Cosmetic Dentistry in St. Cloud
Book Appointment

Dentures

Understanding Dentures

Dentures are a tried-and-true solution for replacing missing teeth, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. At Centrasota Dental, we provide high-quality dentures designed to restore your smile, improve your oral health, and enhance your quality of life. Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues, helping to maintain facial structure, improve speech, and facilitate proper chewing.

dentures at centrasota dental

 

Types of Dentures

At Centrasota Dental, we offer a variety of dentures tailored to meet your specific needs:

Complete Dentures: Complete dentures are used when all teeth are missing. These can be further classified into conventional and immediate dentures. Conventional dentures are made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking several weeks. Immediate dentures are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed, ensuring you are never without teeth during the healing period.

Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. These consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base, which is connected by metal framework that holds the denture in place in the mouth. Partial dentures not only fill in the spaces created by missing teeth but also prevent other teeth from changing position.

Implant-Supported Dentures: These dentures are anchored by dental implants, providing a more stable and secure fit compared to traditional dentures. Implant-supported dentures are particularly beneficial for the lower jaw, where conventional dentures tend to be less stable.

 

Benefits of Dentures

Dentures offer numerous advantages, including:

Improved Appearance: Dentures can dramatically improve your smile and overall appearance. They are designed to resemble your natural teeth closely, so there should be very little noticeable change.

Enhanced Oral Function: Dentures help restore the ability to chew and speak properly, functions that can be severely compromised by missing teeth.

Support for Facial Muscles: Dentures support the facial muscles, preventing the sunken appearance that often occurs when teeth are missing.

Boosted Confidence: With a restored smile, many denture wearers experience a significant increase in self-confidence and quality of life.

 

The Denture Fitting Process

The process of getting dentures typically involves several steps to ensure a perfect fit and optimal comfort:

Initial Consultation: During your first visit, Dr. Congdon will evaluate your oral health and discuss your needs and preferences. This initial assessment helps determine the most suitable type of denture for you.

Impressions and Measurements: Detailed impressions of your mouth and measurements of your jaw are taken. These are used to create a custom denture that fits comfortably and functions effectively.

Trial Fitting: A trial denture is made based on the impressions and measurements. You will try on this trial denture to check for fit, comfort, and appearance. Any necessary adjustments are made at this stage.

Final Denture: Once the fit and appearance are confirmed, the final denture is crafted. Dr. Congdon will ensure that your new dentures fit perfectly and provide instructions on how to care for them.

Follow-Up Visits: Adjustments may be needed after you start wearing your dentures to ensure they remain comfortable and effective. Regular follow-up visits help maintain the fit and function of your dentures.

 

Caring for Your Dentures

Proper care and maintenance of your dentures are essential for longevity and oral health:

  • Daily Cleaning: Brush your dentures daily with a soft-bristle brush and non-abrasive denture cleanser to remove food particles and plaque. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive for dentures.
  • Soaking Overnight: Remove your dentures at night and soak them in a denture cleaning solution or plain water to keep them moist and maintain their shape.
  • Oral Hygiene: Even with dentures, maintaining good oral hygiene is important. Brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth every morning before you insert your dentures to stimulate circulation and remove plaque.
  • Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular check-ups with Dr. Congdon to monitor the condition of your dentures and oral health.

 

Success Stories

Many of our patients have experienced life-changing benefits from dentures provided by Centrasota Dental. Here are some testimonials from our satisfied patients:

“Great place and great people working there.” – Mike Kirchner

“Efficient, precise and friendly, sums up the staff. Thanks for making an experience I don’t care for a good experience.” – Dina Hengel Vollan

“Dr. Congdon has been my dentist since I moved to St Cloud 14 years ago. This speaks volume about the care, the professionalism, and the sense of friendship Centrasota Dental extends to their patients and customers. Simply the best!” – Mumbi Mwangi

“The best dentist and staff I have worked with! I picked a day that I had off to have a needed procedure, but Dr. Congdon didn’t want me to have to wait that long so he came in on his day off at 6:45am so that way I could be ready for work at 8:00am!! 5 stars” – Trish Caird

“Dr. Congdon is an exemplary dentist. The staff is wonderful, too. Centrasota Dental is simply ‘best in class.'” – Gary Kunstal

 

Cost and Insurance

Cost Factors: The cost of dentures can vary depending on the type of denture, the materials used, and any additional procedures needed. During your consultation, we will provide a detailed estimate and discuss your options.

