Dentures in Fresno, CA

Missing teeth can affect much more than the appearance of your smile. They can make chewing more difficult, affect speech, change the way your bite feels, and influence your confidence in everyday situations.

At Milburn Dental, we provide dentures in Fresno, CA for patients who are missing some or all of their natural teeth. Depending on your individual oral health and treatment goals, dentures may help restore chewing function, support your appearance, and replace missing teeth.

Dentures are available in different forms, including complete dentures and partial dentures. Your dentist can evaluate your teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health to determine which options may be appropriate for you.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding oral structures.

Depending on how many teeth are missing, dentures may be used to replace:

• Several missing teeth
• Most of the teeth in an arch
• All teeth in the upper arch
• All teeth in the lower arch
• Teeth that need to be removed because they cannot be restored

Dentures are custom designed to fit the patient’s mouth and are intended to provide a combination of function and appearance.

What Types of Dentures Are Available?

The appropriate type of denture depends on how many teeth you have remaining and the condition of your teeth, gums, and supporting structures.

Common options include complete dentures, partial dentures, immediate dentures, and implant-supported solutions.

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures are designed to replace all or most of the teeth in an upper or lower arch.

They may be appropriate for patients who have lost all of their natural teeth in an arch or whose remaining teeth cannot be predictably restored.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain.

They fill spaces created by missing teeth while using the remaining teeth and supporting tissues for stability.

Partial dentures may help restore chewing function and improve the appearance of your smile.

Immediate Dentures

Immediate dentures may be placed shortly after teeth are removed.

Because the gums and underlying tissues can change as they heal, immediate dentures may require adjustments during the healing process.

Your dentist can explain whether immediate dentures are appropriate for your individual situation.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Some patients may be candidates for dentures supported by dental implants.

Implants can provide additional support and stability compared with traditional removable dentures in appropriate cases.

Learn more about:

Dental Implants in Fresno, CA:
https://milburndental.com/dental-services/cosmetic-dentistry/dental-implants/

Who May Need Dentures?

Dentures may be considered for patients who have lost multiple teeth or all of their teeth.

Potential reasons for considering dentures include:

• Extensive tooth loss
• Multiple missing teeth
• Teeth that cannot be restored
• Difficulty chewing because of missing teeth
• Changes in speech caused by missing teeth
• Desire to restore the appearance of the smile
• Need to replace teeth after multiple extractions

Not every patient with missing teeth needs dentures.

Other treatment options, including dental bridges or dental implants, may be appropriate depending on your individual circumstances.

Dentures vs. Dental Bridges

Dentures and bridges can both replace missing teeth, but they work differently.

A dental bridge is generally fixed in place and uses supporting teeth or other structures to hold the replacement tooth or teeth.

Dentures are generally removable and may replace several teeth or an entire arch.

Learn more about:

Dental Crowns and Bridges in Fresno:
https://milburndental.com/dental-services/family-dentistry/crowns-and-bridges/

Your dentist can evaluate your oral health and discuss the advantages and limitations of each option.

Dentures vs. Dental Implants

Dental implants and dentures are also different approaches to replacing missing teeth.

Traditional dentures are removable.

Dental implants are placed into the jawbone and can be used to support individual crowns, bridges, or implant-supported dentures.

Implant treatment may require adequate bone and healthy oral tissues, and additional procedures may sometimes be necessary.

Learn more about:

Dental Implants in Fresno:
https://milburndental.com/dental-services/cosmetic-dentistry/dental-implants/

The best option depends on your oral health, number of missing teeth, bone structure, treatment goals, and preferences.

What Happens During a Denture Consultation?

The first step is a comprehensive dental evaluation.

Your dentist may evaluate:

• Remaining teeth
• Gum health
• Jaw and bite
• Oral tissues
• Existing restorations
• Areas of missing teeth
• Overall oral health

Dental X-rays may also be recommended when appropriate.

Learn more about:

Dental X-Rays in Fresno, CA:
https://milburndental.com/dental-services/general-dentistry/x-rays/

After the examination, your dentist can explain the available treatment options and discuss what type of denture may be appropriate.

How Are Dentures Made?

The denture process varies depending on the type of denture and your individual needs.

Generally, the process may involve:

1. An oral examination
2. Discussion of your treatment goals
3. Impressions or digital information about your mouth
4. Selection of appropriate tooth shape and color
5. Creation of the denture
6. Fitting and adjustment
7. Follow-up appointments as needed

The goal is to create a denture that provides an appropriate fit, function, and natural-looking appearance.

How Long Does It Take to Get Dentures?

The timeline varies depending on the type of denture, your oral health, whether teeth need to be removed, laboratory processing, and whether healing is required.

Traditional dentures may require several appointments for examination, impressions, fitting, and adjustments.

Immediate dentures can be planned around tooth extraction but may require additional adjustments as your gums and jaw change during healing.

Your dentist can provide a more specific timeline after evaluating your situation.

Will New Dentures Feel Comfortable?

There may be an adjustment period when you first receive new dentures.

You may initially notice:

• A different feeling in your mouth
• Increased awareness of the denture
• Changes in speech
• Difficulty chewing certain foods
• Increased saliva production
• Mild areas of pressure

These issues often improve as you become accustomed to your new dentures.

However, persistent pain, significant irritation, or a denture that repeatedly moves should be evaluated by your dentist.

A denture that causes ongoing discomfort may need an adjustment.

Will Dentures Affect the Way I Eat?

New dentures may require some time to adapt to.

During the adjustment period, many patients find it easier to begin with softer foods and smaller bites.

Chew slowly and try to use both sides of your mouth when appropriate.

As you become more comfortable with your dentures, you can gradually return to a wider variety of foods based on your dentist’s recommendations.

If you continue to have difficulty chewing, your dentist can evaluate the fit and function of the dentures.

Will Dentures Affect My Speech?

Some patients notice temporary changes in speech when they first receive new dentures.

Your tongue and oral muscles need time to adapt to the new appliance.

Reading aloud and practicing speaking can help you become accustomed to the dentures.

If speech problems continue or the dentures feel unstable, contact your dental office for an evaluation.

How Should I Clean My Dentures?

Dentures need regular cleaning just like natural teeth require daily oral hygiene.

General denture-care recommendations include:

• Remove and rinse dentures after eating when appropriate.
• Clean them daily with a denture-safe cleaning method.
• Use a soft denture brush or another appropriate cleaning tool.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for denture-cleaning products.
• Handle dentures carefully when cleaning them.
• Clean your gums, tongue, and remaining natural teeth.
• Store dentures according to your dentist’s recommendations when they are not being worn.

Avoid using cleaning products that could damage the denture material.

If you are uncertain about which cleanser to use, ask your dental team for specific recommendations.

Can I Brush Dentures With Regular Toothpaste?

Many conventional toothpastes are designed for natural tooth enamel and can be abrasive to some denture materials.

For this reason, patients should generally use a denture-cleaning product recommended for their type of denture rather than automatically using regular toothpaste.

Your dentist can recommend an appropriate cleaning method based on your specific denture.

Should I Sleep With My Dentures?

Your dentist can provide personalized instructions about when to wear and remove your dentures.

Many patients are advised to remove removable dentures while sleeping so the oral tissues can rest.

When dentures are removed, they should be stored appropriately so they do not become damaged or contaminated.

Follow the specific instructions provided by your dental team.

Do Dentures Need to Be Adjusted?

Yes. Dentures may need adjustments over time.

Your gums and jaw can change after tooth loss, and the fit of a removable denture can change as the underlying tissues change.

You should contact your dentist if your dentures:

• Feel loose
• Cause sore spots
• Rub against your gums
• Move excessively while speaking
• Make chewing difficult
• Cause persistent discomfort

Do not attempt to permanently modify your dentures yourself.

Professional adjustment can help determine whether the denture can be modified or whether a replacement may eventually be appropriate.

What If My Dentures Break?

If a denture cracks, breaks, or becomes damaged, contact your dental office.

Do not use household glue or attempt a permanent repair yourself.

Improper repairs can change the fit of the denture and potentially cause additional problems.

Bring the damaged denture to your appointment so it can be evaluated.

Depending on its condition and age, your dentist may recommend professional repair, adjustment, or replacement.

How Long Do Dentures Last?

Dentures are designed for long-term use, but they do not last forever.

Their useful life can vary depending on:

• Material
• Fit
• Oral changes
• Daily wear
• Cleaning and maintenance
• Changes in your gums and jaw
• Damage or fractures
• Overall oral health

Even if a denture still appears functional, changes in the underlying tissues may affect how well it fits.

Regular dental examinations can help determine whether your dentures continue to function appropriately.

Can Dentures Improve My Smile?

Yes. Dentures can replace missing teeth and may significantly change the appearance of your smile.

The appearance of a denture depends on factors such as:

• Tooth shape
• Tooth color
• Arrangement of the artificial teeth
• Facial structure
• Gum-colored materials
• The patient’s remaining natural teeth

Your dentist can discuss aesthetic considerations during the treatment-planning process.

Can Dentures Help With Chewing?

Replacing missing teeth can help restore chewing function.

However, adapting to removable dentures may take time.

Patients may initially need to modify the types and sizes of foods they eat while learning how to use their new dentures.

If you continue to have difficulty chewing after the adjustment period, your dentist can evaluate the fit and function of your dentures.

Dentures and Oral Hygiene

Wearing dentures does not mean that you can stop caring for your mouth.

If you still have natural teeth, those teeth require normal brushing and interdental cleaning.

You should also maintain the health of your gums and oral tissues.

Good oral hygiene can help reduce plaque accumulation and support the health of your remaining teeth and gums.

Learn more about:

Oral Hygiene Education in Fresno:
https://milburndental.com/dental-services/general-dentistry/oral-hygiene-education/

Dentures and Routine Dental Visits

Patients who wear dentures should continue to receive regular dental evaluations.

Your dentist can evaluate:

• Denture fit
• Oral tissues
• Remaining natural teeth
• Gum health
• Bite
• Signs of irritation
• Changes in your mouth

Regular dental care is especially important if you have remaining natural teeth.

Learn more about:

Routine Dental Cleanings in Fresno:
https://milburndental.com/dental-services/general-dentistry/routine-cleanings/

What If My Dentures Become Loose?

Loose dentures may result from changes in the gums or jaw, normal wear, or changes in the denture itself.

If your dentures move excessively, cause discomfort, or make it difficult to chew, schedule an evaluation.

Depending on the situation, your dentist may recommend:

• Adjustment
• Relining
• Repair
• Replacement
• Evaluation for another tooth-replacement option

Do not rely on excessive amounts of adhesive to compensate for a poorly fitting denture.

Can I Get Dentures After Tooth Extraction?

Yes. Dentures may be part of a treatment plan following tooth extraction.

In some situations, immediate dentures can be planned to replace teeth around the time of extraction.

However, healing can change the shape of the gums and supporting tissues, so adjustments or a later replacement denture may be necessary.

Your dentist can discuss the expected process before extraction.

Learn more about:

Oral Surgery in Fresno:
https://milburndental.com/dental-services/family-dentistry/oral-surgery/

Dentures After Multiple Tooth Loss

When several teeth are missing or cannot be restored, dentures may provide one option for replacing them.

However, the best treatment depends on the condition of your remaining teeth and supporting structures.

Depending on your circumstances, your dentist may discuss:

• Partial dentures
• Complete dentures
• Dental bridges
• Dental implants
• Implant-supported restorations

The goal is to find a treatment that balances oral health, function, appearance, and your individual needs.

Dentures and Dental Implants

Some patients who want greater denture stability may be interested in implant-supported options.

Dental implants can provide support for a removable or fixed restoration in appropriately selected patients.

However, implant treatment involves surgical placement and requires an evaluation of your oral health and supporting bone.

Learn more about:

Dental Implants in Fresno, CA:
https://milburndental.com/dental-services/cosmetic-dentistry/dental-implants/

A consultation can help determine whether implant treatment may be appropriate for you.

Dentures for Families in Fresno

Tooth loss can affect patients at different stages of life.

Older adults may need dentures after extensive tooth loss, while younger patients may require tooth replacement following trauma or significant dental disease.

Milburn Dental provides family dental care and can evaluate missing teeth as part of a comprehensive oral health plan.

