Modern materials, improved lab techniques, and advances in clinical protocols mean replacing missing teeth looks and feels more natural than ever. While long-term, fixed options like dental implants and bridges are excellent solutions for many patients, removable dentures remain a reliable, time-tested choice for restoring a complete smile and daily function.
At the office of Cherokee Smiles Dental, we design dentures using high-quality materials and careful attention to fit, form, and function. Our prostheses are intended not only to recreate teeth visually but also to support facial structure, speech, and chewing comfort so patients can participate in life with confidence.
We take a thoughtful, patient-centered approach to every denture case, tailoring design and follow-up care to each patient’s oral health, lifestyle, and goals so the final result is both practical and personally satisfying.
Tooth loss is common across adulthood and can arise from decay, advanced gum disease, trauma, or medical conditions. Losing one or more teeth affects more than appearance: it alters how the jaw functions, can make chewing difficult, and often changes the way the lips and cheeks are supported.
Unreplaced gaps allow neighboring teeth to shift, which can lead to bite problems and places more stress on remaining teeth. Over time the jawbone in areas without teeth begins to resorb, changing facial contours and sometimes making the lower third of the face appear shorter or sunken.
Addressing tooth loss sooner rather than later helps preserve oral function and facial aesthetics. Removable dentures — whether partial or complete — are a practical way to replace missing teeth, restore proper chewing and speech, and provide support that preserves the appearance of the face.
Removable dentures are prosthetic appliances that rest on the gums and replace missing teeth with lifelike artificial teeth set into a supportive base. Contemporary denture bases and teeth are crafted to mimic the translucency, color, and contour of natural teeth while providing a secure, comfortable fit.
One practical advantage of removable designs is ease of hygiene: prostheses can be taken out for cleaning, allowing patients to maintain healthy gum tissue and any remaining natural teeth directly. Being removable also makes adjustments, relines, and repairs simpler than with many fixed restorations.
Although removable dentures are often thought of as a single solution, today’s restorative dentistry offers many variations — from lightweight, flexible partials to implant-assisted overdentures —so that a removable option can be tailored to fit different clinical situations and patient preferences.
Selecting an appropriate denture depends on how many teeth remain, the health of the supporting tissues, and the patient’s functional and aesthetic priorities. A careful clinical exam, including dental imaging when needed, guides the decision so the final prosthesis meets both comfort and durability goals.
Partial dentures are designed to fill gaps when some healthy teeth remain. They help stabilize the bite, prevent unwanted tooth movement, and restore chewing on the affected side. Modern partial frameworks may use discreet clasps, precision attachments, or flexible resin materials to blend function with a pleasing appearance.
Complete, or full, dentures replace all teeth in an arch and rely on carefully adapted tissue contact, border seal, and precise tooth setup to provide retention and stability. When jaw anatomy or tissue changes make fit more challenging, options such as implant support or overdenture attachments can greatly improve comfort and confidence with a full denture.
Complete dentures rebuild a whole upper or lower arch when natural teeth are absent or unsalvageable. Their design considers lip support, tooth position, phonetics, and chewing efficiency to create a balanced, natural-looking smile.
Conventional complete dentures are made after extraction sites heal and tissues stabilize, which can yield a more exact fit. Immediate dentures are inserted on the same day as extractions so a patient does not go without teeth during healing; however, they may need adjustments or a future conventional replacement as tissues remodel.
Overdentures
Overdentures sit over remaining tooth roots or specially placed implant abutments to gain retention and preserve bone. This approach combines some of the convenience of a removable prosthesis with enhanced stability.
Implant-assisted dentures
Implant-assisted or implant-retained dentures attach to surgically placed implants and offer a marked improvement in chewing efficiency and retention compared with conventional suction or adhesive-based retention.
Partial dentures vary from metal-based frameworks to flexible resin designs. Each material and attachment style has trade-offs in terms of bulk, strength, esthetics, and ease of modification. We discuss these options so patients can choose a design that aligns with their priorities.
Regardless of the framework, a well-designed partial helps distribute biting forces evenly, protects remaining teeth from excessive movement, and restores a balanced smile that’s easier to care for long-term.
At the office of Cherokee Smiles Dental, we evaluate the condition of remaining teeth and tissues and recommend the style of partial or complete denture that best supports lasting oral health and daily function.
Crafting a denture that looks natural and performs well is both a technical and artistic process. We begin with a thorough review of your medical and dental history, oral examination, and diagnostic records so the prosthesis is built on a foundation of good health and accurate measurements.
Impressions, bite registrations, and careful tooth selection are followed by laboratory fabrication and clinical try-ins. These appointments let us evaluate esthetics, phonetics, and occlusion, and provide opportunities to refine tooth position, shape, and color until the result meets both functional and visual expectations.
When needed, adjunctive procedures such as minor soft-tissue contouring, extractions, or implant placement are coordinated to optimize fit and support. Our goal is a comfortable denture that integrates smoothly into daily life and can be maintained with routine care.
We emphasize clear communication throughout the process so patients understand each step and know what to expect from initial impressions to final delivery and follow-up adjustments.
