Dentures in Cedar Rapids & Marion 

Dentures: Complete Guide to Types, Care & Maintenance

Dentures are custom-made dental appliances that replace missing teeth and restore the function and appearance of your smile. Whether you’re missing a few teeth or need full mouth restoration, dentures provide support for your cheeks and lips and help you speak and eat with confidence.

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Types of Dentures

1. Complete Dentures
Used when all natural teeth are missing. They can be:

• Conventional Dentures – Made after the gums have fully healed from tooth extraction.

• Immediate Dentures – Placed right after extraction to support healing.

2. Upper and Lower Dentures

• Upper Dentures cover the roof of the mouth with a flesh-colored acrylic base.

• Lower Dentures are U-shaped to allow space for the tongue.

3. Implant-Supported Dentures
For added stability, complete dentures can be anchored to dental implants.

4. Overdentures
Custom dentures that fit over existing tooth roots or implants for a snug, natural feel.

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What Are Dentures Made Of?

• Acrylic Base – Mimics the look of natural gums.

• Teeth – Made of plastic, porcelain, or both.

• Custom Fit – Designed to match your mouth shape and bite.

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Denture Care Tips

Proper care extends the life of your dentures and supports oral health:

• Clean daily with a soft-bristled denture brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner.

• Avoid hot water to prevent warping.

• Soak in water or denture solution when not in use.

• Inspect for wear and staining – worn dentures can affect speech and chewing.

• Never attempt to adjust or repair dentures yourself.

• Schedule regular dental checkups for fit, comfort, and oral health monitoring.

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Denture Exams & Maintenance

Annual exams are essential to ensure proper fit and detect early signs of oral issues, including:

• Medical & Dental History Update

• Oral Cancer Screenings

• Tissue & Bone Health Assessment

• Fit, Bite & Denture Integrity Check

• Denture Cleaning & Polishing

Loose or uncomfortable dentures can irritate gum tissue and cause bone loss over time. If you’re experiencing discomfort, consult our dental team for adjustments.

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Denture Relines

As your gums change, your dentures may loosen. Relining restores the snug fit.

• Hard Reline – Recommended every 2 years. Dentures are reshaped with an impression for a precise fit.

• Soft Reline – Ideal for patients with tender gums. Made of pliable material for enhanced comfort.

• Temporary Reline – A short-term solution for inflamed gums before permanent adjustments.

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Denture Rebase & Repairs

Rebasing involves replacing the entire pink acrylic base while keeping the existing teeth, typically due to age, wear, or damage.

Common reasons for rebasing:

• Cracked or broken base

• Weak or thinning material

• Replacement of temporary dentures

Denture Repairs
We offer same-day denture repair services to restore functionality and comfort.

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Soft Denture Liners

Soft liners are cushion-like materials placed between your gums and dentures, especially beneficial for:

• Sensitive gums

• Flat or receded gum ridges

• Sharp bony areas

Benefits of Soft Liners:

• Improved comfort and chewing ability

• Reduced sore spots

• Long-lasting relief for many patients

Routine follow-ups are essential to ensure optimal performance and comfort.

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Insurance Coverage for Dentures

Most dental insurance plans cover new dentures every 5 years. Regular checkups and maintenance help you maximize that benefit and protect your investment.

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Schedule Your Denture Consultation Today

At Horton Family Dental, our experienced team – Drs. Horton, Jacobson, Herrera, Hingst, and Robinson – are here to help you smile with confidence. Whether you need new dentures, repairs, or relines, we’ll create a custom plan to restore your comfort and function.

📞 Call today to book your denture evaluation and keep your smile strong and healthy.