Denture FAQs
Everything You Need to Know About Dentures
Choosing the right denture solution is an important step toward restoring your smile and your confidence. Whether you're considering full dentures, partial dentures, or implant-supported dentures, it's normal to have questions about treatment, cost, comfort, maintenance, and long-term care. In this guide, we've answered the denture questions we hear most often from patients at Cumming Dentures & Implants. From learning which type of denture is right for you to understanding how to keep your dentures fitting comfortably for years to come, these FAQs are designed to help you make informed decisions about your oral health.
What types of dentures are available?
There are several types of dentures available, and the best option depends on how many teeth you're missing, your oral health, and your treatment goals.
Complete (full) dentures replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Partial dentures replace several missing teeth while attaching to your remaining natural teeth. Patients looking for additional stability may also consider implant-supported dentures, which attach securely to dental implants rather than resting solely on the gums.
At Cumming Dentures & Implants, we'll discuss your lifestyle, budget, and oral health to help you choose the denture solution that's right for you.
Have more questions? Schedule a consultation to learn which denture option best fits your needs.
What's the difference between full and partial dentures?
Full dentures replace an entire arch of missing teeth, while partial dentures fill in gaps when you still have healthy natural teeth remaining.
Partial dentures typically use metal or tooth-colored clasps to anchor to your existing teeth, helping maintain your bite and preventing neighboring teeth from shifting. Full dentures rely on the natural contours of your gums for support, although they can also be secured with dental implants for greater stability.
During your consultation, we'll determine which option offers the best function, appearance, and long-term oral health.
How long do dentures last?
Most dentures last between 5 and 10 years, although this varies depending on normal wear, changes in your jawbone, and how well they're cared for.
Even high-quality dentures gradually lose their fit because the jawbone naturally shrinks after teeth are lost. As this occurs, dentures may become loose, making eating and speaking more difficult.
Routine dental visits allow us to monitor the fit of your dentures and recommend adjustments, relines, or replacement when necessary.
How often should dentures be replaced?
While dentures are durable, they aren't designed to last forever. Most patients need replacement dentures every 5 to 10 years due to normal wear and changes in the shape of the jaw.
Signs it's time for replacement include:
Loose or unstable dentures
Difficulty chewing
Frequent sore spots
Cracks or worn teeth
Changes in facial appearance
Replacing worn dentures helps restore comfort, chewing ability, and a more youthful appearance.
Why do dentures become loose over time?
After teeth are removed, the jawbone naturally begins to shrink because it no longer receives stimulation from tooth roots. As the bone changes shape, dentures that once fit well gradually become loose.
Loose dentures may slip while talking, make eating difficult, or cause sore spots on the gums.
Depending on your situation, a denture reline, new dentures, or implant-supported dentures may provide the best solution.
Can dentures be relined instead of replaced?
Yes. A denture reline reshapes the inside surface of your denture so it better fits your gums after they've changed over time.
Relines are often recommended when the denture teeth and base remain in good condition but the fit has become loose. If the denture is cracked, heavily worn, or several years old, replacing it may be a better long-term option.
We'll examine your dentures and recommend the most appropriate solution.
How do I clean my dentures?
Proper cleaning helps keep your dentures looking their best while reducing bacteria and odors.
Each day, you should:
Remove and rinse your dentures after meals.
Brush them gently using a denture brush and non-abrasive denture cleanser.
Soak them overnight in a denture-cleaning solution if recommended.
Brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth.
Avoid using hot water, bleach, or abrasive toothpaste, as these can damage your dentures.
Can I sleep with my dentures in?
Most dentists recommend removing dentures while you sleep.
Taking them out overnight gives your gums time to rest and reduces the buildup of bacteria that can contribute to infections such as denture stomatitis. It also allows you to properly clean both your dentures and your mouth.
There may be temporary situations—such as immediately after receiving new dentures—when your dentist asks you to wear them overnight. Be sure to follow your personalized instructions.
What foods can I eat with dentures?
Most patients can enjoy a wide variety of foods after adjusting to their dentures.
When you're first learning to wear dentures, start with softer foods like yogurt, eggs, mashed potatoes, pasta, and cooked vegetables. As you become more comfortable, you can gradually add firmer foods.
It's often helpful to:
Cut food into smaller pieces.
Chew evenly on both sides of your mouth.
Avoid extremely sticky or hard foods if they cause discomfort.
Patients with implant-supported dentures typically enjoy greater chewing ability than those wearing traditional removable dentures.
Will dentures affect my speech?
It's normal for dentures to temporarily affect speech while your mouth adjusts.
Some patients notice slight changes when pronouncing certain words or sounds. Practicing by reading aloud, speaking slowly, and repeating challenging words usually helps your tongue adapt quickly.
Most people become comfortable speaking with their dentures within a few weeks.
If speech problems continue, your dentures may need adjustment.
Why do dentures make me gag?
A gagging sensation can occur when you're first adjusting to new dentures or if the denture doesn't fit properly.
Common causes include:
A denture extending too far toward the back of the mouth.
Loose dentures that shift during use.
Increased saliva production during the adjustment period.
Anxiety or heightened gag reflex.
If gagging continues after your adjustment period, we'll evaluate the fit and make any necessary modifications.
Can broken dentures be repaired?
Yes. Many chipped, cracked, or fractured dentures can be professionally repaired.
However, it's important not to attempt repairs using household glue or over-the-counter repair kits, as these materials may damage the denture and aren't safe for use in the mouth.
If your denture breaks, contact our office as soon as possible. We'll evaluate whether it can be repaired or if replacement is the better option.
How much do dentures cost?
The cost of dentures depends on several factors, including the type of denture, materials used, whether extractions are needed, and whether dental implants are part of your treatment.
Traditional removable dentures generally cost less than implant-supported dentures, but implant options often provide greater stability and long-term function.
During your consultation, we'll explain your treatment options, review insurance benefits if applicable, and discuss financing options to help make your care affordable.
How long does it take to get new dentures?
The timeline varies depending on your treatment needs.
For patients who already have healed gums, traditional dentures often require several appointments over a few weeks. If teeth need to be extracted first, healing time may extend the overall process unless immediate dentures are planned.
Throughout treatment, we'll ensure your dentures fit comfortably and provide a natural appearance before they're finalized.
What should I do if my dentures no longer fit?
Loose dentures shouldn't be ignored.
Ill-fitting dentures can cause sore spots, difficulty chewing, speech problems, and changes in facial appearance. Continuing to wear poorly fitting dentures may also accelerate bone loss.
Schedule an evaluation if your dentures begin moving, clicking, or causing discomfort. Depending on their condition, we may recommend a reline, adjustment, replacement, or an upgrade to implant-supported dentures for improved stability and comfort.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
You may be a good candidate for dentures if you:
Are missing multiple or all of your teeth
Want to restore your ability to eat and speak comfortably
Have worn, loose, or uncomfortable dentures
Are looking to improve your smile, confidence, and oral health
The best way to determine which denture option is right for you is with a personalized consultation.
Schedule an appointment with Cumming Dentures & Implants to discuss your goals, evaluate your oral health, and receive a customized treatment plan designed to restore your smile and quality of life.