Dentures & Partial Dentures
A denture is a removable dental appliance that replaces missing teeth and surrounding tissue. Dentures are made to closely resemble natural teeth—and may even enhance your smile.
There are two main types: complete dentures (when all teeth are missing) and partial dentures (when some natural teeth remain). A partial denture fills spaces and helps prevent remaining teeth from shifting.
Types of Dentures
Dentures are customized to your mouth, bite, and smile goals. The correct type depends on how many teeth are missing and the health of the remaining teeth and tissues.
Complete Dentures
Used when all teeth are missing in an arch (upper or lower).
Partial Dentures
Used when some natural teeth remain—fills gaps and helps prevent shifting.
Conventional Complete Dentures
Made after teeth are removed and gum tissue heals (typically about 4–6 weeks). During healing, you may be without teeth.
Immediate Dentures
Made in advance and placed immediately after teeth are removed—so you aren’t without teeth during healing. Adjustments are typically needed as tissues shrink and heal.
Reasons for Dentures
Dentures can restore function and aesthetics when teeth are missing.
- Complete denture: loss of all teeth in an arch.
- Partial denture: loss of several teeth in an arch.
- Enhancing smile and facial tissues: supports facial contours and appearance.
- Improving chewing, speech, and digestion: helps restore daily function.
What Does Getting Dentures Involve?
The process requires several appointments—usually over a period of weeks. Accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are used to create a custom denture designed for comfort and a natural look.
The Adjustment Period
It’s normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech or chewing difficulty at first. These changes usually subside as muscles and tissues adapt to your new dentures.
Care & Maintenance
You’ll be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits help maximize comfort and the lifespan of the appliance.
Daily cleaning
Keep your appliance clean and handle it carefully to maintain fit and comfort.
Regular visits
Routine checkups help monitor gum health and catch fit issues early—adjustments may be needed over time.
Dentures FAQs
What’s the difference between complete and partial dentures?
What’s the difference between immediate and conventional dentures?
Will dentures feel strange at first?
How long do dentures last?
Can dentures improve chewing and speech?
Credible Sources
• Cleveland Clinic – Dentures overview: my.clevelandclinic.org
We’ll walk you through options, timing, and the most comfortable fit for your needs.