Dentures Treatment in Winchester, VA
Dentures — often called false teeth — are custom prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. Modern dentures are crafted to resemble natural teeth closely and greatly improve your appearance, chewing ability, and speech. While traditional dentures will never feel exactly like natural teeth and require an adjustment period, they remain an affordable, accessible solution for many adults and seniors.
At Westover Family Dentistry, we offer a full range of denture options, including complete dentures, 3D printed dentures, partial dentures, one-hour dentures, and a comprehensive line of implant-supported dentures for patients who want added stability and comfort. For enhanced function and long-term reliability, explore our Dental Implants page to learn how implants can dramatically improve the fit and feel of your denture.
Complete Dentures
A Traditional, Affordable Full-Arch Solution
Conventional removable complete dentures replace all missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They are custom-made in a dental lab and typically held in place with denture adhesive.
However, traditional complete dentures:
- Offer limited retention
- Require practice and time to get used to
- Provide roughly 20% of natural chewing function
- Often limit the types of foods patients can enjoy
- May need periodic adjustments as the gums adapt
Most complete dentures last 5–10 years, depending on wear and changes in gum tissue.
3D Printed Dentures
Fast, Precise, and Highly Natural Looking
3D printed dentures are created by digitally scanning your mouth or an existing denture. This technology allows us to design and fabricate dentures that look incredibly lifelike and deliver a precise fit.
Patients appreciate that 3D printed dentures:
- Are created digitally for exceptional accuracy
- Have a natural appearance with excellent esthetics
- Last 3–5 years
- Can be reprinted quickly if broken or lost
Partial Dentures
Replace Multiple Missing Teeth With a Removable Option
A removable partial denture is used when some, but not all, teeth are missing. It includes replacement teeth attached to a metal or plastic base that sits on your gums.
Partial dentures:
- Restore chewing and esthetics in areas with missing teeth
- Are removable for easy cleaning
- Require a short adjustment period
- Can be a budget-friendly alternative to implants
One-Hour Dentures
A Quick, Temporary Option for Immediate Use
When you need a fast solution, such as after tooth extractions, one-hour dentures provide temporary esthetics and function.
One-hour dentures:
- Are made using one of five standard templates
- Can be fabricated in a single visit
- Are significantly more affordable
- Are intended only as a short-term replacement
Implant-Supported Dentures
A More Stable, Life-Like Alternative
Implant-supported dentures are ideal for patients who want dentures that feel more like natural teeth. Implants act as anchor points, allowing the denture to snap in securely and stay in place while eating and speaking.
We offer several implant-based solutions:
- Locator implants
- Mini implants
- Fixed-hybrid dentures
- All-on-four systems
- Screw-in implant bridges
These advanced options dramatically improve stability, comfort, and function compared to traditional removable dentures.
Our dentists are always happy to explain the differences between each system and help you choose the best treatment for your needs.
Explore Your Options: Which Type of Denture Is Right for You?
Q. Do I need a full denture or a partial denture?
A. It depends on how many teeth are missing:
- Full dentures replace all teeth in one arch
- Partial dentures replace several teeth while preserving existing healthy teeth
Q. Should I consider implant-supported dentures?
A. Consider implants if you’re looking for:
- Greater stability
- Improved chewing ability
- Less movement and irritation
- A long-term solution that feels closer to natural teeth
Q. Are 3D printed dentures better than traditional dentures?
A. Many patients prefer 3D printed dentures because they:
- Offer enhanced esthetics
- Fit more accurately
- Can be recreated easily if lost or damaged
Frequently Asked Questions
Before choosing a denture option, patients typically search for answers about comfort, cost, maintenance, and how dentures compare to implant-supported solutions. These FAQs address the most common concerns.
How long does it take to adjust to new dentures?
Most patients adjust within a few weeks. During this time, your gums and cheeks learn to support and move with the denture. Speaking out loud at home and starting with softer foods can help speed up the adjustment.
Can I sleep with my dentures in?
It’s best to remove dentures at night to give your gums time to rest and to prevent infection or irritation. Sleeping without dentures also helps preserve bone health over time.
Can dentures affect how I talk?
Yes, but only temporarily. Most patients adjust within a few days. Practicing certain words or reading aloud helps improve speech quickly.
Are dentures covered by dental insurance?
Most insurance plans cover at least part of the cost of dentures, including full, partial, or interim dentures. Coverage amounts vary, and our team will review your benefits for clarity.
When should dentures be replaced?
Dentures typically last 5–10 years, depending on the type and how well they’re cared for. If you notice looseness, discomfort, cracks, or difficulty chewing, it may be time to replace or reline them.
