At Godfrey Dentistry in Somersworth, NH, we take the time to understand your needs before recommending a solution. We examine your mouth, explain each option in plain language, and help you choose dentures that restore your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. Our approach is gentle, patient, and centered on helping you keep your mouth as healthy as possible for the long term.
Schedule Your Denture ConsultationSigns It May Be Time to Consider Dentures
Tooth loss often happens gradually, and many patients put off treatment for a long time. Replacing missing teeth sooner can protect your comfort, your nutrition, and your overall oral health. Dentures may be worth discussing if you notice any of the following.
- Several missing teeth in one or both arches
- Teeth that are loose, badly decayed, or too damaged to save
- Difficulty chewing the foods you enjoy
- Changes in your speech because of gaps in your smile
- Self consciousness about your smile or a sunken appearance in your face
- An old denture that no longer fits, slips, or causes sore spots
If you have a tooth that is painful or infected, schedule a visit promptly. Our emergency dentistry page explains what to do when a problem cannot wait.
Types of Dentures We Offer
Dentures come in several forms, and each one serves a different need. Some are removable and some are fixed in place, and some rely on dental implants for added stability. Here is a closer look at your options.
Traditional Full Dentures
A traditional full denture replaces all of the teeth in the upper arch, the lower arch, or both. It is removable and does not use implants. The denture has an acrylic base, custom made in a dental laboratory to mimic the look of natural gums, and this base rests over the gums to hold the denture in place. A full denture is made after all the teeth in the arch have been removed and the gum tissue has healed. Denture paste or adhesive is often used to help hold it in place. Because it is removable, a full denture can be taken out and cleaned when it is not being worn.
Traditional Partial Dentures
A partial denture is a removable solution for replacing several teeth in one arch when some natural teeth remain. The acrylic base may include metal attachments that wrap around existing teeth for added support. A partial denture can also be attached to crowns placed on the teeth on either side of the gap. Like a full denture, a removable partial can be taken out and cleaned when not in use.
Implant Supported Dentures
Dental implants can be used to anchor dentures in place, which allows for a smaller base and less shifting during use. The implants are placed by a qualified specialist we coordinate with, and we design and place the denture that attaches to them. Implants can support full and partial dentures, as well as both fixed and removable styles. Fixed dentures require implants, while removable dentures may or may not rely on them. To learn how implants work, visit our implant restorations page.
Your Path to a New Smile, from First Visit to Final Fit
Getting dentures is a process, and it usually takes several visits so we can design a set that fits well and looks natural. Taking the time to do it carefully helps you feel comfortable from the very first day. Here is a general look at what you can expect.
01
Consultation and Exam
We review your health history, examine your teeth, gums, and jaw, and take digital images as needed. We talk about your goals and explain which options may suit you.
02
Treatment Planning
We discuss your choices, the timeline, and the costs. If any teeth need to be removed or any gum concerns need attention first, we plan those steps together.
03
Preparing Your Mouth
When teeth need to be extracted, we remove them gently and allow the gum tissue to heal. You can read more on our tooth extractions page. If implants are part of your plan, a specialist we coordinate with places them and they are allowed to heal.
04
Impressions and Custom Fabrication
We take impressions and measurements of your mouth and bite. Your dentures are then made in a dental laboratory, with the acrylic base shaped to mimic natural gums and the teeth chosen for a natural look.
05
Try In and Adjustments
We check the fit, bite, and appearance, and make any needed refinements before your dentures are finished.
06
Delivery and Follow Up
We place your new dentures, show you how to wear and care for them, and schedule follow up visits so we can make adjustments as your mouth adapts.
Benefits of Dentures
Dentures can make a meaningful difference in daily life, and modern materials and design make them more natural and comfortable than ever. Patients commonly notice several advantages.
- A restored smile. Replacing missing teeth can help you feel more confident about the way you look.
- Better chewing. Dentures help you eat a wider variety of foods more comfortably.
