When most people hear the word “dentures,” they picture something their grandparents wore. Maybe a set that clicked when they talked. Maybe a glass of water on the nightstand. And maybe a smile that just didn’t look quite real.
We understand why that image sticks around. It’s what people saw for decades. But dentures have come a long way. Today’s dentures look natural, feel comfortable, and actually fit to stay in place. At Kildaire Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we help patients find the right fit for their smile.
Why Someone Might Need Dentures
Losing teeth happens for all kinds of reasons. Gum disease is a big one. So is injury. Sometimes years of wear and tear catch up with a person. Sometimes genetics just aren’t on someone’s side.
Whatever the reason, missing teeth affect more than a smile. They make eating harder. They change how a person speaks. And they can even cause the jawbone to shrink over time because there’s nothing there to stimulate it.
Dentures solve those problems. They give patients back their ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.
Partial vs. Full Dentures
Not everyone needs a complete set. Partial dentures fill in the gaps when someone still has some healthy teeth left. They clasp onto the surrounding teeth for support. Think of them like a puzzle piece that completes the picture.
Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, either top or bottom. They rest on the gums and can be held in place with adhesive or, in some cases, dental implants.
We talk through both options with every patient. The right choice depends on how many teeth are left, the health of the gums and bone, and what the patient wants for their daily life.
What Makes Our Dentures Different
Here’s where we separate ourselves from the old-school denture experience.
- We take our time with the fit: A denture that doesn’t fit right is uncomfortable and unstable. It slips when you talk. It rubs sore spots on your gums. And it makes you avoid foods you love. We use digital impressions and careful measurements to get it right.
- We focus on how it looks: Modern dentures are crafted to match your face shape, the shade of your natural teeth, and the way you smile. Nobody should be able to tell the difference.
- We offer follow-up care: Dentures aren’t a one-and-done thing. The mouth changes over time. We check the fit at regular visits and make adjustments as needed.
What to Expect During the Process
Getting dentures takes a few appointments. Here’s the general flow.
- Consultation: We examine your mouth, talk about your goals, and decide together whether dentures are the right path.
- Impressions: We capture detailed digital images of your gums and any remaining teeth. These guide the creation of your custom dentures.
- Try-in: Before we make the final dentures, you’ll see a trial version. You can check the fit, the look, and the bite. If anything needs tweaking, we adjust it now.
- Final placement: We place your finished dentures and check everything one more time. We also walk you through home care.
Caring for Dentures
Dentures need daily cleaning, just like natural teeth. Brush them with a soft toothbrush and denture cleaner. Rinse them after meals. Take them out at night so your gums can rest.
And don’t skip your dental visits. We need to check the fit and make sure your gums stay healthy.
Ready to Talk About Dentures?
If missing teeth have been holding you back, we want to help. There’s no shame in needing dentures. There’s only the chance to smile again.
Call our Cary office or request an appointment online. We’re right here serving our neighbors from Holly Springs, Apex, and beyond. Let’s find the right fit for you.