Insurance Coverage: Dental insurance coverage for dentures varies by provider and plan. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand your coverage. Our team can assist you with the necessary documentation and insurance claims.

 

Contact Us

If you are considering dentures or have any questions, please contact Centrasota Dental. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you restore your smile and improve your oral health with high-quality dentures. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step towards a beautiful, confident smile.

Dentures Questions

What are dentures, and how do they work?
Dentures are custom-made removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. At Centrasota Dental, we create dentures to restore both the aesthetic appearance of your smile and the functionality of your bite. Dentures work by fitting snugly over the gums, with the prosthetic teeth mimicking the look and function of natural teeth. They help support the facial structure, improve chewing and speaking abilities, and boost confidence. Dentures are held in place by suction, dental adhesives, or, in some cases, implants for added stability.
How long do dentures last?
Dentures generally last 5 to 10 years with proper care. Over time, the shape of your gums and jawbone may change, affecting the fit of your dentures. Regular check-ups allow us to make adjustments, relines, or even replacements as needed to ensure your dentures continue to fit comfortably and function effectively. At Centrasota Dental, we recommend periodic evaluations to assess the condition of your dentures and discuss any maintenance or replacement needs.
What types of dentures are available?

We offer several types of dentures at Centrasota Dental:

  • Complete Dentures: These are full sets of dentures used when all natural teeth are missing.
  • Partial Dentures: Ideal for patients with some remaining natural teeth, partials fill in the gaps created by missing teeth and prevent other teeth from shifting.
  • Implant-Supported Dentures: These are dentures anchored by dental implants, providing added stability and often enhancing comfort, especially for the lower jaw. Each type is tailored to fit your specific needs and oral health condition.
How much do dentures cost?
The cost of dentures can vary based on the type of denture, materials used, and any preparatory procedures required. At Centrasota Dental, we provide a personalized cost estimate during your consultation. Complete dentures may range from $1,000 to $3,000 per arch, while partial and implant-supported dentures typically have additional costs. We’re happy to work with you on payment plans and insurance options to make your treatment as affordable as possible.
Are dentures comfortable to wear?
Well-fitted dentures are designed to be comfortable and functional. While there may be an adjustment period as your mouth adapts to the new appliance, dentures should feel comfortable once properly fitted. At Centrasota Dental, we take precise measurements and provide a trial fitting to ensure your dentures fit securely and comfortably. Follow-up appointments allow us to address any areas of discomfort or make adjustments as needed.
What is the process for getting dentures?

The process of getting dentures typically includes the following steps:

  • Consultation: We assess your oral health and discuss your goals to determine the best type of denture.
  • Impressions and Measurements: We take detailed impressions and measurements of your jaw to create a custom-fit denture.
  • Trial Fitting: A trial denture is created for you to try on, allowing us to make adjustments for comfort, fit, and aesthetics.
  • Final Fitting: Once the fit is confirmed, we create the final denture, ensuring it fits comfortably and securely.
  • Follow-Up Visits: After receiving your dentures, we’ll schedule follow-up visits to monitor their fit and make any necessary adjustments.
How do I care for my dentures?

Proper care is essential to maintaining your dentures. We recommend:

