Dentures and Partial Dentures in Columbia, SC
Losing teeth can change more than your smile. It can affect what you feel comfortable eating, how you speak, and how freely you laugh or socialize. If you've been working around missing teeth or an uncomfortable denture for longer than you'd like, you don't have to keep managing it on your own.
At The Palms Denture and Implant Center, dentures are a central part of what we do. Dr. Smith provides both full and partial dentures and takes the time to understand what you need before recommending a treatment plan.
We also offer implant-supported options for people who want additional stability or a more permanent approach. We'll explain how those options compare with conventional dentures so you can decide what makes sense for your needs, goals, and budget.
Schedule a consultation with us at The Palms Denture and Implant Center by calling (803) 604-4440
Quick Takeaways
- Full dentures replace an entire upper or lower arch of missing teeth.
- Partial dentures replace missing teeth while working around your remaining natural teeth.
- Denture treatment involves several steps, including evaluation, impressions, try-ins, delivery, and adjustments.
- An adjustment period is normal when you begin wearing a new denture.
- We discuss costs, insurance, and payment options before treatment begins.
- Conventional dentures can also be a starting point if you're considering implant-supported dentures in the future.
Are Dentures the Right Choice for You?
Dentures can be an appropriate way to replace missing teeth when you have lost an entire arch or when some of your remaining teeth cannot be saved.
A full denture may be appropriate if:
- You have lost all of the teeth in an upper or lower arch.
- Your remaining teeth are no longer healthy enough to preserve and need to be removed.
- You want a conventional tooth-replacement option without implants.
A partial denture may be appropriate when you still have natural teeth that are healthy enough to keep. Rather than replacing an entire arch, a partial fills the spaces left by missing teeth and is designed to work with your remaining teeth.
There is also no requirement that you choose your forever solution on the first visit. Some people begin with conventional dentures and later decide to explore implant-supported dentures for additional stability. We'll help you understand what each option involves so you can make that decision based on your circumstances.
What the Denture Process Looks Like
Getting a new denture is a process rather than a single appointment. We want to make sure your denture fits well, looks natural, and works comfortably for your needs.
1. Your Consultation
We begin with a thorough evaluation of your mouth, gums, existing teeth, and health history. We'll talk about what you're experiencing and what you'd like your new denture to accomplish.
If extractions are necessary, we'll explain what needs to happen before your final denture is made. People who have recently had teeth removed may also need time to heal before final impressions can be taken.
2. Impressions
Once we're ready to move forward, we take the impressions needed to create your denture. These records help the dental laboratory fabricate an appliance designed to fit your mouth.
3. Try-In Appointments
Before the final denture is completed, you'll have an opportunity to see and evaluate the proposed teeth. We can assess the appearance, fit, and bite and make adjustments as needed before the denture is finalized.
We work with highly qualified dental laboratories because the quality of the laboratory work is an important part of the final result.
4. Delivery and Adjustments
When your denture is ready, we'll make sure you're comfortable with the fit and understand how to care for it.
Some adjustment is normal during the first few weeks. Your mouth needs time to get used to having a new appliance, and you may notice changes in speaking, eating, or how the denture feels.
If you develop sore spots or the denture doesn't feel right, let us know. Follow-up adjustments are a normal part of getting comfortable with a new denture.
How Long Does It Take to Get Used to Dentures?
The timeline for making your denture depends on your individual treatment plan. From the initial evaluation through impressions, try-ins, fabrication, and delivery, the process generally takes several weeks.
If you've recently had teeth removed, healing can affect the timing of your final denture. We account for that when planning your treatment rather than rushing the process.
Once you receive your denture, give yourself time to adjust. Speaking may feel different at first, and eating can require some practice. You may also experience minor soreness or areas that need adjustment.
That's why follow-up appointments matter. We'll listen to your feedback, evaluate how the denture is fitting, and make adjustments when needed.
Cost, Insurance, and Payment Options
We believe you should understand the financial side of treatment before you decide to move forward.
The cost of dentures varies based on several factors, including:
- Whether you need a full or partial denture
- The materials selected for your case
- Whether extractions or other treatment are needed beforehand
- The type of denture or implant-supported option you choose
If you're comparing conventional dentures with implant-supported dentures, we're happy to discuss both options during your consultation. We'll explain what each treatment involves and how the costs differ so you can consider the options within your budget.
We accept dental insurance and will work with your plan where applicable. Financing options are also available for people who prefer to spread treatment costs over time.
For current pricing information, call The Palms Denture and Implant Center at (803) 604-4440.
Why Choose The Palms for Dentures?
Dentures aren't an occasional service at The Palms Denture and Implant Center. They're a core part of our practice, along with implant treatment and other forms of tooth replacement.
That focus matters when you're working through a treatment that involves more than simply replacing missing teeth. We consider fit, appearance, function, your remaining natural teeth, and any future treatment you may be considering.
We also work with highly qualified dental laboratories to fabricate our dentures and stand behind the work we provide. If adjustments are needed after delivery, we'll continue working with you to address fit and comfort.
And if you're interested in implant-supported dentures, you can explore that option with the same team. You don't have to decide between conventional and implant-supported treatment before you've had a chance to understand how each approach would apply to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between full and partial dentures?
A full denture replaces all of the teeth in an upper or lower arch. A partial denture replaces some missing teeth while working around your remaining natural teeth. We'll evaluate the health of your existing teeth before determining which type of denture is appropriate.
What happens to my jawbone when I wear dentures?
The bone that once supported your natural tooth roots can gradually change after tooth loss because it no longer receives the same stimulation from those roots. This can affect how a denture fits over time.
What's the difference between traditional dentures and implant-supported dentures?
Implants provide a different type of support because they are placed in the jawbone. If you're considering implant-supported dentures, we'll explain how that approach differs from conventional dentures.
Can I switch from conventional dentures to implant-supported dentures later?
In many cases, conventional dentures can be a starting point before exploring implant-supported treatment. Whether implants are appropriate depends on factors such as your oral health, available bone, overall health, and treatment goals. We can discuss it during your initial consultation.
How do I know if my dentures fit correctly?
A properly fitting denture should feel reasonably secure and should not routinely cause painful sore spots. If your denture moves excessively, causes recurring irritation, or has become uncomfortable over time, it's worth having the fit evaluated.
How long do dentures last?
The lifespan of a denture varies depending on the appliance, your oral health, how you care for it, and how your mouth changes over time. Even a well-maintained denture may eventually need adjustment, relining, repair, or replacement.
Ready to Talk About Your Options?
If you've been living with missing teeth or an uncomfortable denture, your first appointment is an opportunity to understand what can be done.
We'll evaluate your situation, explain your options, discuss the expected process and cost, and help you determine whether a full denture, partial denture, or implant-supported option makes sense for you.
Call The Palms Denture and Implant Center at (803) 604-4440 to schedule a consultation in Columbia, SC.
