your checkup visit or contact our office for an adjustment, we’ll assess the fit of your partial and tighten the clasps for improved stability and comfort.

How much do partial or complete dentures cost?

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While rebuilding a complete smile is a worthwhile investment, our office is sensitive to the costs involved in dental care. We customize care and will discuss which treatment options address your needs, lifestyle, and budget. How much a new denture will cost depends on the type of the prosthesis, its design, and the materials used to fabricate the supportive base, teeth, and clasps or precision attachments. Dentures that include the placement of dental implants for added retention and stability typically involve additional costs.

Does dental insurance cover the cost of dentures?

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If you have dental insurance, your coverage may include a new or replacement set of dentures.  Our staff is happy to review your coverage with you to ensure you are maximizing your insurance benefits while minimizing any out of pocket expenses.

Why choose the office of DentMax?

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At the office of DentMax, we provide an extensive range of dental services, including the latest and most effective methods to help patients with missing teeth rebuild complete and beautiful smiles. As skilled and experienced professionals, we recognize that every patient is different, and every smile is unique. We’re passionate about what we do and take great pride in providing personalized treatment plans while treating our patients as valued partners in care.

What are dentures and how do they work?

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Dentures are custom-made, removable appliances that replace missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. They consist of artificial teeth set into a supportive base that rests on the gums and distributes biting forces. Modern dentures are made with advanced materials and laboratory techniques to improve comfort and appearance.

Dentures restore the ability to chew and speak more clearly while supporting facial contours that change after tooth loss. Because they are removable, patients can clean the appliance and oral tissues separately, which helps maintain hygiene. Some dentures rely entirely on their fit to the gums, while others use attachments or implants to enhance stability.

What types of dentures are available?

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Full or complete dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw and are used when no natural teeth remain. Partial dentures fill the gaps when some natural teeth are still present and often use clasps or precision attachments for retention. Both designs can be customized for color, tooth shape, and base contours to achieve a natural appearance.

Immediate dentures are inserted at the same appointment as extractions so a patient does not go without teeth during healing. They provide an immediate cosmetic solution but typically require follow-up relines as the tissues remodel. Conventional dentures are made after tissues have healed to provide a more stable long-term fit.

Overdentures and implant-supported dentures connect to natural roots or dental implants to improve retention and chewing efficiency. Implant-supported options can help preserve surrounding bone by transferring forces to the jaw. Your clinician will discuss which options best match your oral health, anatomy, and lifestyle.

How do I know if I am a candidate for dentures?

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A candidacy evaluation begins with a comprehensive oral exam that reviews remaining teeth, gums, bone levels, and bite relationships. We also consider overall health factors and personal goals such as comfort, esthetics, and function. In some cases, preliminary procedures like extractions or minor ridge modification may be recommended to prepare the mouth.

If you are interested in enhanced stability, clinicians will assess whether dental implants are an appropriate adjunct to a denture. Bone quantity and quality, medical history, and patient preferences all influence whether implant attachments are advised. If implants are not suitable, high-quality conventional or overdenture designs can still deliver reliable results.

What is the process for getting a denture at DentMax?

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Treatment starts with a thorough consultation, diagnostic imaging, and impressions to document the jaw relationships and tissue contours. From these records the team designs a treatment plan and creates trial restorations to evaluate tooth position and esthetics. Try-ins allow adjustments before the final prosthesis is processed, which improves fit and patient satisfaction.

Once the final denture is delivered, the practice schedules follow-up visits to fine-tune fit and address any sore spots or function issues. Occasionally relines or minor adjustments are needed as the mouth adapts after insertion or as tissues change over time. Clear instructions on care, wear time, and eating will be provided so you can adapt more comfortably.

How should I care for my dentures day to day?

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Daily care includes gently brushing the denture with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleanser, rinsing after meals, and soaking overnight in water or a recommended solution. Avoid using hot water or abrasive household cleaners that can warp or damage the prosthesis. Continue to clean any remaining natural teeth and massage gums to support oral health.

Remove dentures at night to allow tissues to rest and reduce the risk of irritation or infection. If you use an adhesive, follow the product instructions and consult your clinician for guidance on appropriate use. Bring the denture to follow-up visits so the team can inspect it and perform professional maintenance when needed.

How long do dentures last and when will they need relining or replacement?

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The lifespan of a denture depends on material quality, oral changes, and how well it is maintained, but most prostheses eventually require relining, rebasing, or replacement. Over time, natural bone and gum tissues remodel, which can loosen the fit and affect function. Regular examinations help identify when adjustments are necessary to maintain comfort and chewing ability.

Relines refresh the tissue surface of the denture to improve fit, and replacements are advised when wear or structural changes compromise esthetics or function. If implant attachments are used, the denture may also require periodic maintenance of the connection components. The dental team will recommend an appropriate schedule for maintenance based on clinical findings.

Will dentures affect my speech and eating?

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New dentures often cause temporary changes in speech and eating as your tongue and muscles adapt to the appliance. It is normal to experience increased saliva, minor lisping, or difficulty with certain words for a short period. Practicing speaking aloud, reading, and starting with softer foods can speed the adjustment.

Eating should begin with small bites and foods that are easy to chew, using both sides of the mouth to stabilize the denture. As you gain confidence, you can gradually reintroduce firmer textures and a wider variety of foods. If persistent problems occur, adjustments to the denture's fit or occlusion can often resolve them.

What are the benefits of implant-supported dentures compared with conventional dentures?

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Implant-supported dentures use dental implants as anchors to increase retention and stability, reducing slipping and improving chewing efficiency. They transfer functional forces to the jawbone in a way that can help preserve bone over time compared with conventional, tissue-borne prostheses. Many patients find implant-retained options give them more confidence for speaking and eating.

Implant-supported designs range from removable overdentures that snap onto attachments to fixed prostheses that bolt on to implant bars. Decisions about implant number, placement, and prosthesis design depend on anatomy, health history, and the desired balance of maintenance and convenience. A thorough clinical and radiographic evaluation determines whether implant support is the most appropriate path.

What common problems should I expect with new dentures and how are they resolved?

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Sore spots, excessive movement, and initial changes in saliva are common during the first weeks of wear and typically resolve with minor adjustments. Clinicians can smooth high areas, adjust the bite, or recommend a short relining to improve comfort. Persistent irritation or signs of infection should be evaluated promptly to prevent complications.

Difficulty with retention may indicate the need for a reline, addition of a soft liner, or consideration of attachments or implants for enhanced stability. Fractures or worn teeth on the prosthesis can often be repaired in the laboratory if addressed early. Regular follow-up care helps catch and correct problems before they affect long-term success.

How often should I have dental exams after getting dentures?

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Routine dental exams are important even when you wear dentures, typically every six months or as recommended based on your oral health. These visits allow the clinician to check tissue health, assess fit, and screen for oral disease. Regular monitoring helps detect changes early and maintain a comfortable, functional prosthesis.

If you experience pain, persistent sores, difficulty with eating, or dramatic changes in fit, schedule an appointment promptly for evaluation. Follow-up visits after insertion are usually more frequent initially to manage adaptation and any necessary adjustments. Keeping scheduled exams ensures your dentures remain an effective part of your overall oral care plan.

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Get in Touch with DentMax Today

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Whether you have a question, need to schedule an appointment, or want to learn more about our services, our friendly team is ready to assist. Reach out today and we’ll help you find a time that works for you.