  • Daily Cleaning: Use a soft-bristle brush and non-abrasive denture cleanser to remove plaque and food particles.
  • Soaking Overnight: Remove dentures at night and soak them in a denture cleaner or water to keep them moist and maintain their shape.
  • Oral Hygiene: Clean your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth daily to keep your mouth healthy.
  • Regular Check-Ups: Visit Centrasota Dental for regular check-ups to monitor your dentures and oral health.
Can you sleep with dentures in?
While it’s technically possible to sleep with dentures, we advise removing them at night. Removing your dentures allows your gums to rest and breathe, reducing the risk of irritation or infection. Overnight soaking also helps preserve the shape and fit of your dentures. If you have questions about wearing dentures overnight, our team can provide specific guidance based on your unique needs.
How do dentures compare to dental implants?
Dentures and dental implants both replace missing teeth but differ in stability, durability, and maintenance. Dentures are removable and can be a cost-effective solution, especially if multiple teeth are missing. Implants, on the other hand, are permanent fixtures anchored in the jawbone, offering greater stability and preventing bone loss. However, implants require sufficient bone density and are a more significant initial investment. We can help you explore both options and decide which best meets your goals.
What foods can I eat with dentures?
After getting dentures, we recommend starting with soft foods to allow time to adjust. As you become accustomed to the dentures, you can gradually introduce more varieties of foods. Avoid sticky or hard foods like caramel, nuts, or popcorn, as these can damage or dislodge the dentures. With practice, you’ll be able to enjoy a wide range of foods comfortably.
Can dentures be repaired if they break?
Yes, dentures can often be repaired if they break or crack. At Centrasota Dental, we assess the damage to determine whether a repair or replacement is necessary. For minor issues, repairs can often be done quickly, sometimes even on the same day. If the damage is extensive, we may recommend creating a new set to ensure optimal comfort and function.
Do dentures look natural?
Modern dentures are designed to closely resemble natural teeth. At Centrasota Dental, we work with high-quality materials and customize each denture to match the color, shape, and size that best suits your smile. Our goal is to create dentures that not only restore function but also provide a beautiful, natural-looking smile.
Are there alternatives to dentures for missing teeth?

Yes, there are alternatives to dentures, including:

  • Dental Implants: Permanent replacements that are anchored into the jawbone, providing stability and preventing bone loss.
  • Implant-Supported Bridges: Bridges supported by implants, useful for multiple missing teeth.
  • Fixed Bridges: Bridges that span the gap created by missing teeth, secured by crowns on surrounding teeth. We’ll help you explore all options and recommend the best solution based on your oral health and preferences.
How do I know if I need dentures?
If you’re experiencing multiple missing teeth, difficulty chewing, speech changes, or jaw pain due to shifting teeth, dentures might be a suitable option. During a consultation at Centrasota Dental, we evaluate your oral health, discuss your needs, and recommend a solution that aligns with your goals, whether it’s dentures or an alternative.
Can I get dentures if I have gum disease?
Gum disease can affect the success and fit of dentures, so it’s important to address any gum issues before fitting dentures. At Centrasota Dental, we recommend treating gum disease first to ensure a healthy foundation for your dentures. After your gums are healthy, we can proceed with creating a comfortable and stable denture.
How often do dentures need to be replaced?
Dentures typically last between 5 to 10 years. Over time, natural changes in your gums and jaw may affect the fit of the dentures. Regular check-ups allow us to monitor their condition, make adjustments, or recommend a replacement when needed. Proper care and maintenance can extend the lifespan of your dentures.
Are dentures covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans offer partial or full coverage for dentures, although this varies based on the provider and plan. At Centrasota Dental, we help you understand your coverage and assist with insurance claims. We also offer payment options and financing plans to make dentures more accessible for our patients.
How long does it take to get used to dentures?
The adjustment period for dentures can vary from a few days to a few weeks. Initially, you may experience some soreness or difficulty speaking and eating, but this typically improves with time. Our team provides guidance and follow-up care to make the transition as smooth as possible and offers tips on adjusting to your new dentures.
Can dentures affect my speech?
It’s common to experience slight speech changes when you first start wearing dentures, as your mouth adapts to the new appliance. Practicing speaking aloud and repeating certain words can help speed up this adjustment. Within a few days to weeks, most patients find that their speech returns to normal as they become accustomed to the dentures.
What should I do if my dentures feel loose?
Loose dentures can result from natural changes in your gums and jaw structure over time. If your dentures feel loose, it’s best to schedule an appointment with us at Centrasota Dental. We may recommend a reline or adjustment to improve the fit. In some cases, implant-supported dentures may offer a more stable, long-term solution.