Types of Dentures
Your dentist will help you choose the best option based on your oral health and how many teeth you need to replace.
1. Complete (full) dentures are used when all the teeth in an upper or lower arch are missing. They rest on the gums and are held in place by suction and a natural seal.
- Conventional dentures are made and placed after the remaining teeth are removed and the gums have fully healed, which can take several months.
- Immediate dentures are made in advance and placed as soon as the teeth are removed, so you are never without teeth while you heal. As the gums and bone shrink, they need adjustments to keep a good fit.
2. Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Replacement teeth on a pink base are connected by a metal or plastic framework with clasps that hold onto your natural teeth. They are a removable alternative to dental bridges. Read more about partials.
3. Implant-supported dentures snap onto dental implants, small titanium posts in the jawbone. The secure fit stops slipping, gives stronger chewing and helps prevent bone loss. See implant restorations.
Benefits of Dentures
- Restored function: chew a wider variety of foods and enjoy meals again.
- Clearer speech: missing teeth can cause slurring or mumbling; dentures help you speak clearly.
- Improved appearance: dentures fill out your smile and support your facial muscles.
- More confidence: a complete smile helps you feel at ease with family, friends and at work.
- Affordable: dentures are a cost-effective way to restore a whole arch of teeth.
Getting Your Dentures
Several appointments make sure your dentures fit comfortably:
- Consultation: a complete exam, X-rays and a conversation about your goals to choose the right type of denture.
- Impressions and measurements: precise impressions of your jaws and how they meet, so your dentures bite correctly.
- Try-in: you try a wax or plastic model to check the color, shape and fit, and we make adjustments before the final denture is made.
- Final fitting: we fine-tune the fit and show you how to wear and care for your dentures.
The American Dental Association’s guide to dentures has more helpful information.
Cost of Dentures in Elgin, IL
The cost depends on the type of denture (full, partial or implant-supported), the materials and your case. Dental insurance often covers part of the cost. We give you a detailed estimate, help you understand your benefits and work with you on a solution that fits your budget, including monthly payments through Cherry and CareCredit.
Caring for Your Dentures
- Handle with care: dentures can break if dropped. Hold them over a folded towel or a sink of water.
- Clean daily: brush them with a soft denture brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser. Regular toothpaste can be too abrasive.
- Soak overnight: most dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape. Soak them in denture solution or plain water.
- Clean your mouth: brush your gums, tongue and palate gently after taking your dentures out.
- Come in for checkups: your mouth changes over time, and dentures may need to be relined or remade for a good fit.
Reclaim Your Smile in Elgin, IL
Dentures are a proven way to get back a functional, confident smile. Contact our Elgin office to schedule a consultation, and ask about tooth-colored fillings for any remaining natural teeth.
This page is general information, not medical or dental advice. Please talk with your dentist about your own care.
