Understanding Your Denture Options
Not all dentures work the same way. The type that’s right for you depends on how many teeth you’re replacing and the condition of your gums and jawbone.
Complete Dentures
These replace all the teeth in your upper or lower arch (or both). The denture base sits directly on your gum tissue and stays in place through suction and proper fit. Complete dentures become an option when you’ve lost all your teeth in an arch or when remaining teeth are too damaged to save.
Partial Dentures
If you still have some healthy natural teeth, a partial denture fills in the gaps. Metal clasps or precision attachments connect the partial to your existing teeth, keeping it stable while you eat and talk. Partials prevent your remaining teeth from shifting into empty spaces, which can throw off your bite.
Immediate Dentures
Sometimes teeth need to come out before your gums can heal enough for a permanent denture. Immediate dentures are placed the same day as your extractions, so you never have to go without teeth. They serve as temporary replacements while your mouth heals, then you’ll transition to a final set once everything has settled.
The Process of Getting Dentures
Getting fitted for dentures in Clovis takes several appointments, but each step builds toward a final product that fits well and feels comfortable.
Dr. Matthew J. Malan starts by examining your mouth, taking X-rays, and discussing which type of denture makes sense for your situation. If you need extractions, those happen first. Your gums need time to heal before you can get accurate impressions for permanent dentures.
Once your mouth is ready, the dentist takes detailed impressions of your gums. These molds capture the exact shape of your mouth so the lab can create dentures that fit snugly. You’ll also choose the size, shape, and shade of your replacement teeth during this phase. The goal is to match your natural facial proportions and skin tone so everything looks harmonious.
A try-in appointment lets you see how the dentures look before they’re finalized. This is your chance to request adjustments to the tooth color, arrangement, or how they sit in your mouth. Once you approve the fit and appearance, the lab completes the final processing.
Adjusting to Life With Dentures in Clovis
The first few weeks with new dentures feel strange. Your mouth needs time to adapt to having something foreign resting on your gums. You might produce more saliva than usual at first, and certain words might sound different when you speak. These issues fade as your muscles learn to work with the dentures.
Eating requires some practice initially. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly and use both sides of your mouth to keep the dentures stable. As you gain confidence, you can gradually add firmer foods back into your diet. Some things—like sticky caramels or whole apples—might always be tricky, but most people adapt well enough to enjoy a varied diet.
Denture adhesive can help during the adjustment period, especially with upper dentures. A small amount creates extra security while you’re building muscle memory. Some people continue using adhesive long-term, while others find their dentures stay put on their own once everything settles.
Caring for Your Dentures
Dentures need daily cleaning just like natural teeth. Food particles and plaque build up on them throughout the day, and bacteria can cause bad breath or gum irritation if left unchecked.
Remove and rinse your dentures after eating. Brush them daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner—regular toothpaste is too abrasive and can scratch the surface. Handle them carefully over a folded towel or sink filled with water since they can break if dropped on a hard surface.
Soak your dentures overnight in water or denture solution to keep them from drying out and warping. This also gives your gum tissue a chance to rest. In the morning, rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
When Dentures Need Adjustments
Your mouth changes over time. The bone and gum tissue gradually shrink after tooth loss, which can make dentures feel loose even if they fit perfectly at first. Most people need their dentures relined every few years to maintain a good fit.
Signs your dentures need attention include slipping when you eat or talk, sore spots on your gums, or difficulty keeping them in place. Don’t try to adjust them yourself with household glues or tools—you can damage them permanently. A professional relining or adjustment restores the fit without compromising the denture structure.
Implant-Supported Options
Traditional dentures rest on your gums, but implant-supported versions attach to metal posts placed in your jawbone. This creates a more stable foundation that doesn’t slip or require adhesive. Implants also help preserve your jawbone by providing the stimulation that normally comes from natural tooth roots.
The process involves oral surgery to place the implants, followed by a healing period before the dentures can be attached. It’s a bigger investment upfront, but offers advantages in stability and comfort for people who qualify.
Regain Your Confidence
Missing teeth don’t have to limit what you eat or make you hide your smile in photos. Dentures in Clovis restore both function and appearance, letting you get back to enjoying meals with family and feeling comfortable in conversations. Contact Matthew J. Malan, DDS, to discuss which denture option fits your needs and budget. Call today to book your consultation and start the process of reclaiming your smile.