Dentures

Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They’re custom-made to fit your mouth and can replace some teeth (partial dentures) or all your teeth (complete dentures). Modern dentures look very natural and help restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently. Dr. Fenton creates dentures that are comfortable and designed to look like your natural teeth.

Partial dentures replace some missing teeth when you still have healthy natural teeth remaining. They have clasps or attachments that secure to your existing teeth. Complete dentures replace all teeth in your upper or lower jaw (or both) when no natural teeth remain. Both types are removable and custom-made to fit your mouth properly.

Getting used to new dentures takes time, and some initial discomfort is normal. You might experience sore spots, increased saliva, or difficulty speaking and eating for the first few weeks. Dr. Fenton will make adjustments during follow-up visits to improve comfort and fit. Most patients adapt well within a month and find their dentures comfortable for daily use.

The complete denture process typically takes 4-6 weeks and requires several appointments. We start by taking impressions of your mouth, then create a custom fit through multiple try-in appointments. This ensures your dentures fit properly and look natural. If you need teeth extracted first, we usually wait 6-8 weeks for healing before starting the denture process.

Remove and rinse your dentures after eating, then brush them daily with a soft denture brush and denture cleaner. Don’t use regular toothpaste, which can scratch dentures. Soak them overnight in denture cleaning solution to keep them moist and clean. Handle them carefully over a towel or sink filled with water to prevent breaking if you drop them.

You’ll be able to eat most foods with dentures, though it may take practice initially. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces and chew slowly using both sides of your mouth. Avoid very hard, sticky, or tough foods that might dislodge your dentures. As you get comfortable, you can gradually return to eating most of your favorite foods.

Complete dentures typically cost $1,500-$4,000 per arch, while partial dentures range from $700-$2,500. The cost depends on the materials used and complexity of your case. While dentures represent a significant investment, they restore your ability to eat and smile confidently. We offer financing options to help make treatment more manageable for your budget.

Most dental insurance plans provide good coverage for dentures, typically 50-80% of the cost. Since dentures are considered a necessary treatment for replacing missing teeth, coverage is usually substantial. Some plans have waiting periods for major services like dentures. We’ll verify your specific benefits and help you understand your coverage before starting treatment.