Losing most or all of your teeth can make daily activities like eating, speaking, and smiling difficult. Full dentures provide an effective solution for restoring both function and appearance. At Port City Dentistry in Wilmington, NC, we create custom-fitted, natural-looking dentures that give you the confidence to enjoy life again.
What Are Full Dentures?
Full dentures are removable prosthetic teeth designed to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. Whether you have lost teeth due to decay, gum disease, injury, or age, full dentures restore your smile and help maintain jaw function and facial structure.
Types of full dentures include:
- Conventional Full Dentures – Created after the remaining teeth are removed and the gum tissue heals.
- Immediate Full Dentures – Placed immediately after tooth extraction so patients don’t have to go without teeth.
- Implant-Supported Dentures – Fixed in place using dental implants, providing a more secure and stable fit.
Our dentists at Port City Dentistry will help determine which type of denture best suits your needs.
Who Needs Full Dentures?
You may need full dentures if you:
- Have lost most or all of your natural teeth.
- Experience difficulty chewing food or speaking clearly.
- Want an affordable and non-surgical solution to restore your smile.
- Are looking for a way to maintain facial structure and prevent sagging due to tooth loss.
If you are unsure whether full dentures are right for you, Dr. Jillian Wolske can assess your oral health and discuss your options.
Benefits of Full Dentures
Full dentures offer many advantages, including:
- Improved Appearance – Restores a full, natural-looking smile.
- Better Speech & Chewing Ability – Allows you to eat a wider variety of foods and speak more clearly.
- Affordable Tooth Replacement – More cost-effective than implants or bridges.
- Custom Fit for Comfort – Designed to match the shape of your gums and mouth.
With proper care, dentures can last for many years, providing a comfortable and functional tooth replacement solution.
How Are Full Dentures Made & Fitted?
The process of getting full dentures involves several steps:
- Consultation & Exam – Our dental team examines your oral health, takes measurements, and discusses your treatment options.
- Tooth Extraction (If Needed) – If any remaining teeth must be removed, we carefully perform extractions and allow healing time.
- Impressions & Design – We take detailed impressions of your gums to create custom-fitted dentures that match your bite and facial structure.
- Trial Denture Fitting – A test model is created for you to try, ensuring a comfortable fit before finalizing your dentures.
- Final Adjustments & Delivery – Once approved, your final dentures are crafted and fitted for long-term comfort and function.
At Port City Dentistry, we use high-quality materials to ensure your dentures look and feel natural.
Full Dentures vs. Other Tooth Replacement Options
Patients often ask how full dentures compare to other restorative options like implants and bridges. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Full Dentures | Dental Implants | Bridges |
| Removable? | Yes | No | No |
| Surgery Required? | No | Yes | No |
| Cost-Effective? | Yes | More expensive | Moderate |
| Longevity | 5-10 years | 15+ years | 10-15 years |
Full dentures are a great choice for those who want a simple, affordable, and non-invasive tooth replacement option.
Caring for Your Full Dentures
To ensure long-lasting and comfortable dentures, follow these care tips:
- Clean Daily – Brush your dentures with a soft toothbrush and denture cleaner to prevent plaque buildup.
- Soak Overnight – Keep dentures in water or a soaking solution to maintain their shape.
- Avoid Hard & Sticky Foods – Prevent damage by eating softer foods.
- Visit the Dentist Regularly – Routine checkups help maintain the fit and function of your dentures.
With proper maintenance, your dentures can provide years of reliable use.
Get Custom Full Dentures at Port City Dentistry
If you need a reliable solution for missing teeth, Port City Dentistry offers expert full denture services in Wilmington, NC. Our team is dedicated to providing comfortable, high-quality dentures to restore your smile and confidence.
📍 Location: 4700 New Centre Dr, Wilmington, NC 28405
📞 Call Now: 910-613-5635
📅 Book Your Appointment Online Today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Full Dentures
What’s the difference between complete dentures and partial dentures?
Complete dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures are designed for patients who still have some remaining natural teeth. Partial dentures fill the gaps left by missing teeth and often use clasps to stay in place, whereas complete dentures are full-arch replacements. Both options are removable dentures, allowing for daily cleaning. Choosing between them depends on how many teeth you’ve lost and your overall oral health.
What are immediate dentures and when should I consider them?
Immediate dentures are placed right after your remaining natural teeth are removed, so you don’t have to go without teeth during the healing process. They serve as temporary dentures while your gums recover, and adjustments may be needed as your mouth heals. This solution is ideal if you want to avoid being without teeth in public. However, immediate dentures may not fit as precisely as permanent dentures, which are made after full healing.
How do I care for removable dentures to make them last?
To keep your removable dentures in great shape, clean them daily using a soft brush and denture cleaner to remove plaque and food particles. Soak them overnight in water or a recommended solution to maintain their shape. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive. You can also use denture adhesive for added stability. Routine dental visits help ensure your dentures replace missing teeth effectively and stay properly adjusted.
Are there affordable dentures that still look and feel natural?
Yes, affordable dentures can still offer a natural look and comfortable feel when customized by a skilled dentist. At Port City Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we craft full and partial dentures using quality materials that fit your budget. Whether you choose temporary dentures, immediate dentures, or permanent dentures, we focus on functionality and aesthetics. Denture adhesive and proper care can further enhance comfort and performance without breaking the bank.
Can dentures replace all my missing teeth permanently?
Dentures replace missing teeth by providing full or partial solutions, but they aren’t considered permanent like implants. However, permanent dentures can be secured with dental implants for long-term use. Traditional removable dentures are effective for everyday use and are designed to last 5–10 years with proper care. If you’re considering a more lasting solution, implant-supported dentures offer a secure alternative that combines durability with the ability to replace a full arch of denture teeth.