We can make replacements for complete (full) and partial dentures which are aging, damaged and unable to be repaired, or for any reason you may wish to have a new denture.  If you have teeth to be extracted, a temporary denture, either complete or partial, can be made. A temporary denture would be placed as soon as the remaining teeth are extracted to prevent the patient from having to be without teeth.  Once the tissues and bone shrink and heal, which can take sometime between 4 and 6 months, a final complete or partial denture can be made for the best possible fit.  Adjustments will need to be made after any type of denture is placed.  Another type of denture is called an immediate denture.  An immediate denture is also placed when teeth are extracted.  In this situation, a temporary denture is not made and the immediate denture will need to have a hard reline once the healing process is complete.  The advantage to having a temporary denture is that the patient will be able to use the temporary denture as a spare in case a the final denture is damaged and cannot be worn until it is repaired.

Reasons for dentures:

• Complete (full) Denture - Loss of all teeth in an arch.
• Partial Denture - Loss of several teeth in an arch.
• Enhancing smile and facial tissues.
• Improving chewing, speech, and digestion.

What does getting dentures involve?

The process of getting dentures of any kind requires five appointments, usually over a period of six weeks.  Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture.  These impressions are sent to a dental lab and a model of your denture is made and returned to us.  We then schedule a "try-in” appointment to ensure the proper shape, color, and fit.  The denture is returned to the lab to be finished.  At the final appointment, any extractions will be done, and your completed denture will be precisely adjusted and placed, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.  Follow up appointments will be scheduled as needed.  Patients experiencing any sore spots are encouraged to call as soon as possible and we strive to provide a same day appointment.

It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.

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

Denture relines

A denture reline may be needed to improve the fit and comfort of your denture as it ages.  Over time, your denture may begin to fit less comfortably.  Relines can either be "soft" or "hard."  If you are adjusting to a temporary denture after having teeth extracted, the normal healing process involves changes in the bone and tissue which cause them to shrink.  A soft reline is done to make the denture fit better as this healing process occurs.  Material is added to the inside of the denture to add depth and cushioning.  This will help to keep your denture fit as well as it can until a final denture is made.  A hard reline is done in a similar manner where material is added to your older, final denture but a different type of material is used. A hard reline is a more long term "fix."  If you have had an immediate denture placed, a hard reline would also need to be done.   A hard reline is usually able to be done in the office, but sometimes it is advisable to have the denture sent to the dental lab to be done there.