Dentures in Fredericksburg, VA

Dentures are artificial replacement teeth designed to restore comfort, function, and appearance to the mouth when teeth are missing. Dentures fit over the jawbone ridge and gums, providing a non-invasive and affordable solution that works for most adults.

Types of Dentures Offered at Elevated Dental Care of Fredericksburg

At Elevated Dental Care, we offer a range of denture options to meet the diverse needs of our patients. We can tailor denture plans to their budget, the number of missing teeth, and the level of comfort and convenience they desire.

Full Mouth Dentures

These are dentures for all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. If you are missing most or all of your teeth, full mouth dentures are an excellent solution. Any remaining teeth are extracted, and our denture lab fabricates customized dentures based on scans taken at our office for a perfect fit and natural appearance. Most full mouth dentures are made of acrylic resin, although the teeth can also be made of porcelain. Some newer dentures have bases made of a flexible acrylic for a more comfortable fit.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Implant-retained dentures look and function like traditional dentures, but snap onto bars or balls attached to implants in the jawbone. These are more stable and have less movement, but can be removed whenever needed for cleaning or to sleep at night. Implant-retained dentures are usually made from acrylic resin or composite resins. Some have a metal framework to increase their durability and make them easier to snap onto the support posts or bar.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures, also known as partial dentures or partial plates, replace a few missing teeth and can be made of flexible acrylic, metal, or a combination of both. They resemble orthodontic retainers that hold false teeth, with fasteners that may hook over adjacent natural teeth for stability.

Benefits of Dentures for Missing Teeth

• Customized fit for comfort and a natural look
• Supports facial features to avoid a sunken appearance
• Restores your ability to eat comfortably
• You can speak more clearly
• Dentures are a non-invasive solution for missing teeth
• Dentures are more affordable than dental implants
• Getting dentures is a relatively quick solution compared to implants

Process for Getting New Dentures

Getting dentures begins with an appointment with one of our dentists to determine the type of denture that is right for you and to get an impression of your gums and any remaining teeth. This impression will serve as our dental lab’s guide when fabricating your dentures. If any teeth need to be extracted, we will do so at this appointment. If you desire a temporary denture to wear while waiting for your permanent one, we can usually provide one.

Our dental lab creates a base for your dentures using the 3D impression of your mouth, then adds the artificial teeth. When they are ready, they are sent to our office. At your second appointment, you will try on your new dentures, and we will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable, precise fit. Any rough edges are smoothed away, and your new dentures are polished to a natural shine.                          

First Time Denture Wearers: What to Expect

Wearing dentures for the first time requires some adjustment, but you will soon wonder why you waited so long to get your new teeth. The first week or so may feel awkward, but give yourself time to adjust. Here are a few things you should expect when wearing dentures for the first time and how you can adjust:

• You will feel like there is something bulky in your mouth. After a few weeks, you won’t notice this, and your dentures will feel natural. Try reading out loud at home. This will help you adjust to the feeling of the dentures and improve your ability to speak clearly while wearing dentures.
• You may experience increased salivation. This will subside on its own over a few weeks.
• Gums will be tender at first as they adjust to the presence of the dentures. Be sure to take your dentures out for at least eight hours a day to rest your gums (particularly for sleeping). If you have particularly sore spots that are rubbing after the first few weeks, contact our office. We may need to make some minor adjustments for your comfort.
• Chewing and eating will take some practice. Begin with soft foods until you get the hang of it, then work your way up to firmer foods.

Dentures vs Implants

While implants offer durability and stability, dentures remain a reliable, cost-effective choice for those who may not want or qualify for implant procedures.

Cost of Dentures

Dentures remain one of the most affordable options for replacing missing teeth. The upfront cost varies depending on the type of denture, the materials used, and the number of teeth replaced. Keep in mind that there are also maintenance costs over the years, including periodic relining and repairs, although these are minimal. Dentures typically need to be replaced every 5 to 10 years. Most dental insurance plans cover all or part of the cost of replacing your dentures periodically.

Why Choose Elevated Denture Care

The denture specialists at Elevated Dental Care take pride in providing exceptional dental care and dentures to patients in the Fredericksburg area. Their personal attention to detail and unique rapport with patients eliminates dental anxiety. It makes getting and adjusting to dentures far easier than patients expect. We explain the process, listen to your concerns, and answer your questions before proceeding so there are no surprises. For a smooth transition and dentures that fit perfectly, work flawlessly, and look naturally beautiful, Elevated Dental Care in Fredericksburg, VA is the ideal choice.