Full dentures, partials, and which one applies
A full denture replaces all the teeth in an arch. A partial clips around the teeth you still have and fills the gaps between them, which also stops the remaining teeth drifting into the space.
Modern dentures are a long way from what most people picture. They are made from a scan or an impression of your own mouth, and the shade and shape are matched rather than generic.
Dentures are not the only option for missing teeth, and we will say so. Implants are fixed rather than removable and hold bone better, but they cost more and take longer. Which is right depends on your mouth, your health and your budget.
A denture or partial may be the answer if
- Several teeth are missing or failing
- An existing denture no longer fits
- A denture has cracked or broken
- Remaining teeth are drifting into gaps
- Eating has become difficult
- Implants are not realistic for medical or budget reasons
How a denture is made
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Examination and records
We look at what is left, the gum tissue underneath, and how your bite works.
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Impressions or a scan
To build something that fits your mouth rather than an average one.
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A try-in
You see and check the fit and the look before it is finished, while it can still be changed.
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Fitting
The finished denture is placed and adjusted.
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Adjustments afterwards
New dentures almost always need small adjustments in the first weeks. That is normal and it is part of the process, not a fault.
Who you will see
Dr. Shayan Azimi looks after dentures & partials at our Bishop Arts practice. You see the same dentist at every visit, so nobody starts your treatment over.
What it costs, and how people pay
Price depends on what you actually need, so we look first and tell you the number before anything starts. What we can tell you now is how it gets paid for.
- Insured. In network with most major PPO plans, and your benefits get checked before treatment is planned.
- Medicaid or CHIP. Both accepted, which a lot of Dallas practices will not do.
- No insurance. Our membership plan covers cleanings, exams and routine x-rays from $30 a month, with 20% off other treatment.
- Larger treatment. Cherry, Sunbit and HFD payment plans spread the cost.
Dentures & Partials questions
- How long does it take to get dentures?
- Several appointments across a number of weeks, because impressions, try-in and fitting each need their own visit and the laboratory work happens in between. You get a schedule at the first appointment.
- Will dentures change how I talk and eat?
- At first, yes. Most people adapt over a few weeks. Starting with softer food and reading out loud are the two things that speed it up most.
- Can you repair a broken denture?
- Bring in all the pieces and we will look at it. Do not try to glue it yourself, because household adhesives are not safe in the mouth and often make a proper repair impossible.
- Dentures or implants, which should I get?
- It depends on bone, gum health, general health and budget. Implants are fixed and preserve bone better. Dentures cost less and can be made faster. We will tell you honestly which is realistic for you rather than pushing the more expensive option.