Dentures FAQ's
Losing teeth can feel overwhelming, and if you’re considering dentures in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME, you probably have more questions than answers. At Gentle Dental, we’re here to simplify the process. Whether you're getting dentures for the first time or replacing an old set, we want you to feel informed, confident, and in control of your oral health.
Dentures are an excellent solution for missing teeth and teeth with extensive damage – they’re strong, reliable, and can be custom-fit for anyone! Dentures are used for more than just looks: they’ll also fully restore the functionality of your teeth and mouth. If you’re interested in getting dentures, don’t hesitate to contact us at one of our offices
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are custom-made prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. They restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile comfortably. Depending on your needs, dentures can replace all teeth (full dentures) or just a few (partial dentures). Think of them as a personalized solution to bring back your smile—and the function that goes with it.
At Gentle Dental, we guarantee that your custom-made dentures will match the look and feel of your natural teeth! The process of getting your dentures starts with an oral examination, where our team of dentists will help you determine if dentures are the right restorative dentistry solution for you. Once it’s been decided that dentures are the right option for you, our team of dentists will measure and take molds of your teeth so we can begin creating your custom-fit dentures. At your next appointment, we’ll ensure that your custom dentures are a perfect fit and that you’ll be able to use them without any issues. If necessary, we can always make adjustments! Your dentures may take a few weeks to get used to, as they can be a bit uncomfortable at first when eating and speaking. Once you’re used to your new dentures, your ability to chew, speak, and smile will be as good as new!
What’s The Difference Between Full And Partial Dentures?
Full dentures replace all teeth in the upper, lower, or both arches of the mouth.
Partial dentures fill in the gaps left by several missing teeth, anchoring to your natural ones for support.
We’ll help you determine the right type based on your oral health, remaining teeth, and long-term goals.
How Do Dentures Stay In Place?
Full dentures rely on suction, your natural gum shape, or adhesives to stay in place. Partial dentures use metal clasps or precision attachments that connect to your natural teeth.
For added stability, we also offer implant-supported dentures, which attach to dental implants placed in your jaw for a more secure fit.
Will Dentures Look Natural?
Absolutely. Modern dentures are a far cry from the bulky versions you might picture from decades past. Today’s materials and design techniques allow us to create dentures that match your facial structure, gum color, and natural tooth shade.
The result? A smile that looks like you, just healthier and more complete.
Are Dentures Comfortable?
It’s normal to go through a short adjustment period when you first start wearing dentures. You may notice minor soreness or changes in how you speak and chew, but these usually fade as your mouth adapts.
We’ll work closely with you to ensure a comfortable fit and make any needed adjustments along the way.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
Most dentures last 5 to 10 years, depending on how well you care for them and how your mouth changes over time. Your gums and jawbone can shift, which may require relining or replacing your dentures to maintain a good fit.
Regular dental visits help us monitor these changes and keep your dentures functioning at their best.
How Do I Clean My Dentures?
Just like with natural teeth, oral hygiene is extremely important with dentures. Even without natural teeth, your gums can still develop problems if they’re not regularly cleaned. You should gently brush your gums twice daily with toothpaste. The dentures themselves should also be cleaned regularly, either by brushing them with toothpaste or by using a denture cleaning solution. If your dentures have been damaged or need repair in any way, you should contact us immediately! Keeping your dentures clean is essential for your oral health. Here's how:
- Remove and rinse after eating
- Brush daily with a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner
- Soak overnight in a denture solution to keep them moist and disinfected
- Rinse thoroughly before putting them back in
And don’t forget to brush your gums and tongue, too—it all contributes to a healthy mouth.
Can I Sleep In My Dentures?
Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended. Removing dentures at night gives your gums time to rest and promotes better oral hygiene. Most dentists, including us, advise taking them out overnight unless otherwise directed.
What Foods Can I Eat With Dentures?
You’ll want to start with soft foods while adjusting to your new dentures—think soups, eggs, or mashed vegetables. As you grow more comfortable, you can gradually reintroduce firmer foods.
Avoid sticky, hard, or extremely chewy foods until you’re confident in your bite. We’ll guide you through what’s best during your adjustment phase.
Will Dentures Affect My Speech?
At first, you may notice minor changes in how you pronounce certain words. This is totally normal. With a little practice—and maybe reading out loud or repeating tricky words—you’ll quickly adjust. Most patients regain normal speech within a few weeks.
Are Dentures Covered By Insurance?
Many dental insurance plans cover at least part of the cost of dentures. Our team will review your benefits, provide a clear estimate before treatment begins, and help you understand all of your financial options.
Ready To Explore Dentures? We’re Here To Help.
Whether you're missing a few teeth or need a full replacement, dentures can restore more than just your smile—they can give you back your confidence and comfort. At Gentle Dental, we’ll walk you through every step with care and clarity. If you have any questions about dentures or the process of getting them, don’t hesitate to contact us! Get in touch with us by giving us a call at any of our offices or by filling out the contact form on our website!
Call us today to schedule a denture consultation. Let’s rebuild your smile together—comfortably, naturally, and confidently.
