Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. They can either be full, meaning they consist of replacement teeth for all your natural teeth, or partial, replacing only a few missing teeth. Dentures make it easier for patients to eat, speak, and live their lives.
Dentures can fill out the appearance of your face and profile, and are made to closely resemble your natural teeth.
Dentures may feel awkward in the mouth in the beginning, but in no time, you’ll grow used to them. As your facial muscles learn how to keep them in place, they may feel a bit loose, and you could experience some areas of minor irritation or discomfort. While your mouth is getting used to the dentures, you may also notice an increase in the flow of saliva. These problems will recede as your mouth gets used to having the dentures in place.
Once you receive your dentures, you will need to schedule follow-up appointments so the dentist can make sure the dentures are fitted properly and make any adjustments as needed.
SmileCare Dental also provides denture replacement and repair services in Fitchburg and surrounding areas, including Leominster (minutes away from our office), Lunenburg, Townsend, and Ayer, MA.
Types of Dentures
What are the different types of dentures?
Full Dentures
Complete, or full, dentures replace all the teeth and rest on top of the gums. We can create more stability when we use these dentures in conjunction with dental implants, which are small screws that are implanted into the gums
Partial Dentures
Implant-supported bridges are used when you are missing more than one tooth. We will place a dental implant in your gum and then use the implant to permanently cement the bridgework. The implants also work to simulate tooth roots, which can maintain the integrity of the jawbone.
Tips for Caring for Your Dentures
Even though you may wear dentures, you still must pay attention to your oral health. Brush your gums, tongue and roof of your mouth, and any remaining teeth if you don’t have full dentures. This will ensure plaque cannot build up and lead to gum disease. Your dentures should also be brushed regularly to remove food particles and plaque and to prevent staining.
Rinse Your Dentures
Rinse your dentures before brushing to ensure you remove any loose food or debris
Use Soft-Bristled Brush
Use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive cleanser
Clean Your Mouth
Clean your mouth thoroughly before placing the dentures back in.
Keep in a Safe Place
Keep your dentures in a safe place when not wearing them – cover them in water whenever possible
Dentures FAQ
A visit with Dr. Mark at SmileCare Dental is a great start! He can determine the extent of your issue and create a treatment plan that will address your needs. In some cases, another treatment option may be more ideal. Dr. Mark will discuss these options with you and help you choose the option that is right for you.
Call our office, so we can look at the damage and determine if it can be repaired or if you need new dentures. We want to ensure a proper fit to avoid pain and discomfort.
While you can sleep in your dentures, we recommend removing them before sleep. This gives your mouth a chance to relax without the pressure of the denture and allows you to properly clean and soak them overnight.
It can take a little bit of time to get used to wearing dentures, so you may want to eat soft foods in the first few days you have your dentures. In no time you should be able to eat all your favorite foods but take special care when eating hard or sticky foods. Using a bit of denture adhesive to hold your dentures in place can help before eating these types of foods. We do recommend avoiding chewing gum, however. Gum tends to stick to the acrylic and can break the seal of the dentures.
It is possible that over time, your dentures may need a procedure called a reline. This will refit the base of the denture, ensuring a tighter and more comfortable fit.
It is important to brush your dentures regularly. Not only will this remove plaque and debris, it will also decrease the risk of staining. Using a non-abrasive soap or denture cleanser and a soft-bristled toothbrush, make sure to brush every surface of the dentures thoroughly. Do not use regular toothpaste to brush your dentures. Certain chemical components used in toothpastes can be damaging to the dentures, especially those in whitening toothpastes.
Immediate dentures are custom-made prosthetic teeth that are placed the same day your natural teeth are extracted, eliminating the need to go without teeth during healing. Unlike traditional dentures that require several weeks of healing before fabrication, immediate dentures are pre-fabricated based on impressions taken before extraction. This means you leave our Fitchburg dental office with functional teeth on the day of your procedure. As your gums heal and reshape over the following months, adjustment appointments will be necessary to maintain proper fit and comfort.
How long does it take to get immediate dentures in Fitchburg?
The entire process typically takes one to two weeks from your initial consultation to placement day. During your first visit at SmileCare Dental, we'll take impressions and discuss your specific needs with our dentist in Fitchburg, MA. Your dentures will be carefully crafted in our laboratory during this time, and you'll return for the extraction and placement appointment. Because immediate dentures are fabricated before tooth removal, patients in the Fitchburg area can have teeth restored immediately without experiencing an edentulous period.
Will immediate dentures feel natural and comfortable right away?
While immediate dentures function well and look natural from day one, some initial adjustment period is normal as your mouth adapts to the new prosthetics. Your gums will continue to heal and change shape for several months after extraction, so we schedule follow-up appointments to refine the fit and bite. Most patients experience increased comfort within the first few weeks as they adapt to wearing dentures. Our Fitchburg dentist team will provide clear instructions on care, cleaning, and adjustment to help you transition smoothly.
What is the cost of immediate dentures compared to traditional dentures?
Immediate dentures are typically similar in cost to traditional dentures, though prices vary based on complexity and material selection. The advantage is that you're not paying for temporary solutions or extended healing time without teeth. SmileCare Dental offers transparent pricing and works with patients to understand their investment in immediate dentures. We recommend scheduling a consultation with our dentist to discuss your budget and financing options available in Fitchburg.
How do I care for and maintain my immediate dentures?
Immediate dentures require daily cleaning with a soft denture brush and denture cleaner to prevent staining and odor. You should remove them each night to allow your gums to rest and air out, then soak them in a denture solution overnight. Avoid using hot water or wearing dentures while sleeping, as these can cause warping and tissue damage. Our team at SmileCare Dental in Fitchburg will provide detailed care instructions and schedule regular maintenance appointments to ensure your dentures remain comfortable and functional for years to come.
