Dentures and Partial Dentures

Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, either upper or lower, or both. They rest on the gum tissue and are held in place through suction, adhesive, or in some cases, implant support. Full dentures are the appropriate option when all remaining teeth in an arch have been lost or need to be extracted.

Partial dentures fill in the gaps when some natural teeth remain. They attach to existing teeth using clasps or precision attachments and are designed to blend in with what’s already there. Beyond aesthetics, partials serve an important structural function: they prevent the remaining teeth from drifting into the spaces left by missing ones, which can affect your bite and jaw alignment over time.

For patients who want more stability than a traditional removable denture provides, implant-supported options are worth discussing. Implants placed in the jawbone anchor the denture securely, which eliminates the movement and slippage that some patients find difficult to manage with conventional dentures.

A comprehensive exam to evaluate the health of your remaining teeth, gums, and bone structure

Digital impressions taken using our intraoral scanner, which produces more accurate models than traditional trays

A fitting appointment where we evaluate the fit, bite, and appearance, and make any necessary adjustments

The timeline varies depending on whether extractions are involved and whether you opt for immediate or conventional dentures. We walk through all of that during your initial evaluation, so you know what to expect before committing to anything.

This is a distinction that often comes up and is worth understanding. Immediate dentures are placed the same day teeth are extracted, so you’re never without teeth during the healing process. The trade-off is that as your gums heal and change shape, the fit will need to be adjusted or the denture may need to be relined. Conventional dentures are made after the gums have fully healed, which typically takes several months, and tend to fit more precisely from the start.

Dr. Michael M. Bohn discusses both options with patients who are facing extractions so you can make an informed decision based on your priorities, timeline, and budget.

There’s an adjustment period with any new denture, and it helps to know that upfront. Speaking and eating may feel different at first, and some soreness in the gum tissue is normal as it adapts to the appliance. Most patients find that within a few weeks, things feel significantly more natural.

Remove and clean your denture daily, and take it out at night to give your gum tissue a rest

Come back in if something is causing consistent irritation. Minor adjustments can make a major difference in comfort

How long do dentures last?

With proper care, dentures typically last five to ten years before they need to be replaced or significantly relined. As the jawbone changes shape over time, the fit of the denture changes too, which is why regular checkups matter even after you have a full set.

Will my dentures look natural?

Yes. Modern materials and precise fabrication techniques produce results that look far more realistic than older denture styles. We match the shape and shade to suit your face and preferences.

Can I sleep in my dentures?

It’s generally recommended to remove dentures at night. Continuous wear doesn’t allow the gum tissue to rest and can accelerate bone loss in some cases. Soaking them overnight also helps maintain the appliance's shape.

What if my denture breaks or stops fitting properly?

Contact us as soon as possible. Ill-fitting dentures can cause sore spots and accelerate bone resorption. We can assess whether a reline, repair, or replacement is the right course of action.

Are partial dentures as effective as full dentures?

They serve different purposes, so the comparison isn’t straightforward. Partials work well when healthy, natural teeth remain to support and anchor them. The key is making sure they fit properly and are maintained consistently.

Dentures and partial dentures in Fresno have come a long way, and the right fit can genuinely change how you eat, speak, and feel day to day. If you’re dealing with significant tooth loss or have questions about which option makes the most sense for you, call our office and schedule an evaluation. We’ll give you a clear picture of your options and what each one involves.