Complete & partial dentures
For a whole jaw of missing teeth, or a few gaps between the teeth you still have.
A complete denture replaces every tooth on the top or bottom jaw and rests on the gums, held by its fit and, on the top jaw, by suction. A partial denture fills the gaps between the teeth you still have and holds on to them, so you can chew on both sides again.
Signs you might need dentures.
- Every tooth on one jaw is gone, or the few left are too loose or broken to keep.
- Several teeth are missing and you have started chewing on one side only.
- A gap is too long for a bridge, or the teeth on either side are too weak to hold one.
- An old denture is loose, clicks when you talk, or rubs a sore spot.
- Implants are not an option for you right now, because of your health or the bone.
Dentures, step by step.
-
01
Exam and X-rays
Dr. Malik checks your gums, the bone and any teeth you still have, and whether any need treating before a denture is made around them. Bring your medication list; he has long experience with seniors and complex medical histories.
-
02
Choosing the kind
A complete denture is acrylic teeth on an acrylic base. A partial can be built on a thin metal frame, made all in acrylic, or made in a flexible resin with gum-coloured clasps, and each fits, wears and costs differently.
-
03
Impressions and bite
We take moulds of your mouth and record how your jaws meet. The lab uses these to set the teeth in a wax trial denture.
-
04
Try-in
You try the wax version and check the fit, the tooth colour and how it feels when you talk. Changes happen now, before anything is finalized.
-
05
Fitting and adjustments
Dr. Malik checks the bite and the pressure points and shows you how to clean the denture. Sore spots in the first weeks are normal and take a short visit to trim, and as the gums change over the years a reline refits the base.
How we bill dentures.
A complete or partial denture usually takes four or five visits over several weeks, plus short visits to adjust it. A metal-framed partial costs more than an all-acrylic one. Many dental plans cover part of dentures and relines, usually with a limit on how often they will pay for a new one.
Ask us what it will costComplete & partial dentures, answered.
How long does it take to get used to dentures?
Usually a few weeks. Soft food cut small, and reading aloud at home, speed it up.
Should I take my dentures out at night?
Yes. Your gums need the rest, and the denture needs to soak in water or a cleaning solution so it does not dry out and warp.
Will I be without teeth while the denture is made?
Not necessarily. An immediate denture can be made before your remaining teeth come out and fitted straight after, then relined once the gums have healed and shrunk.
Can implants stop a denture from moving?
Yes. Two or more implants in the jaw let a complete denture snap into place so it does not slide when you eat. Dr. Malik places the implants himself, so both stages happen at the same office.
