Types of Dentures We Offer
Every patient’s situation is unique, which is why we offer several denture options to meet different needs and budgets. Complete dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures fill in gaps when you still have some healthy natural teeth remaining.
Complete Dentures:
- Full upper or lower replacement
- Custom-made for your mouth shape
- Natural-looking tooth color and gum tissue
Partial Dentures:
- Fill gaps between existing teeth
- Prevent remaining teeth from shifting
- Removable for easy cleaning
Immediate Dentures:
- Placed right after tooth extraction
- No waiting period without teeth
- Requires adjustments as healing progresses
The Denture Process at Harper Family Dental
Getting new dentures involves several appointments to ensure the best possible fit and appearance. During your first visit, Dr. Harper examines your mouth and discusses your goals for treatment. He takes detailed impressions of your gums and any remaining teeth to create dentures that fit your unique mouth shape.
The lab creates your custom dentures based on these impressions, and we schedule a fitting appointment once they’re ready. Dr. Harper checks the fit carefully and makes any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort. Most patients need a few follow-up visits for minor adjustments as they get used to wearing their new dentures.
We also provide detailed instructions on how to care for your dentures and what to expect during the adjustment period. This helps you feel confident about maintaining your oral health and getting the most from your investment.
Adjusting to Life with New Dentures in Columbia
The first few weeks with new dentures require some patience as your mouth adjusts to the change. Your speech might sound slightly different at first, and eating may feel awkward until you develop new chewing patterns. These changes are completely normal and improve quickly with practice.
Dr. Harper recommends starting with soft foods cut into small pieces and gradually working up to firmer textures. Reading aloud for a few minutes each day helps your tongue and lips adapt to speaking clearly with dentures. Most patients find they’re speaking and eating normally within a month.
Regular follow-up appointments allow us to monitor how well your dentures are fitting and make adjustments if needed. Your gums and jaw shape can change over time, so periodic check-ups ensure continued comfort and proper function.
Caring for Your Dentures
Proper denture care keeps them looking good and lasting longer while protecting your oral health. Remove and rinse your dentures after eating to clear away food particles and bacteria. Clean them daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner, never regular toothpaste which can be too abrasive.
Soak your dentures overnight in a cleaning solution to keep them moist and remove stubborn bacteria. This also gives your gums time to rest and recover from wearing dentures all day. Always handle them carefully over a towel or sink full of water to prevent damage if dropped.
Even with dentures, you still need regular dental check-ups. Dr. Harper examines your gums, checks your denture fit, and monitors your overall oral health during these visits. This helps catch any problems early and keeps your mouth healthy for years to come.
Schedule Your Denture Consultation Today
Don’t let missing teeth limit your life any longer. Dr. Andrew Harper and our team at Harper Family Dental are ready to help you explore your denture options and find the solution that works best for your needs and budget. We’ll answer all your questions and create a treatment plan that gets you back to eating, speaking, and smiling with confidence.
Contact Harper Family Dental today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward restoring your smile with quality dentures in Columbia, MS.
