Dentures & Partials
Dentures are custom-made removable prosthetic teeth designed to replace missing teeth in the upper, lower, or both jaws and restore oral function. There are two main types of dentures: complete dentures, which replace all missing teeth, and partial dentures, which fill in gaps while preserving your remaining natural teeth.
Missing teeth can impact your confidence and make everyday activities like eating and speaking more challenging. At Hampden Ave Dental, we provide custom-made, durable dentures to restore the look, feel, and function of your natural teeth.
Our team thoroughly evaluates your dental needs to determine the best denture solution for you. We ensure a secure, comfortable fit so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Services
Why You Need Dentures
Missing teeth can cause oral health issues and impact your daily life.
- Difficulty Chewing & Swallowing: Proper chewing is essential for digestion, and missing teeth can make it harder to eat certain foods, potentially leading to poor nutrition and digestive issues.
- Shifting Teeth & Bite Problems: When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth may shift into the empty space, causing misalignment and bite issues that can lead to discomfort and dental complications.
- Bone Loss in the Jaw: Tooth roots stimulate the jawbone, keeping it strong. When teeth are missing, the bone no longer receives stimulation, leading to a weakened jaw and changes in facial structure.
- Increased Risk of Gum Disease: Food particles can get trapped in gaps from missing teeth, increasing the risk of gum infections and periodontal disease.
- Higher Risk of Tooth Decay: The remaining teeth may become more susceptible to decay and wear as they bear extra pressure and are exposed to more bacteria.
- Speech Difficulties: Teeth play a crucial role in forming certain sounds, so missing teeth can make speaking clearly more challenging.
- Facial Changes: Tooth loss can cause the cheeks to sink in and the jawline to sag, leading to an aged appearance.
- Reduced Confidence & Self-Esteem: Gaps in your smile can make you feel self-conscious, impacting your confidence in social and professional settings.
Dentures not only restore the function of missing teeth but also enhance your overall well-being by improving oral health, preserving your facial structure, and giving you the confidence to smile again.
Frequency of Dental Check-ups
We offer various denture options made from high-quality materials, such as acrylic, resin, nylon, metal, and porcelain, to create durable, natural-looking dentures. The best option for you depends on your specific dental condition and lifestyle needs.
Full Denture
Full dentures replace an entire arch of missing teeth, whether in the upper or lower jaw. They rest on your gums and rely on either the roof of your mouth (palate) or the lower jawbone ridge for support. In some cases, denture adhesive may be used to help keep them securely in place.
When most people think of dentures, they envision full dentures—a set of artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored base. These dentures are typically removed at night for cleaning and to give the gums a chance to rest.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are a great solution for patients who still have some healthy natural teeth. Unlike full dentures, which rely solely on the gums and jawbone for support, partial dentures include special clasps that attach to your natural teeth, providing enhanced stability and a secure fit.
A removable partial denture consists of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base, often reinforced by a metal framework to keep it securely in place. Another option is a precision partial denture. This design features internal attachments instead of visible clasps, which connect to crowns on adjacent teeth.
Immediate Dentures
For patients who need tooth extractions before getting dentures, immediate dentures provide a temporary solution. These dentures are placed immediately after the teeth are removed, so you won’t have to go without teeth during the healing process.
In many cases, immediate dentures serve as a short-term solution while your gums and jaw heal. Once healing is complete, they are replaced with a permanent set of dentures for a more precise and comfortable fit.
Implant-Retained Dentures
For a more secure and stable option, implant-retained dentures attach to dental implants rather than relying solely on your gums and jawbone for support. Like traditional dentures, implant-retained dentures are removable and should be taken out at night for cleaning. However, they offer superior stability because they "snap on" to the implants, eliminating the need for denture adhesive.
Implant-Supported Dentures
If you’re looking for a more stable and long-lasting solution, implant-supported dentures are an excellent choice. These dentures are anchored by dental implants, preventing slippage and providing a more natural feel when chewing and speaking.
Unlike implant-retained dentures, these dentures are not removable. They don’t snap in and out and require more thorough daily cleaning.
Dr. Kostas provides high-quality implant-supported dentures custom-crafted in his state-of-the-art dental lab. He ensures a secure, comfortable fit with a close resemblance to the look, feel, and function of natural teeth.
What to Expect During Your Denture Process
Getting fitted for dentures is a multi-step journey. However, you can trust our team to provide a stress-free and personalized experience. We will guide you through each phase with expert care.
Here’s what you can expect from this process.
- Consultation & Exam: We begin with a thorough examination of your mouth, assessing your gums, jaw structure, and any remaining teeth. Dental X-rays may also be taken to evaluate the thickness and health of your jawbone. If dentures are a suitable option for you, we will discuss the available choices based on factors such as:
- Number of teeth you’re missing
- Duration your teeth have been missing
- Whether you prefer a removable or fixed solution
- Strength and volume of your jawbone
- Alignment of your upper and lower jaws
- Personal preferences and lifestyle needs
- Impressions & Measurements: We take precise impressions of your mouth and measure your bite for a custom fit. This ensures your dentures feel comfortable and look natural.
- Crafting Your Custom Dentures: Once your dental impressions are taken, they are sent to a dental lab where skilled technicians craft your dentures using high-quality materials. Each denture is carefully designed to replicate the natural shape, color, and size of your teeth.
- Fitting & Adjustments: Once your dentures are ready, we schedule an appointment to place them in your mouth and make necessary adjustments so they fit well.
- Aftercare & Follow-Up: Adjusting to your new dentures may take a few weeks. We provide guidance on caring for them and schedule follow-ups to ensure long-term comfort.
Caring for Your Dentures
Proper denture care is essential to maintain their appearance, function, and longevity. We recommend you follow a consistent cleaning routine and handle your dentures with care to ensure they remain in top condition.
- Remove and rinse your dentures under running water to wash away food particles.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser to gently clean your dentures. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be too harsh.
- Most dentures need to remain moist to maintain their shape. Place them in water or a denture-soaking solution overnight.
- Hot water can warp dentures, so always use lukewarm water for rinsing and soaking.
- When cleaning your dentures, hold them over a folded towel or a water basin to prevent breakage if they slip.
- Clean your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth daily with a soft toothbrush or damp cloth.
- Visit your dentist regularly for routine checkups to ensure your dentures fit properly.
Schedule Your Consultation for Dentures & Partials in Lakewood, CO
At Hampden Ave Dental, we provide personalized solutions to restore your smile and confidence. Our team ensures that your dentures fit comfortably, function naturally, and enhance your overall oral health.
To schedule a consultation for dentures, please call us at 303-985-1263 or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dentures last?
Dentures typically last 7–10 years with proper care before needing replacement or adjustments.
Will my dentures look natural?
Yes! We design our dentures to resemble natural teeth in shape, color, and size for a seamless appearance.
Can I eat normally with dentures?
Absolutely. While there may be an adjustment period, most patients return to comfortably eating a variety of foods.
What if my dentures feel loose?
If your dentures no longer fit properly, schedule a visit with our provider. Over time, adjustments or relining may be necessary to maintain a secure and comfortable fit.
