Partial and full dentures replace missing teeth and restore strength, comfort, and appearance. At Deaton Dental Associates and Flowertown Dentistry, we provide custom‑made dentures using modern techniques and durable materials for a natural‑looking fit.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are custom-made oral appliances that replace missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissue. They are designed to restore chewing ability, support facial structure, and improve speech clarity. Depending on your needs, dentures may replace several teeth or an entire dental arch. Modern dentures use advanced dental materials to provide a natural-looking smile and a comfortable fit.
Did You Know?
Replacing missing teeth does more than restore your smile. Gaps in the dental arches can cause nearby teeth to shift, weaken the bite, strain the jaw joint, and lead to changes in facial shape over time. Restoring these spaces with dentures helps protect long-term oral health and maintain proper function.
Types of Dentures We Offer
We partner with trusted dental labs to create durable, natural-looking dentures that fit comfortably and support long-term oral health. Each option is designed around your needs, whether you are replacing several teeth or a full arch.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures replace several missing teeth while preserving the healthy teeth you still have. They help maintain your bite, keep teeth from shifting, and restore everyday chewing and speaking. Your dentist will recommend the style and materials that best support your comfort and oral health.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures restore all the teeth in an upper or lower arch. These custom-made appliances are shaped to your gums for a natural look and fit. Depending on your treatment plan, they may be placed immediately after extractions or once healing is complete.
Implant Dentures and Implant-Supported Options
Implant dentures attach to dental implants for improved stability, comfort, and chewing strength. They can be removable or fixed, depending on your goals. While implant placement is completed by a trusted specialist, our team provides the restorative design and final denture that attaches to the implants.
Traditional Dentures vs. Implant Options
A quick overview can help you understand how traditional dentures differ from implant-supported options.
| Feature | Traditional Dentures | |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | May shift or loosen | Secure, anchored to implants |
| Comfort | Rest on gum tissue | Supported by implants, reduced pressure on gums |
| Chewing Strength | Moderate | Strong, closer to natural teeth |
| Bone Preservation | Do not prevent bone loss | Help preserve jawbone structure |
| Speech Clarity | May take time to adjust | Often clearer due to improved stability |
| Maintenance | Removed daily for cleaning | Similar care, but more stable day‑to‑day |
| Longevity | Can wear faster over time | Durable, long-term solution |
| Overall Feel | Functional | Most natural-feeling option |
What to Expect During Treatment
Your denture process begins with a comprehensive examination and dental X-rays to evaluate your oral cavity, natural teeth, and gum tissues.
Your visit may include:
- Digital scans
- Discussion of denture design options
- Review of dental materials and tooth shade selection
- Coordination with a dental lab for fabrication
For implant dentures, you will also review treatment timelines, healing stages, and the role of the jawbone in supporting dental implants.
Throughout your dental treatment, our team focuses on comfort, communication, and a smooth denture‑wearing process.
What to Expect When You Receive Your New Dentures
Your new dentures may take a little time to get used to. Slight changes in speech, chewing, or saliva flow are normal as your mouth adapts. Our team will guide you through the denture‑wearing process and answer any questions along the way.
Here are a few additional tips to make the transition easier:
- Expect mild sore spots: As your mouth adjusts, certain areas may feel tender. These are common and can be gently relieved with small in‑office adjustments.
- Read aloud to practice speech: This simple exercise helps your tongue adapt to the new appliance and improves clarity.
- Wear them as instructed: Your dentist may recommend wearing the denture for most of the day at first so we can identify areas needing adjustment.
- Chew on both sides of your mouth: This helps balance chewing forces and keeps your denture stable while you learn your new bite.
- Eat soft foods: Start with soft foods to help your muscles and bite adapt before returning to your usual diet.
Most patients adjust within a few days to a few weeks, and our team is here to help if you need small adjustments along the way.
Caring for Your Dentures
Proper cleaning helps your dentures last longer and keeps your oral health in good shape.
To care for your denture:
- Clean daily with a soft-bristle brush
- Use a denture cleaner or denture cleaning solution
- Avoid hot water, which may warp the plastic base
- Rinse dentures after meals
- For partial dentures, keep natural teeth and gum tissue clean
- Remove dentures at night to rest the oral tissues
Your dentist will review personalized care tips to help maintain your restored function and natural‑looking smile.
Insurance and Payment Options
Deaton Dental Associates and Flowertown Dentistry accept many dental insurance plans and can assist you in understanding your coverage. For patients without insurance, we provide clear, upfront cost estimates and flexible payment options. Ask about our Dental Membership Plan, which includes preventive care and exclusive savings with no deductibles, maximums, or waiting periods.
Schedule an Appointment
Restore your smile with custom, comfortable dentures designed to fit your lifestyle.
To book an appointment at Flowertown Dentistry, call (843) 871-0814 or visit us at 445 North Cedar St, Summerville, SC 29483.
To book an appointment at Deaton Dental Associates, call (843) 873-3706 or visit us at 209 West 5th North Street, Summerville, SC 29483.
Both offices share the same trusted ownership and commitment to gentle, personalized care for every patient.
How much does a full set of dentures cost?
Costs vary depending on the type of denture, materials used, and whether implants are involved. Our team provides clear estimates, works with many dental insurance plans, and offers options to help make treatment affordable.
What are dentures made of?
Dentures are typically made with a gum-colored acrylic base and artificial teeth crafted from durable acrylic or porcelain. Depending on the design, partial dentures may also include a lightweight metal framework or flexible resin for added support and comfort.
Are bone grafts necessary if you want to get dentures?
Traditional dentures do not require bone grafts. However, if you choose implant dentures, bone grafting may be recommended if the jaw bone is not strong enough to support dental implants.
How long does it take to get dentures?
The process typically takes several weeks, depending on healing time, lab fabrication, and the type of denture. Immediate dentures are available the same day as extractions.
Can you sleep with dentures?
It is recommended to remove your dentures at night. This gives your gums a chance to rest and helps keep the tissues healthy.
Can you chew gum with dentures?
Some patients can chew gum, but it depends on the denture type. Implant dentures usually provide better stability. Your dentist can recommend denture‑friendly options.
Where can I get dentures near me?
You can visit Deaton Dental Associates or Flowertown Dentistry for complete restorative dentistry services, including partial dentures, full dentures, and implant‑supported dentures. Both offices provide gentle, personalized dental care.