Millions of Americans are afflicted with tooth loss, whether due to facial trauma, bone loss or simple decay. One of the most tried-and-tested options for restoring lost teeth is with dentures. In Motion Dentists is pleased to provide dentures for our patients in La Verne, CA through a wide range of options to address your dental needs and your budget.

We invite you to learn more about the process of getting dentures, and the amazing results you could achieve with our dental team.

What are Dentures?

Dentures are removable dental prosthetics that replace missing teeth. Dentures are designed to look as natural as possible and can also help restore chewing function. These removable prostheses are an affordable option compared to more permanent options such as implants. Dentures must be removed at night and soaked in a cleaning solution to maintain good oral hygiene. Depending on the diagnosis, a doctor will recommend either a partial denture or a complete denture. A partial denture replaces a few teeth, whereas a complete denture replaces all your teeth.

Why Would I Need Dentures? Am I a Candidate?

If you have lost teeth or know that you are going to lose teeth, it is crucial to find a replacement. Without restoring lost teeth, you place yourself in a higher risk category for further gum, bone, and tissue decay, as well as difficulties with chewing and eating.

You may be a good candidate for dentures if you fall into any of the following categories:

  • You are missing several teeth or need to have several teeth extracted.
  • You do not have enough jawbone mass to get dental implants.
  • You prefer something less expensive than dental implants.
  • You want a natural-looking way to restore lost teeth.
  • You have highly sensitive teeth, or are experiencing significant tooth decay.

The Benefits of Dentures

For many patients, dentures are an affordable way to address tooth loss in a natural and comfortable way. These are just a few of the benefits you can expect from your dentures:

  • Dentures can improve the aesthetics of your smile and boost your self-esteem.
  • Dentures are personally customized to fit your mouth just for you.
  • Dentures are removable, which makes them very easy to clean and maintain.
  • Dentures can provide much-needed support to your facial muscles.
  • Getting dentures can help you reduce your risk of further oral tissue decay.

Meet Our Dentists

At In Motion Dentists, we take a lot of pride in our top quality customer service. We make sure that all our patients experience a warm welcome and receive top standard care. All of our team members are well-trained and strive to offer exceptional service in dentistry. Learn more about our team today.

Types of Dentures to Consider: Your Options

Depending on the extent of your tooth loss, you may receive either a partial or complete denture. Your dentist will provide the best recommendation upon your oral examination.

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures will give you a full set of custom-made replacement teeth. You may get a complete arch for your upper teeth, for your lower teeth, or both. Complete dentures will be recommended if a patient has no existing teeth or needs to have the remaining teeth removed due to large cavities or significant bone loss around teeth. Complete dentures will have a gum-colored base that fits securely and comfortably.

Partial Dentures

A partial denture would be most beneficial for patients who have several strong healthy teeth still in place. Partial dentures can either be made with an acrylic or metal framework. The framework will not be visible as it will sit either onto the roof or the bottom of the mouth. Partial dentures usually have clasps that will wrap around your existing teeth to provide a better fit. Teeth that are replaced using a a partial denture are made to resemble your healthy, natural teeth, providing a seamless appearance. Doctors at In Motion Dentists ensure that the partial dentures have a secure and comfortable fit.

Snap On Dentures

Are Dentures Uncomfortable?

One of the big concerns that patients have about dentures is whether or not they will cause discomfort. The goal of dentures is always to establish a secure and natural fit. Our dentists are meticulous in ensuring every patient receive high quality dentures. It is normal to experience some soreness at the outset of your denture delivery. If you experience any soreness, doctors can make adjustments to relieve any pain or discomfort.

How Long Will it Take My Mouth to Get Used to Dentures?

When you first have dentures placed, they will give you a very “full” feel in your mouth and cheeks. This is not painful, necessarily, but can feel a little unnatural. You may also develop sore spots or irritation along your gums. We recommend washing your gums with warm salt water multiple times a day, for two or three days. If the pain persists, give us a call. With all of that said, you should feel completely accustomed to your dentures within 30 days or so.

Will They Look Like Real Teeth?

The goal of dentures is to always present a natural appearance. Remember that your dentures will be custom-fit for your mouth and made to resemble your healthy and natural teeth as closely as possible. In Motion Dentists strive to ensure our patients are pleased with the final results.

How Much Do Dentures Cost in La Verne, CA?

One of the most common questions about dentures is how much they are going to cost. This will be dependent on whether you need partial or complete dentures. Additionally, the cost may vary depending on the quality of teeth you decide to get (either plastic or porcelain). We invite you to check out our Pricing page for general costs. The best way to get a more individualized estimate is to contact our office for a consultation.

