Why Dentures Matter

Losing teeth—whether from decay, injury, or age—can affect more than just your smile. Properly fitted dentures restore chewing function, support facial structure to prevent that “sunken” look, and boost confidence in social and professional settings. At NLV Dental, our experienced team of Las Vegas and North Las Vegas dentists is dedicated to guiding you through every step of your denture journey. Learn more about our practice on our About Us page.

1. Understanding Denture Types

Full Dentures

• Replace all teeth in one arch (upper or lower).
• Custom‑molded to your gum ridges for a secure fit.

Partial Dentures

• Fill gaps when you still have healthy natural teeth.
• Often use clasps or precision attachments to anchor to existing teeth.

Implant‑Supported Dentures

• Snap onto titanium implants surgically placed in the jawbone.
• Offer superior stability, preventing slipping and bone loss over time.

Implant‑supported options typically require a healthy jawbone. During your free consultation, we’ll assess your bone density and overall oral health to determine if you’re a candidate.

2. Step‑by‑Step: What to Expect at Your Visits

a. Initial Consultation & Examination

• Comprehensive oral exam and X‑rays to evaluate bone health.
• Discussion of your goals—comfort, appearance, function—and lifestyle considerations.

b. Impressions or Digital Scans

• We’ll capture precise molds of your gums and any remaining teeth using a soft, quick‑setting material or with our state‑of‑the‑art intraoral scanner.

c. Wax Try‑In

• A wax replica of your future dentures lets you preview fit, bite alignment, and tooth shape.
• We make any necessary adjustments before finalizing.

d. Final Fitting & Adjustments

• Your polished acrylic dentures are placed, and we fine‑tune the bite and pressure points.
• You’ll walk out with detailed care instructions and emergency contact info.

3. Adjusting to Your New Dentures

• Speaking: It’s normal to experience slight lisps or changes in speech. Practice by reading aloud or repeating tricky words.
• Eating: Begin with soft foods cut into small pieces—think yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies—then gradually reintroduce firmer items like cooked vegetables and tender meats.
• Comfort: Soreness or mild irritation during the first week is common. If discomfort persists beyond two weeks, schedule a quick adjustment.

Pro Tip: Keep a small tube of denture adhesive handy for extra hold during social events or when dining out.

4. Caring for Your Dentures

• Daily Cleaning Routine:
  1. Rinse dentures under lukewarm water to remove loose debris.
  2. Brush gently with a non‑abrasive denture paste and soft‑bristle brush.
  3. Inspect for cracks or spots that require professional attention.
• Overnight Soaking:
  • Immerse dentures in water or a prescribed soaking solution to prevent warping.
  • Rinse thoroughly before reinserting.
• Regular Check‑Ups:
  • Plan biannual visits to your Las Vegas dentist for deep cleaning, fit checks, and oral cancer screenings.

5. Common Myths & Misconceptions

• “Dentures Are Only for Seniors.”
  Younger adults can need dentures due to accidents or advanced decay.
• “They Look Fake.”
  Modern materials and custom shading ensure your new teeth look natural and blend seamlessly with your facial features.
• “Dentures Hurt.”
  Properly fitted dentures should be comfortable. Any persistent pain is easily corrected with a quick adjustment.

6. Top 7 Signs You Need New Dentures

1. Frequent Slippage: Constant repositioning during meals or conversations.
2. Persistent Sores: Red or tender areas on your gums.
3. Visible Damage: Cracks, chips, or worn teeth surfaces.
4. Changes in Bite: Your jaw feels misaligned or you’re biting unevenly.
5. Bad Odor: Lingering smell despite thorough cleaning.
6. Speech Difficulties: Lapses in pronunciation after the initial adjustment period.
7. Facial Changes: Noticeable sagging or hollowed cheeks.

7. Lifestyle & Nutrition Tips

• Stay Hydrated: Oral tissues need moisture to stay healthy.
• Balanced Diet: Include calcium‑rich foods (dairy, leafy greens) and protein (eggs, fish) to support gum health.
• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Candies, nuts, and popcorn can dislodge or damage dentures.

8. Financing & Insurance Guidance

While we don’t list prices here, NLV Dental offers flexible payment plans and accepts most major dental insurances. During your consultation, our treatment coordinator will walk you through available options and any pre‑authorization steps to minimize out‑of‑pocket costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long do dentures last?
A: With proper care, most dentures last 5–8 years before requiring relining or replacement.

Q2: Will dentures affect my taste?
A: You may notice a slight change initially, but most patients report that tastes return to normal once they adapt.

Q3: Can I sleep with my dentures in?
A: It’s best to remove them at night to give your gums a rest and reduce infection risk.

Q4: How do I handle broken or lost dentures?
A: Contact our office immediately. We offer same‑day repairs and replacement services to get you smiling again.

Q5: Are implant‑supported dentures painful?
A: Implant placement involves minor oral surgery with local anesthesia. Most patients report only mild discomfort managed with over‑the‑counter pain relievers.

Ready to Smile Again?

If you’re interested in dentures, contact us today to schedule your appointment. Our North Las Vegas denture specialists are here to help you regain function, comfort, and confidence—one step at a time.