- Clearer speech. Replacing missing teeth helps many patients speak more naturally.
- Support for facial structure. Teeth and dentures help support the lips and cheeks, which can prevent a sunken look.
- A custom, natural look. The base is made to resemble natural gum tissue, and the teeth are chosen for a lifelike appearance.
- Options for every need. From removable full dentures to implant supported solutions, there is a style that fits a range of goals and situations.
- Added stability with implants. Dentures attached to pre-placed dental implants can reduce slipping and shifting, helping many patients feel more secure when eating and speaking.
Understanding Denture Costs and Payment Options
Many patients want to understand the cost of dentures before they begin, and we are happy to explain. The price depends on the type of denture, the materials, whether extractions or implants are needed, and the number of visits. Dental plans often cover part of the cost of dentures, although coverage levels, waiting periods, and annual maximums vary. Our team will review your benefits, discuss your options, and provide a clear estimate before treatment begins. We accept all dental insurance plans except Medicaid, we are in network with Delta Dental Premier, and we offer financing through Sunbit for care that insurance does not fully cover.
Rediscover the Joy of Eating, Speaking, and Smiling
Living with missing teeth can affect much more than your appearance. A well fitted denture can help you enjoy meals, speak clearly, and feel good about your smile again. Our team at Godfrey Dentistry in Somersworth, NH is ready to listen to your goals, explain your options, and guide you step by step. Schedule your consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Dentures
Dentures are custom made replacements for multiple missing teeth. They can be fixed or removable, partial or full, and supported by dental implants or not. A full denture replaces all the teeth in an arch, while a partial denture replaces several teeth when some natural teeth remain. Our team will help you choose the type that fits your mouth, your health, and your goals.
A full denture replaces every tooth in the upper or lower arch and is made after all of the teeth in that arch have been removed and the gums have healed. A partial denture replaces several missing teeth in an arch where some natural teeth remain, and it may use metal attachments that wrap around nearby teeth for support. Both can be removable, and both can be supported by implants for added stability. During your exam, we will recommend which type suits your situation.
Both kinds exist. Traditional dentures are removable, so they can be taken out for cleaning when you are not wearing them. Fixed dentures are secured in place and require dental implants. Removable dentures may or may not use implants for attachment. We will explain the benefits and tradeoffs of each so you can decide what is most comfortable for you.
Implant supported dentures use dental implants to anchor the denture in place. This allows for a smaller base and less shifting while you eat and speak. The implants are placed by a qualified specialist we coordinate with, and we design and place the denture that attaches to them. Implants can support full and partial dentures, as well as both fixed and removable styles. You can learn more on our implant restorations page.
Yes, modern dentures are designed to look natural. The base is custom made in a dental laboratory to resemble natural gum tissue, and the teeth are selected for shape and shade to suit your face and smile. We review the fit and appearance with you before your dentures are finished. Many patients are pleased with how natural and comfortable their new smile looks.
The timeline depends on the type of denture and whether extractions or other preparatory treatments are needed. A full denture is generally made after the teeth are removed and the gum tissue has healed, so the process can take several weeks to months. For implant-supported dentures, the implants must already be placed and sufficiently healed before the final restoration can be completed. Our team will evaluate your situation and provide a clearer estimate of your restoration timeline during your consultation.
Rinse removable dentures after meals, and clean them daily with a soft denture brush and a cleanser made for dentures. Brush your gums, tongue, and any natural teeth, and soak your dentures overnight as directed. Handle them carefully so they do not drop or break, and keep regular checkups so we can monitor the fit. Never try to repair a denture on your own.
Many dental plans cover part of the cost of dentures, although coverage levels, waiting periods, and limits vary. We accept all dental insurance plans except Medicaid and are in network with Delta Dental Premier. Our team can verify your benefits and explain your estimated costs before treatment begins. You can also learn more on our Insurance and Financing page.