Are Dentures Covered by My Insurance?

Depending on your insurance, companies will treat dentures differently, but most dental health plans consider dentures to be a medical necessity. As such, your insurance may pay a significant portion of the cost. As always, it is wise to confirm this with your specific dental insurance policy. Also, note that In Motion Dentists offers affordable rates and flexible financing for those who do not have insurance.

Pros and Cons of Getting Dentures

At In Motion Dentists, we are happy to provide a full spectrum of solutions for tooth replacement. Many of our patients simply feel more comfortable with dentures, which are familiar and convenient. For others, we would more readily recommend dental implants. Both options are effective, and we are happy to speak with you one-on-one about the different pros and cons.

Dentures vs. Dental Implants

Dental implants are essentially metal posts that are surgically placed into your gum and then topped off with a crown to replace any missing teeth. Dental implants address many of the same problems as dentures and are considered a more permanent solution as they are not removable prostheses.

Are There Any Other Alternatives?

If interested, an implant retained denture is where a denture is attached to metal posts that are surgically placed in your gums. Implant dentures are often not removable and are a more permanent solution. For patients who are dealing with minor tooth loss, it may be worth considering dental bridges, which can be a less-invasive approach to restoring a handful of lost teeth.

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What to Expect When Getting Dentures: The Process

The process of getting dentures can vary, depending on the specific needs of each patient. For some general guidelines, however, consider the following road map.

How Long Does the Denture Process Take from Start to Finish?

The total timeline for getting dentures can vary greatly: For some, it takes as little as two weeks; for others, as long as two months. There are many factors here, including the number of teeth you have extracted and the number of additional dental processes you require along the way.

Dental Examination

The process begins with a thorough examination from one of our dentists. A dental examination consists of an oral evaluation and radiographic images that will allow us to determine the overall state of your oral health and to evaluate if any teeth need to be extracted prior to the denture process. Based on your evaluation, the doctor will provide their recommendations on how to proceed.

Making the Dentures

If no preliminary treatment is needed the denture process averages 2-4 office visits before delivery of the denture. The first appointment will be dedicated to taking impressions. In between your first and last appointment, you will be scheduled to try in custom fit molds of your dentures. These molds will be made of wax and be adjusted if they are not fitting properly. Once you are content with the fit, the lab will fabricate the dentures with the appropriate materials and then will be delivered on your last appointment.

Fitting the Dentures

Once your dentures have been sent back to us from the lab, we will invite you to the office to make certain they fit accordingly and look aesthetically pleasing. During this appointment, denture care instructions will be explained to you.

Adapting to the Dentures

You should anticipate some “growing pains” for the first few weeks. You will need to get used to the feel of dentures in your mouth, and also grow accustomed to denture maintenance habits. Any physical discomfort should be minor and short-lived. Most patients are fully comfortable with their dentures in 30 days or less. It is also important to note that may take a few days for you to get used to speaking with your dentures. One way to expedite this process is by practicing your speech, perhaps reading out loud to yourself. The first few days may feel discouraging, but be patient. You will get there!

After Dentures are Placed

Having your dentures placed is really just the beginning. You will have a few adjustments to make as you get used to your new set of teeth.

  • What Can I Eat with My Dentures?

    Patients always want to know how getting dentures will impact their dietary habits. For the first few days, you may want to stick to liquids and soft foods. Even once you get used to your dentures, we would recommend steering clear of tough, chewy meat, chewing gum, hard nuts, and sticky candies, including caramel.

  • How Do I Clean My Dentures?

    The best way to keep your dentures looking bright and healthy is to clean them regularly. You can do this by removing them and gently brushing them with a soft-bristle toothbrush. If you use dental adhesive, you should also clean out the grooves of your dentures. In addition, make sure you allow your dentures to soak regularly.

  • How Long Will My Dentures Last Me?

    Dentures are not made to last forever. They take on wear and tear, just like your natural teeth. Dentures become worn out at different rates, depending on how well you take care of them, but it is generally recommended that you replace your dentures every five to seven years, but can last longer with lab relines and regular dental check-ups.

La Verne’s Ideal Choice for In-Office and Mobile Dental Care

At In Motion Dentists, we are passionate about making high-quality dental care accessible to everyone. We are pleased to provide full-service denture evaluations, fittings, and more, both in our office and through our house-call dentistry team. To make an appointment with In Motion Dentists, please contact our La Verne, CA office today. Our dental care is available to patients in the surrounding Southern California areas as well, including those in Los Angeles County and Orange County.