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Restorative care

Dentures in Herriman

Missing several teeth can make eating and smiling harder than it should be. Custom dentures can fill the gaps, and we will help you pick the type that fits your life.

What are dentures?

Dentures are removable teeth set in a gum-colored base. A full denture replaces every tooth on the top or bottom. A partial denture fills gaps and clips to the teeth you still have.

  • Made from molds or scans of your mouth
  • Shaped and shaded to look like natural teeth
  • Can be adjusted as your mouth changes

Who dentures can help

Dentures can be a good choice if you:

  • Are missing most or all of your teeth on one arch
  • Have several gaps that make it hard to chew
  • Have teeth that are failing and need to come out
  • Want a way to replace teeth without surgery

Types we offer

  • Traditional full dentures rest on your gums once they have healed.
  • Premium dentures use sturdier, stain-resistant materials and more lifelike detail.
  • Immediate dentures go in the same day teeth are removed, so you are not without teeth. They need to be refit as your gums shrink.
  • Partial dentures sit on a light frame that hooks onto your natural teeth.

If you want a denture that does not move, ask about implant-supported dentures. Your dentist will look at your gums, bone and remaining teeth and go over the choices with you.

What to expect

  1. Exam and plan. Your dentist checks your mouth and takes x-rays. Any teeth that need to come out are planned with an extraction.
  2. Molds and bite records. We record the shape of your gums and how your jaws meet. You help choose the tooth shade and shape.
  3. Try-in. You try a wax model so you can see the look and test the bite before the final denture is made.
  4. Delivery. Your dentist fits the finished denture and shows you how to put it in, take it out and clean it.
  5. Follow-up. Sore spots are common at first. Short visits to adjust the fit help a lot.

Caring for your dentures

Take your dentures out and rinse them after meals. Brush them each day with a soft brush and a denture cleaner, not regular toothpaste, which can scratch. Clean off any adhesive. Soak them overnight so they do not dry out, and give your gums a rest. Brush your gums and tongue too. Handle dentures over a towel or water so they do not break if dropped. Over time your jaw changes shape, so see us each year to check the fit. A loose denture may need a reline.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about dentures

How long does it take to get used to dentures?
Most people need a few weeks. Speaking may feel odd at first, and chewing takes practice. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces and chew on both sides. Reading out loud can help your speech adjust faster.
Will my dentures look fake?
Today's dentures are shaded and shaped to fit your face. You help choose the look at the try-in visit, so you can ask for changes before they are finished.
How long do dentures last?
Dentures often last five to ten years. The base may need a reline sooner as your gums change. Worn teeth or a loose fit are signs it is time for a check.
Should I sleep in my dentures?
It is usually better to take them out at night. This lets your gums rest and helps prevent sores and infection. Your dentist may give you different advice for the first days with immediate dentures.
Does insurance cover dentures?
Many plans cover part of the cost of dentures. Benefits vary by plan and type of denture. We check your coverage and give you an estimate before treatment.

Related care

You may also want to know about

Tooth Extractions

Careful removal of a tooth that cannot be saved, plus a plan to replace it if you want one.

About tooth extractions

Dental Bridges

Fill the gap from one or more missing teeth with a fixed, natural-looking replacement.

About dental bridges

Questions?

Call to book your visit

Our Herriman team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.