A denture is a removable dental appliance for replacing missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile and supporting facial structures.

There are two types of dentures - complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting, tilting or moving. A complete denture may be either "conventional" or "immediate." A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking 4 to 6 weeks. During this time the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and are placed immediately after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments and relines will have to be made. Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but may have to be remade, repaired or readjusted due to normal wear.

There are many reasons for dentures such as loss of all teeth in an arch, loss of several teeth in an arch, enhancing smile and facial tissues, improve chewing, speech, and digestion.

The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over several weeks. Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture. Several "try-in" appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit. Patients have an opportunity to approve the final set-up/appearance of their final denture. At the last appointment, your completed denture will be precisely adjusted and placed ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.

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. Dentures are excellent appliances, but nothing can exactly duplicate or replace the feel and function of your natural teeth.

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 prolong the life of your supporting tissues, teeth, and the life of your new dentures.