Dentures And Partial Dentures in Aurora, CO

Dentures are removable dental prosthetics designed to replace missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissue. They restore the ability to chew and speak more clearly, while also supporting the lips and cheeks to maintain a natural facial appearance. Partial dentures replace one or more missing teeth and attach to your remaining natural teeth, while full dentures replace all teeth in an upper or lower arch.

At Alameda Dental, Dr. Casandra Barnes works closely with each patient to determine the most appropriate denture solution. We offer full dentures, partial dentures, and implant-supported dentures that snap onto dental implants for added stability. Our goal is to create a restoration that fits comfortably, functions well, and looks natural. Every denture is custom-made using impressions of your mouth to match your unique oral anatomy.

If you are missing teeth and want to explore your options, we welcome you to call our Aurora office at (303) 343-7072 to schedule a consultation.

Full Dentures A full denture replaces an entire arch of missing teeth. It consists of a gum-colored acrylic base that supports a full set of artificial teeth. Full dentures rest directly on the gums and are typically held in place by suction or a small amount of denture adhesive. For patients who have recently had teeth extracted, we may discuss immediate dentures, which are placed the same day so you never have to be without teeth while your gums heal.

Partial Dentures When some healthy natural teeth remain, a partial denture can fill the gaps. A partial denture is made of a metal framework or flexible material that clasps onto your natural teeth for support. The replacement teeth are attached to this framework, blending with your existing smile. Partials help prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of position and distribute chewing forces more evenly.

Implant-Supported Dentures For patients seeking greater stability, implant-supported dentures use two or more dental implants placed in the jawbone to anchor the denture. These dentures snap onto the implants, reducing movement and improving confidence when eating and speaking. Implant-supported dentures can be designed for a full arch or to support a partial denture. Dr. Barnes will evaluate your bone structure and overall health to see if this option is suitable for you.

During your consultation, we will review which type of denture best fits your needs and preferences.

Dentures are suitable for many people who have lost some or all of their teeth due to decay, injury, or gum disease. Good candidates generally have healthy gums and sufficient bone structure to support a denture, though even if some bone loss has occurred, dentures can often be designed to accommodate it.

Candidacy for implant-supported dentures depends on having enough jawbone density to support the implants. If bone density is insufficient, we may discuss bone grafting or alternative options.

The best way to determine if dentures are right for you is through a comprehensive examination. At your first visit, Dr. Barnes will review your medical and dental history, discuss your concerns and goals, and perform a thorough oral evaluation. We may take digital X-rays or impressions to get a clear picture of your oral structures. Then we’ll talk through your options, including the pros and cons of each, so you can make an informed decision.

We encourage you to ask all your questions during the consultation. Our team is here to help you understand the process from start to finish.

Getting dentures usually takes place over several appointments, allowing us to ensure a precise, comfortable fit. Here is a general outline of what you can expect:

Consultation and Planning Your journey begins with a thorough exam and discussion. If extractions are needed, we’ll plan the timing and whether an immediate denture is right for you.

Impressions and Records We take precise impressions of your mouth to create a custom model. These records guide the dental laboratory in fabricating your denture.

Shade and Shape Selection Together, we choose the shade, size, and shape of the artificial teeth and the gum-colored base. Our goal is to create a smile that looks natural and complements your facial features.

Try-In Appointment Before the denture is finalized, we often schedule a try-in visit. You’ll preview how the denture looks and feels in your mouth. We can make adjustments to the fit, bite, and appearance at this stage.

Delivery and Adjustments Once your denture is ready, you’ll return for the final fitting. We’ll check the fit, make any minor adjustments, and provide you with instructions on how to insert and remove the denture, as well as how to care for it. It’s normal to need a few follow-up visits as your mouth adapts to the new appliance.

Throughout the process, we prioritize your comfort. If you feel anxious, let us know—we can adjust the pace and discuss ways to help you relax.

Modern dentures are crafted from materials chosen for durability, appearance, and biocompatibility. The base of a denture is typically made of high-quality acrylic, colored to match your natural gum tissue. The artificial teeth can be made from acrylic or porcelain. Acrylic teeth are lightweight and bond securely to the base, while porcelain teeth offer a very natural translucency and are highly wear-resistant.

For partial dentures, the framework is often made of a strong, lightweight metal alloy or a flexible resin that blends with the gums for a discreet look. We will discuss the material options that best suit your situation and budget.

Customization is key. Dr. Barnes pays careful attention to the shade, contour, and alignment of the teeth so your denture looks like a natural part of your smile. Your input is important—we encourage you to share your preferences during the selection process.

Dentures offer many meaningful improvements for those missing teeth:

• Chewing Function: Dentures restore much of your ability to chew, allowing you to enjoy a more varied and nutritious diet. Start with softer foods and gradually add more foods as you adjust.
• Speech: Missing teeth can alter the way you pronounce words. Dentures help you speak more clearly by providing the support your tongue and lips need.
• Facial Appearance: Without teeth, the muscles of the face can sag, leading to a sunken look. Dentures fill out the lips and cheeks, helping you maintain a youthful facial profile.
• Confidence: A complete, natural-looking smile can boost your self-esteem and make social interactions more comfortable.

It’s important to have realistic expectations. Even well-fitting dentures take time to get used to. At first, you may notice increased saliva, slight gum soreness, or minor speech changes. These usually resolve within a few weeks as your mouth adapts. Dentures are not as stable as natural teeth or implant-supported restorations; they can shift during eating or speaking, and certain hard or sticky foods may need to be avoided. Over time, the shape of your jaw can change, requiring relines or replacements to maintain a good fit.

Our team will be with you through the adjustment period, providing guidance and any needed modifications.

Taking good care of your dentures is essential for their longevity and your oral health. Here are some key points:

• Daily Cleaning: Remove and rinse your dentures after eating to remove food debris. Brush them daily using a soft denture brush and a non-abrasive cleaner. Do not use regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive.
• Soaking Overnight: Most dentures need to be kept moist when not in use to prevent warping. Place them in water or a mild denture-soaking solution overnight. Always rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
• Handle with Care: Dentures can break if dropped. Stand over a folded towel or a basin of water when handling them.
• Oral Hygiene: Even with full dentures, continue to clean your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft toothbrush or gauze each day. If you have partial dentures, brush and floss your remaining natural teeth carefully.
• Regular Checkups: We recommend regular dental visits so we can examine your denture, check the fit, and screen for any oral health issues. Over time, your denture may need relining (resurfacing the tissue side) or rebasing (replacing the entire base) to maintain comfort and function.

If your denture becomes loose, cracked, or causes persistent discomfort, please call us at (303) 343-7072. Prompt attention can prevent further issues.

The cost of dentures varies widely depending on the type of denture (full, partial, implant-supported), the materials used, any extractions or preparatory procedures needed, and your individual oral anatomy. Because every case is unique, we provide a detailed, written estimate after your consultation and evaluation.

Dental insurance often provides some coverage for dentures, but the amount depends on your specific plan. We’ll help you understand what is covered and what your out-of-pocket responsibility may be.

We are happy to discuss payment options and answer any questions. Call us at (303) 343-7072 to learn more or schedule an appointment.

If you’re ready to explore dentures and partial dentures, the first step is a personal consultation with Dr. Casandra Barnes. We are conveniently located at 14591 E Alameda Ave, Aurora, CO 80012, serving Aurora and the surrounding communities.

During your visit, we’ll listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and perform a thorough examination. You’ll receive a clear explanation of your options, so you can decide what’s right for you at your own pace. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, honest care without high-pressure sales.

To schedule your consultation, call (303) 343-7072 or use our online appointment request form. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile.