Dentures in El Paso, TX
General Dentistry is all about smiles, and having a confident, healthy, beautiful smile is important even for patients wearing dentures. Our practice provides personalized denture services that meet the needs and comfort levels of our patients. All of our patients are unique and we create one-of-a-kind dentures that feel good and look natural.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are natural-looking replacement teeth that are removable. There are two types of dentures: full and partial.
Full Dentures
Full Dentures are given to patients when all of the natural teeth have been removed. Conventional full dentures are placed after the gum tissue has healed, which can take several months. Immediate full dentures are placed immediately after the teeth have been removed and may require frequent adjustments during the first couple of months of use.
Partial Dentures
Partial Dentures consist of fake teeth attached to either an acylic (gum color) base or a metal frame that fits in between your natural teeth and are used to fill in where permanent teeth have been removed. Partial dentures are considered a removable alternative to bridges.
How Do I Know if Dentures Are the Right Choice for Me?
Dentures are not for everyone. If you’re interested in learning more about dentures and want to know if they are the right choice for you, please schedule an appointment. Our team will be happy to answer any questions you might have, and can determine the best course of treatment for your ongoing dental health.
Caring for Your Dentures
Dentures, just like natural teeth, require daily maintenance to stay clean and keep bacteria from growing inside of your mouth. Keep your dentures clean and your smile healthy:
- When handling your dentures, stand over a clean, folded towel or a sink full of water. This way, if you accidentally drop your dentures, they are less likely to break.
- Your dentures are not immune from plaque and tartar build-up, so it’s important that you brush your dentures every day. To brush your dentures, use a soft-bristled brush and gently brush the surfaces of the dentures, being careful not to break or bend the plastic. Between brushings, it’s important to rinse your dentures after each meal.
- Use a gentle cleanser to clean your dentures. Many toothpastes, household cleaners, and mouthwashes can be too hard on your dentures, so it is recommended that you use a mild hand or dish soap to get your dentures clean. Be sure to check for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval to choose products that are safe for your dentures, or ask your dentist about which products may be best for you.
- When you are not wearing your dentures, they need to be kept moist. Dentures that are not kept in a denture cleaning solution or water can dry out, lose their shape, or even crack and break. Certain styles of dentures require certain soaking solutions, so be sure to ask your El Paso dentist which solution is best for you.
- Even if you have a full set of dentures, it’s important to keep your gums and tongue clean. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean your gums and tongue every day.
If by chance your dentures do break, please contact our practice and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Broken dentures that don’t fit properly can cause irritation to your gums and mouth. Also, remember to continue scheduling regular dental checkups every six months to make sure that your smile stays healthy for many years to come.
FAQs About Dentures
Q. How long do dentures last and when should they be replaced?
A. Dentures typically last 5 to 10 years, depending on how well they are cared for and how much your mouth changes over time. As your gums and jawbone naturally shift, dentures may begin to feel loose or uncomfortable. If you notice irritation, difficulty chewing, or changes in fit, it may be time for a reline, adjustment, or replacement. Regular dental checkups can help ensure your dentures remain comfortable, functional, and supportive for your oral health.
Q. How do I care for my dentures?
A. Daily cleaning is essential: remove and rinse dentures after eating. Use a soft-bristled denture brush or soft toothbrush with a non-abrasive cleanser (not regular toothpaste) to clean all surfaces.
At night, dentures should be soaked in water or a denture-cleaning solution to keep them from drying out or losing shape.
Also — maintain oral hygiene: clean your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth twice a day to prevent plaque buildup and gum issues.
Q. Can I sleep with my dentures on?
A. Dentists generally recommend removing dentures at night. Wearing them continuously can irritate gums and soft tissues, and may increase the risk of sores or infections.
Give your gums and jaw a rest, and soak dentures overnight in water or a denture solution.
Q. When should I see the dentist after getting dentures?
A. Regular check-ups—typically every 6 months—are recommended after getting dentures to ensure they continue to fit properly and that your gums and other soft tissues remain healthy. If your dentures become loose, cause pain, chip, crack, or if you notice persistent sores or irritation, you should visit your dentist right away for an adjustment, reline, or replacement.
Q. Are dentures painful?
A. You may experience some initial discomfort, pressure, or soreness while your mouth adapts to new dentures, but this typically improves within a few days to weeks. If pain continues or the dentures don’t seem to fit properly, it’s important to see your dentist, as an adjustment, relining, or remake may be needed.
Q. Will dentures look natural?
A. Yes — dentures are custom-made to closely resemble natural teeth in shape, size, and color, allowing them to blend seamlessly with your facial features and smile. If only some teeth are missing, partial dentures can also be crafted to match and harmonize with your existing natural teeth for an even more natural appearance.
Q. How long do dentures last?
A. With proper care, dentures typically last 5–10 years, but natural changes in your jawbone and gum tissue over time can affect their fit. If your dentures become loose, uncomfortable, or begin to irritate your mouth, a reline or full replacement may be needed to restore comfort and function.