Choosing the right dentures can be confusing, but understanding your options ensures a better long-term outcome. As a dentist in Crossville with over a decade of experience, I’ve helped hundreds of patients restore their smiles and quality of life through personalized denture solutions.

Dentures are removable or fixed prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth, improve speech clarity, support facial structure, and restore your ability to eat comfortably. Whether you’ve lost a few teeth or an entire arch, there are multiple types of dentures available, and the right fit depends on your oral health, lifestyle, and goals.

This guide breaks down the different denture types, how they work, and which may be best for your needs.

Full Dentures: Complete Smile Restoration

Full dentures are ideal for patients who have lost all their teeth in either the upper, lower, or both arches. These are the most traditional and widely used denture option.

What They Are:

• A gum-colored acrylic base rests on your gums
• Artificial teeth (porcelain or acrylic) are attached to the base

Pros:

• Most affordable full-mouth restoration
• Non-invasive and widely available
• Improves ability to chew and speak

Cons:

• May feel bulky or loose at first
• Often requires adhesive
• Needs periodic relining as gums shrink

Cost Range: $1,000–$3,000 per arch, depending on materials and customization
Best for: Patients missing all teeth who want an affordable, non-surgical solution

Partial Dentures: Filling the Gaps

If you still have some healthy natural teeth, partial dentures may be a better option than going fully edentulous.

What They Are:

• Prosthetic teeth attached to a gum-colored base
• Held in place by a metal or flexible nylon framework
• Clasps connect to natural teeth for support

Metal vs. Flexible Partials:

• Metal: More durable, slightly more visible
• Flexible nylon: More aesthetic, lightweight, and comfortable

Pros:

• Preserves remaining teeth
• More stable than full dentures
• Removable for easy cleaning

Cons:

• May require adjustments over time
• Clasps may be visible when smiling

Cost Range: $700–$2,500 depending on material and complexity
Best for: Patients with some natural teeth remaining

Immediate Dentures: No Time Without Teeth

Immediate dentures are prepared and placed on the same day as your tooth extractions, ensuring you’re never without a smile.

What They Are:

• Temporary dentures made in advance
• Placed immediately after extractions
• Adjusted during the healing process

Pros:

• Instant results, no “toothless” period
• Helps maintain facial appearance during healing

Cons:

• Require frequent relining as gums heal
• Higher cost due to adjustments

Healing Time: 3–6 months for gums to settle before permanent dentures
Cost Range: $1,500–$3,500 including follow-ups
Best for: Patients needing extractions but wanting immediate tooth replacement

Implant-Supported Dentures: Ultimate Stability

Implant-supported dentures offer the highest level of comfort, function, and long-term health benefits.

What They Are:

• Dentures anchored to titanium implants placed in the jawbone
• Can be removable (bar- or ball-retained) or fixed in place

Bar-Retained: Denture clips onto a thin metal bar
Ball-Retained: Ball-and-socket attachment for secure hold
Fixed: Only removable by a dental professional

Pros:

• Most stable and natural-feeling option
• Prevents jawbone deterioration
• Allows more efficient chewing

Cons:

• Higher initial cost
• Requires oral surgery

Cost Range: $4,000–$30,000 depending on implant type and number
Best for: Patients seeking long-term solutions with maximum function and stability

Material Comparisons: Comfort, Aesthetics, and Durability

When choosing your dentures, the material matters just as much as the type.

Base Materials:

• Standard Acrylic: Affordable but may wear faster
• High-Impact Acrylic: More durable and resistant to fractures
• Flexible Nylon: Used in partials for better comfort and esthetics

Tooth Materials:

• Porcelain: Stronger and more natural-looking, but heavier
• Acrylic: Lighter, less likely to chip, and easier to adjust

Pro Tip: Porcelain may not be ideal if you still have natural teeth, as it can wear them down.

How to Choose the Right Dentures

Every smile is different. Here are some key factors we evaluate:

• Number of missing teeth
• Condition of remaining teeth and gums
• Budget and insurance coverage
• Your lifestyle (active vs. home-based)
• Expectations for aesthetics and function

We take the time to walk through each option and create a customized plan that prioritizes your health, comfort, and confidence.

Denture Care and Longevity

Proper care extends the life of your dentures and protects your oral health.

Daily Care Tips:

• Brush your dentures gently every day with a denture brush
• Rinse after eating to remove food particles
• Soak overnight in a denture solution to keep them moist
• Avoid using hot water, which can warp them

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Wearing dentures overnight without cleaning
• Skipping routine dental checkups
• Using abrasive toothpaste or bleach-based cleaners

Lifespan:

• Full/partial dentures: 5–10 years
• Implant-supported dentures: 10–20+ years with proper care

Cost Comparison Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I sleep with my dentures in?
No, you should not sleep with your dentures in. Removing them at night allows your gums to rest and helps prevent irritation, infection, and bacteria buildup.

Will dentures change the way I speak or eat?
Yes, dentures may temporarily affect your speech and eating, but most patients adjust within a few weeks. Implant-supported dentures offer the most natural feel and function.

How often should dentures be replaced?
Dentures should typically be replaced every 5 to 10 years. Over time, they can wear down or stop fitting properly due to changes in your jawbone and gum tissues.

Final Thoughts from Your Crossville Dentist

After helping many patients explore their denture options, I believe the best results come from personalized care and clear guidance. At Hooie Dental, we don’t just hand you a set of dentures,  we walk with you every step of the way to ensure comfort, function, and a confident smile.

If you’re considering dentures or are unhappy with your current set, don’t wait. Contact our Crossville office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward restoring your smile.

Call us today or reach out through our website. We’re here to help you smile confidently again.