Adjusting to a new denture takes time and patience. In the first days or weeks you may notice increased saliva, minor speech differences, and sensitivity as muscles and soft tissues learn new positions. Gradual practice with reading aloud and starting meals with softer foods helps speed adaptation.
Proper daily care preserves both the denture and oral tissues: rinse and brush the prosthesis after meals, soak it nightly in recommended cleaner when not in use, and maintain meticulous oral hygiene for any remaining teeth and gums. Removing dentures at night allows tissues to rest and reduces the risk of irritation.
Follow-up visits are an important part of long-term success. We check fit, address sore spots, and perform relines when tissue changes make an adjustment necessary. If stability is a concern, we can discuss options such as implant support or improved attachment systems to enhance retention.
With appropriate design, patient education, and periodic care, a denture can reliably restore appearance and function and give patients a comfortable, confident everyday experience.
If you’d like to learn more about denture options or discuss which approach might suit your needs, please contact us for additional information and to schedule a consultation.
Today, it’s easier than ever to replace missing teeth and achieve natural-looking, durable, and long-lasting results! Depending on a patient’s dental needs, lifestyle, expectations of care, and budget, choices can include conventional fixed bridgework, dental implants, or removable partial and complete dentures. At the office of Cherokee Smiles Dental, we’ll discuss all your options in care and answer all your questions as you choose the solution that’s right for you.
With advances in dental materials and technology, today’s dentures are more comfortable and realistic-looking than ever before.
Whether you wear partial or complete dentures, it’s essential to see the dentist for routine care. Besides checking the fit and condition of your dentures and making any necessary adjustments, you’ll also receive a comprehensive exam to check on the health of any remaining teeth as well as the soft and hard tissues in and around the oral cavity.
A same-day denture offers an accelerated design and fabrication process that allows a patient to go from impression taking to denture insertion in a single day.
For patients who don’t want to wait after having teeth extracted, an immediate denture can be inserted the same day your teeth are removed. Sometime later you may need the denture relined to address any changes in its fit once the extraction sites have completely healed.
While no one wants to drop or break a partial or complete denture, accidents do happen. The good news is that in some cases, your partial or complete denture is reparable. It all depends on the extent of the damage. Don’t hesitate to contact our office if you’ve broken or damaged your denture. We’re happy to help.
The simple act of taking your partial denture in and out can cause certain types of metal clasps to loosen over time. When you come in for your checkup visit or contact our office for an adjustment, we’ll assess the fit of your partial and tighten the clasps for improved stability and comfort.
While rebuilding a complete smile is a worthwhile investment, our office is sensitive to the costs involved in dental care. We customize care and will discuss which treatment options address your needs, lifestyle, and budget. How much a new denture will cost depends on the type of the prosthesis, its design, and the materials used to fabricate the supportive base, teeth, and clasps or precision attachments. Dentures that include the placement of dental implants for added retention and stability typically involve additional costs.
If you have dental insurance, your coverage may include a new or replacement set of dentures. Our staff is happy to review your coverage with you to ensure you are maximizing your insurance benefits while minimizing any out of pocket expenses.
At the office of Cherokee Smiles Dental, we provide an extensive range of dental services, including the latest and most effective methods to help patients with missing teeth rebuild complete and beautiful smiles. As skilled and experienced professionals, we recognize that every patient is different, and every smile is unique. We’re passionate about what we do and take great pride in providing personalized treatment plans while treating our patients as valued partners in care.
Modern removable restorations include partial dentures, complete dentures, immediate dentures, and implant-assisted or overdenture designs. Partial dentures replace one or several missing teeth while preserving healthy natural teeth, and they may use metal frameworks, flexible resins, or precision attachments for retention. Complete dentures restore an entire upper or lower arch and rely on tissue contact, border seal, and careful tooth setup to provide function and esthetics.
Implant-assisted dentures and overdentures add greater retention and chewing efficiency by attaching to dental implants or remaining tooth roots, which also helps preserve bone. Immediate dentures are placed the same day teeth are removed so a patient does not go without teeth, but they typically require adjustments or a later conventional replacement as tissues heal. Choosing the right option depends on oral health, jaw anatomy, functional needs, and personal preferences, and the practice will review these factors during your evaluation.
Designing a denture begins with a thorough review of medical and dental history, clinical examination, and diagnostic records such as X-rays and intraoral photos when needed. Precise impressions, bite registrations, and tooth selection guide laboratory fabrication so the prosthesis fits, functions, and looks natural. Laboratory steps include model work, wax try-ins, and final processing to create lifelike teeth and a supportive base.
Clinical try-in appointments let clinicians evaluate esthetics, phonetics, and occlusion and provide opportunities to refine tooth position, shape, and shade before final delivery. When indicated, adjunctive procedures such as minor soft-tissue contouring or implant placement are coordinated to optimize fit and long-term comfort. Clear communication throughout the process ensures patients understand each step from initial impressions to final insertion and follow-up care.
Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain and are designed to fill gaps, stabilize the bite, and prevent unwanted movement of neighboring teeth. They distribute biting forces and protect remaining teeth from excessive stress while restoring chewing on the affected side. Materials range from metal frameworks with clasps to flexible resin designs or precision attachment systems, each with trade-offs in strength, bulk, and esthetics.
