Restorative Dentistry
Dentures in Meridian, Idaho
Custom Dentures That Fit Your Life
- Restores your ability to chew and speak
- Supports your lips and cheeks
- Custom-made for a natural look
- Full and partial options
- Implant-supported options for extra stability
- Covered in part by many insurance plans
Full, Partial, or Implant-Supported?
A full denture replaces all the teeth on the upper or lower jaw. A partial denture fills gaps when you still have some healthy natural teeth, clipping onto them for support.
Implant-supported dentures snap onto dental implants placed in the jaw. They don’t slip, they let you chew with more confidence, and the implants help preserve the jawbone. Dr. Peterson will walk you through which option fits your mouth, goals, and budget.
Dentures May Be Right for You If
- You're missing several or all of your teeth
- Your remaining teeth can't be saved
- Chewing has become difficult
- Your current denture is loose or uncomfortable
- You want a removable option
- You'd like to explore implant-supported dentures
Your Denture Journey
Dentures vs. Dental Implants
| Feature | Traditional Dentures | Implant-Supported Dentures |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Held by suction or clasps | Snaps securely onto implants |
| Chewing | Some foods are harder | Closer to natural teeth |
| Jawbone | Bone continues to shrink | Implants help preserve bone |
| Removal | Removed daily | Removed daily for cleaning |
| Cost | Lower upfront cost | Higher upfront investment |
Types of Dentures
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. The right type depends on how many teeth are missing and whether any healthy teeth remain.
Full dentures
Replace all the teeth in the upper or lower arch, held in place by suction and fit against the gums.
Partial dentures
Fill gaps when some natural teeth remain, often clipping onto neighboring teeth for support.
Adjustments
Fine-tune the fit and ease sore spots as your mouth gets used to a new denture.
Implant-supported dentures
Snap onto dental implants for a much more secure fit when eating and speaking.
Relines
Reshape the inside of an existing denture as the gums and bone change over time.
Repairs
Fix cracks, chips, or broken teeth on a denture.
Who Dentures Suit Best
Dentures are a practical, affordable way to restore a full smile and the ability to eat comfortably.
Often a good fit
- Patients missing most or all of their teeth
- People looking for an affordable tooth replacement
- Patients who are not candidates for implants
- Patients with several missing teeth who want a removable option
Needs evaluation first
- Gum disease or infection that needs treating first
- Remaining teeth that may need extraction or repair
- Significant bone loss that can affect fit
- Patients interested in a more stable implant-supported option
An exam shows which type of denture will fit best and whether any treatment is needed first.
Two Things Patients Are Rarely Told Upfront
New dentures take some getting used to. Two things are worth knowing before you start.
There is an adjustment period
Eating and speaking with new dentures usually takes practice. Sore spots are common at first, and several adjustment visits are normal.
Most people feel comfortable within a few weeks, though it can take longer. Starting with soft foods cut into small pieces helps.
Your mouth keeps changing
After teeth are lost, the jawbone slowly shrinks. Over time a denture that once fit well can become loose.
Relines and eventual replacement keep the fit comfortable. Regular checkups let us catch changes before they cause sores.
Living With Dentures
Good habits keep your dentures clean, comfortable, and lasting longer.
Clean them every day
Brush your dentures daily with a soft brush and a denture cleaner, not regular toothpaste, which can scratch them.
Take them out at night
Leaving dentures out for several hours a day gives your gums a chance to rest.
Keep them moist
Store dentures in water or a soaking solution so they do not dry out and change shape.
Handle them over a towel
Dentures can break if dropped. Clean them over a folded towel or a sink of water.
Clean your gums too
Gently brush your gums, tongue, and palate to keep your mouth healthy.
Don't adjust them yourself
If a denture rubs or feels loose, let the office adjust it rather than bending or filing it at home.
How Long Dentures Last
The average denture lasts about seven to 10 years. Over that time normal wear and changes in the jawbone affect the fit.
Relines can extend the life of a denture by refitting it to your gums. Eventually a new denture gives a better fit, better chewing, and a more natural look.
Signs your denture needs attention
It feels loose or slips
A change in fit usually means the gums and bone have changed.
Sore spots or trouble chewing
Persistent irritation or difficulty eating is a sign it is time for an adjustment or reline.
From Consultation to Final Denture, Step by Step
Getting dentures takes a few visits. Here is what to expect.
Exam and planning
Dr. Peterson checks your gums, bone, and any remaining teeth to recommend the right type of denture.
Preparation
Any needed extractions or gum treatment are completed first.
Impressions and measurements
Detailed impressions and bite measurements are taken so the denture fits your mouth.
Try-in
You preview the fit, shape, and color of the teeth before the denture is finished.
Delivery
Your finished denture is fitted and adjusted, and you learn how to care for it.
Follow-up adjustments
Short visits over the next few weeks fine-tune any sore spots as you get used to your new teeth.