Learn more about:

Family Dentistry in Fresno, CA:
https://milburndental.com/dental-services/family-dentistry/

When Should I See a Dentist About My Dentures?

Schedule an appointment if you experience:

• Persistent denture discomfort
• Gum irritation
• Sore spots
• Loose dentures
• Difficulty chewing
• Difficulty speaking
• A broken denture
• A cracked denture
• A significant change in fit
• Changes in your oral tissues
• Pain around remaining natural teeth

Do not continue wearing a damaged or painful denture without having it evaluated.

Why Choose Milburn Dental for Dentures in Fresno?

At Milburn Dental, we understand that replacing missing teeth is about more than simply filling gaps.

A successful denture treatment plan should consider your oral health, comfort, chewing function, appearance, and long-term dental needs.

Our dental team can evaluate your situation and discuss appropriate options, including:

• Complete dentures
• Partial dentures
• Immediate dentures
• Dental bridges
• Dental implants
• Other restorative treatments

Our goal is to help you understand your options so you can make an informed decision about replacing missing teeth.

Explore our complete:

Dental Services in Fresno, CA:
https://milburndental.com/dental-services/

Restore Your Smile With Dentures in Fresno

If missing teeth are making it difficult to eat, speak, smile, or feel confident about your appearance, dentures may be one option worth discussing.

Milburn Dental can evaluate your oral health and explain whether dentures, bridges, implants, or another restorative solution may be appropriate for you.

Milburn Dental
6721 N Milburn Ave Ste 101
Fresno, CA 93722
Phone: (559) 825-0990

Request an appointment:

https://milburndental.com/contact/

Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures:

