Denture Services
There has truly never been a better time to get the smile you have always dreamed of than with dentures! Dentures are prosthetic teeth that are perfectly constructed to replace any missing teeth you may have. Dentures are supported by the surrounding soft and hard tissues of your mouth, allowing a comfortable fit. Gentle Family Dentistry is proud to be a top-of-the-line denture provider, as we truly believe that this service gives our patients a beautiful new start to there smile!
If you are interested in getting dentures or have questions about the process and what it entails, please give us a call today at one of our offices located in Augusta ME, Madison ME, or Winslow ME!
Let’s dive into the most common questions we get about dentures—and what you really need to know.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are custom-made prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. They restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile comfortably. Depending on your needs, dentures can replace all teeth (full dentures) or just a few (partial dentures). Dentures support facial muscles and structures, and decrease oral bone loss. Replacing missing teeth can significantly help improve your appearance, oral health and your speech.
Think of them as a personalized solution to bring back your smile—and the function that goes with it.
What’s The Difference Between Full And Partial Dentures?
Everyone that is missing teeth to a varying degree should wear a denture. Complete dentures are for people who are edentulous (i.e.. Have no natural teeth remaining) and partial dentures are for those who still have some natural teeth remaining. A partial denture is important to prevent the remaining natural teeth from shifting, which will occur if the empty spaces are not filled in. Dentures improve chewing and speech, as well as provide facial support which will dramatically improve your appearance and smile. In short:
- Full dentures replace all teeth in the upper, lower, or both arches of the mouth.
- Partial dentures fill in the gaps left by several missing teeth, anchoring to your natural ones for support.
We’ll help you determine the right type based on your oral health, remaining teeth, and long-term goals.
How Do Dentures Stay In Place?
Full dentures rely on suction, your natural gum shape, or adhesives to stay in place. Partial dentures use metal clasps or precision attachments that connect to your natural teeth.
For added stability, we also offer implant-supported dentures, which attach to dental implants placed in your jaw for a more secure fit.
Will Dentures Look Natural?
Absolutely. Modern dentures are a far cry from the bulky versions you might picture from decades past. Today’s materials and design techniques allow us to create dentures that match your facial structure, gum color, and natural tooth shade.
The result? A smile that looks like you, just healthier and more complete.
Are Dentures Comfortable?
It’s normal to go through a short adjustment period when you first start wearing dentures. You may notice minor soreness or changes in how you speak and chew, but these usually fade as your mouth adapts.
We’ll work closely with you to ensure a comfortable fit and make any needed adjustments along the way.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
Dentures generally last between 5 and 7 years. Just like natural teeth, dentures wear down and stained time goes by. Your mouth is also constantly changing. To make sure your dentures fit properly, they will need adjustments from time to time. We suggest coming in to see us yearly for a denture check-up. You should always notify your dentist at the first sign of irritation, no matter how minor it may seem, your health and comfort are important.
How Do I Clean My Dentures?
Keeping your dentures clean is essential for your oral health. Here's how:
- Remove and rinse after eating
- Brush daily with a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner
- Soak overnight in a denture solution to keep them moist and disinfected
- Rinse thoroughly before putting them back in
And don’t forget to brush your gums and tongue, too—it all contributes to a healthy mouth.
Can I Sleep In My Dentures?
Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended. Removing dentures at night gives your gums time to rest and promotes better oral hygiene. Most dentists, including us, advise taking them out overnight unless otherwise directed.
What Foods Can I Eat With Dentures?
You’ll want to start with soft foods while adjusting to your new dentures—think soups, eggs, or mashed vegetables. As you grow more comfortable, you can gradually reintroduce firmer foods.
Avoid sticky, hard, or extremely chewy foods until you’re confident in your bite. We’ll guide you through what’s best during your adjustment phase.
Will Dentures Affect My Speech?
At first, you may notice minor changes in how you pronounce certain words. This is totally normal. With a little practice—and maybe reading out loud or repeating tricky words—you’ll quickly adjust. Most patients regain normal speech within a few weeks.
Are Dentures Covered By Insurance?
Many dental insurance plans cover at least part of the cost of dentures. Our wonderful staff will work with you to see if your insurance company will cover the dentures. If for any reason it’s not covered, we will let you know and will work with you to develop a financial plan if needed. Our patients often tell us that it’s completely worth the investment of their time and money to repair their smile with dentures.
Ready To Explore Dentures? We’re Here To Help.
Whether you're missing a few teeth or need a full replacement, dentures can restore more than just your smile—they can give you back your confidence and comfort. At Gentle Family Dentistry, we’ll walk you through every step with care and clarity.
Call us today to schedule a denture consultation. The consultation is completely free of charge. We are limited in how many consultations we can schedule during any given period – so make sure to schedule yours as soon as possible. Let’s rebuild your smile together—comfortably, naturally, and confidently.
