Are you struggling with missing teeth? Feeling self-conscious about your smile? You’re not alone. As someone who’s helped thousands of Los Angeles residents regain their confidence with full and partial dentures, I understand the impact tooth loss can have on your daily life.
I’m Dr. Nikki, and I’ve dedicated my career to helping patients like you restore their smiles with comfortable, natural-looking dentures that fit perfectly and function beautifully.
Understanding Your Denture Options
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, you have several options to consider. Let’s break down the main types of dentures available at our Los Angeles practice:
Full Dentures: Complete Smile Restoration
Full dentures are designed for patients who have lost all their teeth in either the upper arch, lower arch, or both. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, more than 36 million Americans are completely edentulous (without teeth), and 90% of these individuals wear dentures.
Types of Full Dentures:
- Conventional Full Dentures
- Placed after remaining teeth are removed and tissues have healed
- Healing period typically takes 8-12 weeks
- Most traditional option with proven results
- Immediate Full Dentures
- Placed immediately after teeth extraction
- Allows you to never be without teeth during the healing process
- May require more adjustments as gums and bone reshape during healing
- 78% of patients report significant improvement in quality of life with immediate dentures (Journal of Prosthodontics)
- Implant-Supported Full Dentures
- Anchored to dental implants for superior stability
- Prevents bone loss in the jaw (up to 25% less bone resorption in the first year compared to traditional dentures)
- No slipping or clicking when speaking or eating
- Success rate of over 95% according to dental implant statistics
Partial Dentures: Preserve Your Natural Teeth
Partial dentures are ideal if you still have some healthy natural teeth. They fill in the gaps while preserving your remaining teeth.
Types of Partial Dentures:
- Removable Partial Dentures
- Metal framework with acrylic base and replacement teeth
- Clasps attach to your natural teeth for stability
- Can be removed for cleaning and while sleeping
- More affordable option (typically $1,200-$2,500 per arch)
- Flexible Partial Dentures
- Made from flexible nylon material
- More comfortable and natural-looking than traditional metal partials
- Virtually invisible clasps
- Highly resistant to breakage
- 92% patient satisfaction rate reported in recent studies
- Precision Partial Dentures
- Uses internal attachments instead of visible clasps
- More natural appearance
- Often used in combination with crowns on adjacent teeth
- Higher-end option for those seeking premium aesthetics
The Denture Process: What to Expect
Getting dentures isn’t just about walking in and walking out with a new smile. It’s a process, and I want you to know exactly what to expect when you visit our Los Angeles office.
1. Comprehensive Consultation and Examination
First things first – we need to take a look at what we’re working with. I’ll check out your mouth, any remaining teeth, your gum health, and the structure of your jaw.
We’ll have a real conversation about:
- What’s been going on with your teeth
- What you’re hoping to achieve
- How much you’re looking to invest
- How quickly you need results
- Whether we need to pull any teeth
- If bone grafting might help your case
- Whether implants could give you better results
2. Pre-Denture Procedures
Depending on your specific situation, you might need some prep work:
- Extractions: Sometimes we need to remove problem teeth before moving forward
- Bone Grafting: If your jaw bone has deteriorated, we might need to build it back up
- Gum Disease Treatment: Healthy gums make for better denture fit and comfort
3. Impressions and Measurements
Once your mouth is ready, we’ll take detailed impressions. This isn’t the old-school goopy stuff you might remember – we use high-precision materials that capture every detail of your mouth.
We’ll also figure out:
- How your upper and lower teeth should fit together
- What size, shape, and color of teeth will look natural for you
- The best arrangement to complement your face
4. Try-In Sessions
Before we finalize anything, you’ll get to test drive your dentures. We’ll create wax models that let you see and feel how your final dentures will work. This gives us a chance to make adjustments for:
- Perfect fit and maximum comfort
- Natural appearance that matches your face
- Clear speech without whistling or clicking
- Proper bite so you can chew effectively
5. Final Fitting and Adjustments
When your custom dentures arrive (usually within 2-3 weeks), you’ll come in for your final fitting. I personally make any necessary tweaks to ensure everything feels right.
Don’t worry if things don’t feel perfect right away – about 86% of my patients need at least one adjustment as their mouth gets used to the new dentures.
Why Choose Quality Dentures?
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, quality matters. Here’s why investing in premium dentures from our Los Angeles practice makes sense:
Restored Functionality
With quality dentures, you’ll get back to enjoying life without limitations.
You’ll be able to bite into a crisp apple again. You’ll speak clearly during your next business presentation. Your face will have proper support to maintain your natural appearance.
I’ve had patients tell me they avoided certain restaurants for years because they couldn’t chew properly with their old, ill-fitting dentures. Quality dentures change that entire experience.
Enhanced Confidence
Let’s be real – missing teeth affect how you feel about yourself. I’ve seen countless patients transform not just their smiles, but their entire outlook on life after getting dentures that look natural and feel comfortable.
A study in the Journal of Prosthodontic Research found that 76% of patients reported significant improvement in self-confidence after receiving quality dentures. That’s not just about looks – it’s about feeling like yourself again.