1. What should I expect on my first visit?
   Our Dentist’s goal during the first visit is to assess your condition to see if you’re a good candidate for dentures and give you a reasonable expectation of the function, appearance and cost of those dentures. Our Fresno Dentist will perform an examination of your mouth as well as a general health assessment. They will ask if you’re under a Physician’s care or if you have any health conditions or allergies that may affect the denture process. Your information will not be shared with anyone and is taken in the strictest confidence. After the examination, our Dentist will give you a detailed overview of the results you can expect from new dentures, including an approximate cost.
2. What is the average cost of dentures?
   Denture fees vary widely based on many factors including the complexity of your particular treatment and the time required to accomplish the treatment. The best way to determine the fees is to contact our Fresno Dental Office so we can discuss the payment and care you may need.
3. What different types of dentures are available? There are four main types of dentures to consider.
   Complete Dentures: When most people think of dentures, they tend to picture complete dentures, which are full replacements for all of your teeth. This can be a full set of either upper or lower teeth, or a combined set for your entire mouth.
   Complete dentures have to be properly fitted for optimum comfort and can last 5 to 10 years given proper care. These can typically be made six months after tooth extraction, once your gums have had time to heal.
   Immediate Dentures: Immediate dentures are put into place immediately after tooth extraction and are used as a temporary set while your bone and tissue stabilize following tooth extraction. There are a number of benefits to immediate dentures, although they may require frequent adjustments while your jaw heals into place.
   Overdentures: Overdentures are similar to complete dentures. The difference is that not all teeth are extracted and one or more natural teeth are used for support. This type of denture provides greater stabilization during chewing. Overdentures can be more costly than complete dentures and usually require more appointments to get them properly fitted in place.
   Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are designed to correct the gaps in your smile when only some of your teeth are missing. Metal attachments anchor the dentures to your natural teeth. Partial dentures maintain tooth alignment by preventing your remaining teeth from shifting. Partial dentures can also help you prevent further tooth loss due to decay or gum disease.
4. When will I receive my dentures?
   The length of time it takes to receive a completed set of dentures depends on your individual condition. Our Dentist will give you an estimate based on your individual situation.Our Dentist needs time to ensure the new set is properly crafted and fitted, but they also understand your desire to have them fast, and they will do their best to balance these two factors.
5. Do I have to wear denture adhesives?
   Dentures are custom-designed for a comfortable and good fit for you. As a result, they often don’t require the regular use of an adhesive. Poor-fitting dentures must be checked by your dentist as soon as possible to eliminate discomfort and the potential for irritation.
6. Will the dentures fit properly?
   Our Dentist will skillfully assess your personal physical characteristics to create a pair of customized dentures that will support and protect your delicate gums; allow you to speak, chew and use your mouth naturally; blend in with existing teeth; and compliment your natural facial structure and characteristics. The base materials, tooth materials, and colors of teeth are all chosen based on the shape of your face, your natural complexion, and the presence of existing teeth, and are completely unique to you.Our Dentist is a highly skilled craftsman, and you can be sure your new dentures not only fit well, but look natural, complimenting your existing facial features.
   Well crafted dentures are designed to feel as natural as possible in your mouth, however there may be a brief adjustment period. Most patients find that after a week of continuous wear, the oral cavity has adjusted to the new teeth perfectly, although it can take a bit longer for others. Be patient and continue to wear your dentures. They will feel as if you’ve been wearing them forever in no time.
7. When can I wear my dentures?
   This is personal preference, however we recommend that you wear your dentures as much as possible. It is widely agreed upon that you should sleep without your dentures, however if you choose to sleep with them it is important to keep your denture extremely clean. Remove them at least once a day and brush the tissues underlying the dentures with a soft tooth brush. This removes any plaque build up along with any food debris; it also stimulates the blood vessels which is an essential part of healthy tissue.
8. Will dentures affect the way I eat?
   Like anything new, you need time to adapt to your new denture. Chewing is one of the skills that needs to be adapted when you receive either replacement dentures or you are first dentures. You can help yourself accommodate by taking smaller portions and chewing slowly and avoiding sticky or tough foods for a little while. You should soon see an improvement due to the new dentures being more efficient as the chewing surfaces have less wear.
9. How do I care for my dentures?
   Whitening: It is not possible to whiten dentures like natural teeth because dentures are made of plastic. To minimize staining, properly clean your dentures daily to remove food and plaque bacteria. Brushing with a denture brush or soft toothbrush will prevent dentures from becoming permanently stained and keep your mouth healthy. Moisten the brush and apply a non-abrasive soap or denture paste (regular toothpaste is too abrasive). Brush every surface, inside and out, scrubbing gently. A variety of over-the-counter denture cleanser products may be safely used (by following the manufacturer’s instructions) to remove most stains. Do not use bleach on your dentures unless our dentist in Fresno, CA or prosthodontist gives you special instructions on using bleach. Dilute household bleach can be used to clean and disinfect your dentures, but don’t use bleach until you see your prosthodontist for instructions. More stubborn stains may require removal by your prosthodontist.
   Brushing: Do not brush your dentures with normal toothpaste. Toothpaste are designed to be used on teeth, and they often contain materials and chemicals that help whiten and strengthen teeth but may harm dentures, which are made of a very durable plastic. Even though the plastic is strong, it is not as strong as the enamel of teeth and may be scratched by using toothpaste to clean your dentures. You should use a dishwashing liquid and a special denture brush to clean your dentures by hand every day. After rinsing them thoroughly, soak your dentures in water-based cleaning solution overnight.
   Moreover, it is advisable to rinse your dentures and your mouth after every meal however at least once a day the dentures should be brushed to remove any plaque accumulation and food debris, and then use a denture soak. It is also advisable to brush your gums to remove any debris including any residual dental adhesive.
   Repairing broken dentures: The best solution is to return to the prosthodontist who made your dentures and have the cracked denture repaired professionally. It may seem easy to fix, but it is important that the repair is done correctly to prevent problems with chewing and to avoid any sore spots. The prosthodontist also needs to check the denture and adjust it after it is repaired. The denture may be too old and may no longer fit closely to your gums, and you may need a new denture.
10. What kind of denture cleaner should I use?
    There are many brands of denture cleaners on the market and what brand to use is usually down to personal preference. However, it should be noted that household bleach and everyday toothpaste can harm the denture. If you notice a lot a tartar or plaque buildup you may also use white vinegar to soak your dentures and then brush off any residual build up. Remember that you can have your denture professionally cleaned by a Dentist in a matter of minutes.
11. How often should I visit my Denturist after getting my dentures?
    You should have a check-up with your Dentist once a year for optimal performance of your dentures. During this annual visit, you Dentist can spot any issues or abnormalities that need to be taken care of, and they can recommend you to a specialist should you require further medical attention.