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Dentures

A custom-fitted solution for replacing multiple missing teeth that restores the function and appearance of your smile and helps you eat, speak, and live with confidence again.

What Is a Denture?

A denture is a removable dental appliance custom-made to replace multiple missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissue. Dentures are designed to closely resemble your natural teeth and are fitted specifically to the shape of your mouth for a comfortable, secure fit. Whether you are missing all of your teeth or just several, there is a denture option that can restore both the look and function of your smile.

Modern dentures are more natural looking and comfortable than ever before. Advances in dental materials and fitting techniques mean that today's dentures are designed to feel secure and look like a seamless part of your smile.

Your provider will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and recommend the type of denture that best fits your specific needs and lifestyle.

Here is what most patients can expect from the process at a glance:

5-6
Appointments to complete a denture
5-10
Years average lifespan with proper care and maintenance

Types of Dentures

The type of denture recommended depends on how many teeth you are missing, the condition of your remaining teeth and gums, and what your provider determines will offer the most comfortable and functional result.
 
 

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, either the upper jaw, the lower jaw, or both. They rest directly on the gum tissue and are custom-fitted to the shape of your mouth for a secure and natural looking result. Complete dentures are recommended when all of the teeth in an arch have been lost or need to be removed, and they are designed to restore full chewing function and facial appearance.

Complete dentures

When Are Dentures Recommended?

 
Your provider may recommend dentures if you are experiencing any of the following:
 
 

Significant tooth loss

Dentures are a reliable solution for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth in one or both arches and are looking for a way to restore full function and appearance.

 

Multiple failing or damaged teeth

When several teeth are too damaged or decayed to save, dentures may be recommended as part of a treatment plan that includes extraction and full arch restoration.

 

Difficulty eating or speaking

Missing teeth can significantly affect your ability to chew food properly and speak clearly. Dentures restore the structure needed to eat a full diet and communicate with confidence.

 

Bone or gum tissue loss

Patients who have experienced bone or gum tissue loss due to tooth loss or gum disease may benefit from dentures, which are designed to support the surrounding soft tissue.

What To Expect

A step-by-step look at the denture process at Smart Dental Network.  
Denture showing to patient aftercare
1

Consultation and evaluation

Your provider will examine your mouth, assess the condition of your remaining teeth and gum tissue, and discuss which type of denture is the right fit for your situation. 

2

Impressions and fitting

Detailed impressions of your mouth are taken to custom-fit your dentures to the shape of your gums and jaw. Your provider will work with you to select the right tooth shape, size, and shade to achieve a natural looking result.

3

Placement and adjustment

Once your dentures are ready your provider will place them and check the fit, bite, and comfort. Minor adjustments are common in the first weeks as your mouth adjusts to the new appliance. Your provider will schedule follow-up visits to make sure everything feels right.

Recovery & Aftercare

Most patients adjust to their new dentures within a few weeks. Here is what to keep in mind during that process.

Immediately after

Initial sensitivity

It is normal to experience some soreness, increased saliva flow, and minor difficulty eating or speaking as your mouth adjusts to the new appliance. 

First few days

Adjusting to fit

Your mouth will gradually adapt to the fit and feel of the dentures. Minor irritation or pressure points are common and your provider can make simple adjustments at a follow-up visit to improve comfort. Contact your provider if soreness persists or worsens.

Long-Term

Ongoing care

 Remove and clean your dentures daily using a soft brush and denture cleaner. Avoid soaking them in hot water as this can warp the material. Visit your provider regularly so they can check the fit as your gum tissue changes over time.

Other Restorative Treatments

Explore the full range of restorative services available across Smart Dental Network locations.
 
 

Crowns

Custom-fitted caps placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance for long-lasting protection.

Learn more →

Composite Restorations

Tooth-colored fillings that repair cavities and minor damage while blending seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Learn more →

Dental Bridges

A fixed restoration that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the surrounding natural teeth on either side.

Learn more →

Implants

A permanent solution for missing teeth that replaces both the root and the visible crown for a result that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

Learn more →

Related Resources

 
From our resource center, helpful reading to support you before or after your denture fitting process.
 
  

Have a Concern You'd Like Evaluated?

 
Find the care you need at an Smart Dental Network location near you.