Dentures in North Raleigh
Restore comfort, function, and facial support after tooth loss
Full and partial dentures replace several missing teeth or an entire arch. At Scanlan Family Dentistry in North Raleigh, Dr. Abigail Scanlan considers fit, facial balance, comfort, remaining teeth, gum health, and the support available before recommending a denture design. We explain the laboratory process, adjustment period, and ongoing care before treatment begins.
Request a Denture Evaluation
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable prosthetic teeth designed to replace several missing teeth or all of the teeth in an upper or lower arch. A well-planned denture restores chewing surfaces, supports speech, and helps restore the facial support that changes when teeth are missing.
The appropriate design depends on how many teeth are missing, the condition of the gums and bone, the stability of remaining teeth, and whether additional retention from dental implants is part of the plan.
Why This Service Matters
Replacing missing teeth can support chewing, speech, facial balance, and a more comfortable daily routine.
Restore Everyday Function
Replacing missing teeth can make eating and speaking more comfortable and predictable.
Support Facial Structure
A denture restores tooth volume and support for the lips and cheeks after tooth loss.
Protect the Overall Plan
Partial dentures can help maintain alignment and function when several teeth are missing but useful natural teeth remain.
Types of Dentures
The number of missing teeth, remaining tooth support, gum and bone health, and desired stability guide the design.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures replace several missing teeth while using remaining natural teeth for support.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures replace all teeth in an upper or lower arch and rest on the supporting tissues.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Dental implants placed by a specialist can provide additional retention and stability. Our office coordinates the restorative phase.
How We Provide This Service
We explain the purpose of each step and confirm the plan before treatment begins.
1) Evaluate the Foundation
We examine remaining teeth, supporting tissues, bite relationships, any existing prosthesis, and your goals before recommending a design.
2) Impressions and Records
Detailed impressions and bite records give the dental laboratory the information needed to establish fit and alignment.
3) Try In the Design
Try-in appointments allow us to review tooth position, shade, appearance, and balance before the final denture is completed.
4) Deliver and Adjust
We evaluate the finished denture for fit and function, explain daily care, and arrange follow-up adjustments as the tissues adapt.
What to Expect During Denture Treatment
Dentures are made through a third-party dental laboratory, not fabricated in our office the same day. Impressions, bite records, try-in appointments, and delivery are coordinated across multiple visits. Some patients need preliminary treatment to create a suitable foundation.
An adjustment period is normal. Softer foods and smaller bites can help while eating and speaking become more familiar. Minor soreness, speech changes, or increased salivation may occur initially; follow-up adjustments help improve comfort and stability.
Care Between Visits
Daily denture care and routine examinations remain important even when an arch no longer has natural teeth.
Clean the Denture Daily
Clean the prosthesis every day using the method recommended for its materials and design.
Let Oral Tissues Rest
Removable dentures are generally taken out overnight so the supporting tissues can rest.
Keep Routine Evaluations
Natural tissue changes can alter fit over time, making adjustments, relines, or replacement appropriate.
Related Care
Use these pages to compare connected services and understand where each option fits.
Implant Restoration
Explore Implant Restoration →Dental Bridges
Explore Dental Bridges →Full Mouth Rehabilitation
Explore Full Mouth Rehabilitation →Frequently Asked Questions
Open any question for an answer from the current Scanlan Family Dentistry service page.
Can I eat normally with dentures?
Eating takes practice with a new denture. Softer foods and smaller bites are useful initially, and chewing often becomes easier as you adapt.
Do dentures require maintenance?
Yes. Daily cleaning and routine dental visits help maintain the prosthesis and the health of the supporting tissues. Adjustments or relines may be needed as the tissues change.
What are implant-supported dentures?
They attach to dental implants placed by a specialist for additional stability and reduced movement. Our office coordinates the restorative phase.
How long do dentures last?
Dentures can last many years, but changes in the gums and jawbone can eventually require adjustments, relines, or replacement.
Does insurance cover dentures?
Coverage varies by plan. Our care team can help review available benefits and explain estimated costs before treatment.
What are dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and restore chewing surfaces, speech support, and appearance.
What is the difference between partial and complete dentures?
Partial dentures replace several missing teeth while useful natural teeth remain. Complete dentures replace all teeth in an upper or lower arch. Our tooth replacement guide explains partial and full dentures in more detail, including fit, adjustment, and daily care.
How long does it take to get dentures?
The process includes impressions, bite records, laboratory fabrication, and try-in or delivery visits. Our office uses a third-party laboratory, so dentures are not made the same day and require at least two scheduled visits.
Will dentures look natural?
Tooth shape, shade, position, and gum contours are selected to complement your facial features and restore a balanced appearance.
Will new dentures feel comfortable immediately?
Most people need an adjustment period. Minor soreness or speech changes can occur, and follow-up adjustments help improve fit and comfort.
A Thoughtful, Structured Approach
Denture treatment works best when fit, function, appearance, and future maintenance are planned together. Our North Raleigh care team can help you arrange an evaluation for a first denture or an existing prosthesis, with clear next steps based on your remaining teeth and supporting tissues.
Request a Denture EvaluationLet’s Plan Your Visit
Tell us a little about the visit you need. Our care team will answer your questions and help you schedule with Dr. Scanlan. If a tooth is hurting or your concern is urgent, please call the office.