Complete dentures replace all teeth in an arch when natural teeth are absent or unsalvageable, relying on adapted tissue contact and border seal for retention and stability. Complete denture designs consider lip support, tooth position, phonetics, and chewing efficiency to recreate a balanced smile. If fit or stability is a concern, options such as implant support or improved attachment systems can be discussed to enhance function and confidence.
Immediate dentures are fabricated in advance and inserted on the same day as tooth extractions so the patient avoids a period without teeth. Because tissues remodel and swelling resolves after extractions, immediate dentures frequently require adjustments and may not fit as precisely as conventional dentures made after healing. They can be a good transitional solution for patients who want immediate esthetic replacement but should be considered with the expectation of future refinement.
Conventional dentures are created once extraction sites have healed and tissues have stabilized, which often yields a more exact long-term fit. Patients who receive conventional dentures typically experience fewer early relines and adjustments related to post-extraction tissue changes. Your clinician will discuss the advantages and limitations of each approach and recommend the sequence that best suits your oral health and treatment goals.
Implant-assisted dentures and overdentures use dental implants or retained tooth roots to improve retention, stability, and chewing efficiency compared with conventional suction- or adhesive-reliant dentures. By anchoring the prosthesis, implants reduce movement, help protect remaining oral tissues, and often restore more natural function for eating and speaking. Implant support also slows bone loss in the jaw by transmitting functional forces to the underlying bone.
These solutions can be designed to be removable for daily cleaning or more fixed depending on the clinical plan, and they are adaptable to many situations. Implant planning requires a careful clinical and radiographic evaluation to confirm bone volume and overall health. When appropriate, implant-assisted options often offer a marked improvement in comfort and confidence for denture wearers.
Daily cleaning preserves the appearance of the prosthesis and helps maintain oral health for remaining teeth and soft tissues: rinse and brush the denture after meals, and soak it nightly in a recommended cleaner when not in use. Brush gently with a soft brush and nonabrasive cleanser to remove food debris and plaque without damaging the denture surface. Removing dentures at night gives gum tissues time to rest and reduces the risk of irritation.
Maintain meticulous hygiene for any remaining natural teeth and schedule regular dental checkups so your clinician can inspect the fit and tissue health. Follow-up visits let the team address sore spots, perform adjustments, and perform relines when tissue changes affect fit. Proper daily care combined with routine professional oversight helps dentures last longer and supports overall oral health.
Adapting to new dentures typically takes several weeks as muscles and soft tissues learn new positions; early changes may include increased saliva production, minor speech differences, and sensitivity. Most patients find that practicing reading aloud, repeating challenging words, and starting meals with softer foods speeds adaptation. Gradual progression to firmer foods and chewing on both sides helps reestablish comfortable function.
If sore spots or persistent fit problems occur, return visits for adjustment are important because small refinements often resolve discomfort quickly. Over time, as tissues settle and habits form, many patients regain comfortable speech and efficient chewing. Your dental team will provide practical tips and monitor your progress to ensure a smooth transition to daily use.
Changes in the jawbone and oral tissues over time can alter denture fit, so signs such as looseness, persistent sore areas, difficulty chewing, or changes in facial support indicate a need for evaluation. Relining restores a more intimate fit by adding material to the tissue surface, which is often appropriate when tissues have changed but the denture is otherwise sound. Rebasing replaces the denture base while keeping the existing tooth setup and may be chosen when the base is worn but tooth arrangement remains acceptable.
Replacement is recommended when the denture shows extensive wear, structural damage, or when esthetic or functional goals have changed beyond what relines or rebases can correct. Regular dental examinations help identify the best timing for relines or replacement so the prosthesis continues to support oral function and comfort. Discuss any changes with your clinician to determine the most appropriate course of action.
Follow-up visits typically focus on assessing fit, checking for sore spots, confirming proper bite relationships, and making necessary adjustments to improve comfort and function. The clinician may perform minor border modifications, selective grinding of occlusal surfaces, or relines to optimize tissue contact and stability. These appointments are also opportunities to review daily cleaning routines and oral hygiene for any remaining teeth.
Scheduling periodic maintenance checks is important because ongoing bone and tissue changes can affect how a denture fits over months and years. Your dentist will recommend an appropriate follow-up schedule and explain when more extensive maintenance, such as relining or replacement, might be necessary. Open communication about comfort and function helps ensure long-term success with your prosthesis.
Yes, partial dentures are specifically designed to work with remaining teeth and can help stabilize the bite while filling gaps, but the condition of those teeth and supporting tissues must be evaluated first. Active gum disease or untreated decay should be addressed before fabricating a prosthesis so the long-term prognosis of remaining teeth is optimized. In some cases, extractions or periodontal therapy are necessary steps before a final denture is made.
When appropriate, overdentures that use retained roots or implants as anchors can preserve bone and improve stability while maintaining some natural structure. Treatment planning is individualized, and the dental team will explain the sequence of care, necessary preparatory procedures, and the denture designs that best support lasting oral health and daily function.
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