Full & Partial Dentures in Lawrence, MA

How Do Dentures Work

A denture is a removable dental appliance made from highly detailed impressions of your oral structures. Dentures are used to replace missing teeth and are supported by your gums and surrounding tissues. Despite being used in dentistry for centuries, modern dentures are more comfortable than ever before! Today’s dentures are made from high-quality, natural-looking materials for lasting smiles that look and feel just like your natural teeth. Once placed in your mouth, no one will be able to tell you’re wearing dentures!

What Types Of Dentures Are There?

Removable Full Dentures

This type of denture is used to replace a full arch (top or bottom jaw) when you lose all your teeth. A full denture is removable and can be taken out at night to clean.

Implant-supported Dentures

A type of denture that is anchored to your jaw with dental implants. Also known as fixed dentures or Teeth-in-a-Day, this type of denture requires jaw surgery.

Partial Dentures

A type of removable denture that is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It sits on a lightweight metal frame and sits comfortably in your mouth to fill the gap in your smile.

Implant-supported Partials

Also known as a fixed or implant bridge, this type of denture snaps into place using a dental implant.

How Long Does It Take To Get Dentures?

The process of getting dentures can take 2-3 months, but this can vary depending on your dental care needs and whether you need a full or partial denture. If you need to have any teeth to be extracted before you receive your denture or undergo dental implant surgery to anchor your denture to your jaw, you will have an additional healing period that can lengthen the process.

Here is what you can expect when you decide to get dentures:

First, your dentist will begin by making highly detailed impressions of your mouth. The dentist will also take measurements of your mouth to make sure your bite pattern is correct. This step typically includes a wax mockup of your artificial teeth so your dentist can ensure the best possible look and fit for the denture. Finally, the model will go to a dental lab for fabrication.

You will return for several visits as we continue the process of creating your custom-made dentures. Each time you visit, the mockup denture will need adjustments. This is to make sure your dentures fit comfortably and look natural in your mouth. The artificial teeth need to be the proper length and width, or it will impact the look of your finished smile.

Once your final dentures are completed, you will return for the final fitting. Sometimes more adjustments are necessary to ensure the optimal fit and comfort. An ill-fitting denture can cause sores on the gums, so it’s essential that your dentures look and feel great.

How Long Do Dentures Last?

Like any oral prosthetic, your dentures will have to be repaired or readjusted due to normal wear. You can expect your dentures to last 5-8 years before needing to be remade or replaced. Be sure to go to regular dental checkups with your dentist to assess the condition of your dentures and make any necessary adjustments or repairs.

How Do I Take Care Of My Dentures?

Remove your dentures and rinse them after meals. Use cool water to remove any food or debris from your dentures and keep them clean.

Handle your dentures carefully and try not to bend them.

Clean your mouth after removing your dentures. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush on any remaining natural teeth you may have and on your tongue, gums, and palate. If used, remove any remaining denture paste or adhesive from your gum to prevent irritation.

Brush your dentures with a soft-bristled brush at least once daily. Use a nonabrasive denture cleanser to remove food, plaque and other deposits. Be sure to remove any remaining denture paste or adhesive.

Soak your dentures overnight to keep them moist and help them retain their shape.

Always rinse your dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth, especially if you’re using a denture-soaking solution. These solutions can contain harmful chemicals and can be dangerous if swallowed.

Do You Take Insurance?

Yes, we do! Our team strives to provide affordable, accessible dental care with our worry-free insurance and billing policies. We accept most major dental insurance plans, including MassHealth, Delta Dental, BlueCross BlueShield, Altus, United Healthcare, and Cigna. For more information, please ask a friendly member of our front desk staff! We are here to help you make the most of your insurance benefits and assist you in any way we can.

Frequently Asked Questions

It takes a few weeks for your mouth to adjust to your dentures. Your gums will feel tender and it will take some time to get used to eating. If you need your remaining teeth pulled prior to receiving dentures, this procedure will require a period of healing as well. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions on how to reduce your discomfort while you heal. Should you experience any issues with your dentures, be sure to call our office right away for a follow-up.

While a considerable investment in your oral health, dentures are typically more affordable than dental implants. The total cost of your dentures will depend on your case and the type of dentures you choose, such as full or partial. Our team will discuss all treatment costs and payment options during your denture consultation.

In most cases, yes. Dental insurance will usually cover the cost of your dentures in part or full, depending on your plan. Our friendly team is here to help you and will answer any questions you may have about your insurance, deductible, and all treatment costs.

Why Choose Smiles Dental Center

Since 2003, Smiles Dental Center has provided gentle, expert dentistry to our friends and neighbors of the Lawrence community. Dr. James Katib and his associates will make you and your whole family comfortable visiting the dentist! We are a caring, family-friendly dental practice. Our team speaks English and Spanish to serve the diverse needs of our community.

I had a great experience here! The staff are very kind and friendly. The Dentist himself is wonderful. He genuinely cares about how his patients feel and look after having any work done. I recommend Smiles Dental to everyone looking for a dentist.

Michelle N.

There’s nothing I dread more than the dentist but Dr. Katib makes the experience stress and pain free! The office is great too.

Yvonne R.

Friday’s after doing all the testing both at Smile Dental and at his office (Summer Dental Office) in Haverhill. He informed me that he could do it but it would not last because of bone loss and referred me to another specialist. This is what I call a true doctor.

Francisca F.

Dentures in Lawrence, Massachusetts

How Do Dentures Work

Meet Our Dedicated Doctor

James Katib, DMD