Advanced Denture Technologies at Our Los Angeles Practice
I’ve invested in cutting-edge technology because my patients deserve the best. Here’s what sets our denture process apart:
Digital Dentures
Remember those messy impression materials that make you gag? We’ve moved beyond that. Our digital scanning technology creates incredibly precise 3D models of your mouth without the discomfort.
This means:
- We can make your dentures faster (often 60% quicker than old methods)
- They’ll fit better with fewer adjustments
- We keep a digital record so replacements are easy
- You’ll spend less time in the dental chair
Implant-Supported Options
If you’re looking for the absolute best in stability and function, we should talk about implant-supported dentures. These are game-changers for many of my patients.
With implant support, you’ll get:
- About 90% of natural chewing function (compared to just 30-50% with conventional dentures)
- Protection against bone loss in your jaw
- Freedom from messy denture adhesives
- A solution that can last decades with proper care
Traditional dentures sit on your gums. Implant-supported dentures connect to titanium posts in your jawbone, giving you a secure foundation that feels much more like natural teeth.
Caring for Your Dentures: Maximizing Longevity
I want your investment to last. Here’s how to take care of your dentures properly:
Daily Care Routine
- Remove and Rinse After Eating
- Get those food particles out to prevent staining and irritation
- Use cool or warm water – never hot (it can warp the denture)
- Brush Daily
- Use a soft denture brush (not your regular toothbrush)
- Skip the regular toothpaste – it’s too abrasive
- Clean all surfaces gently but thoroughly
- Soak Overnight
- Your dentures need to stay moist to maintain their shape
- Use a proper denture cleaner or a mild solution as recommended
- This also gives your gums a chance to rest
- Rinse Before Reinserting
- Always rinse thoroughly after soaking
- Denture cleaning solutions can irritate tissues if not rinsed off
- Handle with Care
- Place a towel in the sink when cleaning (dentures are slippery!)
- Keep away from curious kids and pets
Regular Professional Maintenance
Even the best dentures need check-ups:
- Schedule visits every 6 months
- We’ll professionally clean them to remove stubborn stains
- We’ll check the fit and make adjustments as your mouth changes
- We’ll examine your oral tissues for any issues
With proper professional care, you can extend the life of your dentures by up to 30%.
Why Choose Our Los Angeles Dental Practice for Your Dentures?
When you’re looking for dentures in Los Angeles, you have options. Here’s why my patients choose us:
Unparalleled Expertise
I’ve completed thousands of successful denture cases throughout my career. Each one taught me something valuable that I bring to your treatment. My specialized training in prosthodontics means you’re getting care from someone who understands the science and artistry of creating natural-looking teeth.
Comprehensive Care Under One Roof
From start to finish, we handle your entire treatment in our modern facility near Westwood Village. No shuttling between specialists – your entire smile restoration happens right here.
Advanced Technology
I’ve invested in the best equipment available because it leads to better results:
- 3D digital impressions capture details traditional methods miss
- In-house adjustments mean same-day service when you need it
- Computer-guided implant placement ensures optimal positioning
Personalized Attention
Your smile is unique, and your dentures should be too. We take the time to understand your specific needs and preferences. Your dentures will be customized to complement your facial features, skin tone, and even your personality.
Flexible Scheduling and Financing
Life is busy, and dental work needs to fit into your schedule:
- Same-day appointments often available
- Emergency services for denture repairs
- Multiple financing options to make quality care accessible
- We work with most major insurance providers
Beyond Dentures: Our Full Range of Services
While we excel in denture solutions, our Los Angeles dental practice offers comprehensive care including:
- Dental Implants: Permanent tooth replacement options
- Veneers: Transform your smile with porcelain facings
- Teeth Whitening: Professional brightening treatments
- Crowns and Bridges: Restore damaged or missing teeth
- Preventive Care: Cleanings and examinations
- Cosmetic Dentistry: Full smile makeovers
FAQs
How long does it take to get used to new dentures?
Most patients adapt to new dentures within 2-4 weeks. Initial discomfort, increased saliva flow, and minor speech changes are normal and temporary. About 92% of patients report feeling completely comfortable with their dentures after the adjustment period.
Are dentures worn 24 hours a day?
It’s generally recommended to remove dentures while sleeping to give your gum tissues time to rest and be exposed to the cleansing action of your tongue and saliva. However, during the initial adjustment period, you may be advised to wear them continuously for a short time.
Will dentures change how I speak?
You may experience some temporary speech changes when you first get dentures. Common issues include lisping or difficulty with certain sounds. These typically resolve within a few weeks as you adjust. Practicing reading aloud can speed up adaptation.
How long do dentures last?
With proper care, conventional dentures typically last 5-7 years before needing replacement. Implant-supported dentures can last significantly longer (15+ years), while the implants themselves can last a lifetime with good maintenance.
Will people be able to tell I’m wearing dentures?
Modern dentures are designed to look natural and blend seamlessly with your facial features. We carefully select tooth shapes, sizes, and shades that complement your appearance and look authentic. According to patient surveys, 83% report that friends and family couldn’t tell they were wearing dentures.