Losing teeth can feel like losing a piece of your everyday life — the foods you enjoy, the way you speak, and even how you greet the world with a smile. Fortunately, modern dentures offer reliable, attractive solutions that can bring confidence and function back to your daily routine. At Southwest Smiles in Austin, TX, Dr. Lakshmi Chittajallu works with patients to explore both full and partial dentures, helping them understand how each option restores appearance, chewing ability, and overall oral health.
Why Dentures Still Matter — Even in a World With Implants
You might have heard about dental implants and wondered if dentures are outdated. The truth is, dentures remain a trusted, cost‑effective, and versatile option for many people. While implants are a fantastic choice for some, dentures still play an important role — especially for those who:
- Prefer a non‑surgical solution
- Have lost several or all teeth
- Need an affordable, functional replacement
- Are managing bone changes or other oral health factors
Dentures have come a long way from the bulky sets of the past. Today’s prosthetics are more comfortable, natural‑looking, and easier to adapt to — making them a smart choice for many smiles.
Full Dentures: When All Teeth Need Replacement
Full dentures (also called complete dentures) are recommended when all teeth in an arch — upper, lower, or both — are missing or need to be removed. These custom prosthetics rest on your gums and replace the full row of teeth, restoring function and aesthetic balance.
Getting full dentures typically involves a few steps:
- Initial Exam and Measurements: Dr. Chittajallu evaluates your gums and bone structure, takes precise measurements, and discusses your goals.
- Mouth Preparation: If any remaining teeth need extraction, we make sure your gums and jaw are ready for the denture fit.
- Try‑In and Adjustments: Before finalizing, you’ll try a wax model so we can fine‑tune fit and appearance.
- Final Placement: Once perfected, your dentures are crafted and placed with care, and we’ll go over what to expect in the first days of wear.
Full dentures can restore your ability to eat a wide range of foods, speak clearly, and smile confidently. It’s normal to need a short adjustment period as your mouth gets used to the new prosthesis.
Partial Dentures: Filling the Gaps Gracefully
If you’re missing only some teeth, a partial denture can be the solution. Partials usually consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum‑colored base, supported by a metal or acrylic framework that clips onto your existing teeth. They fill in the empty spaces, prevent remaining teeth from drifting, and improve chewing and speech.
Partial dentures are custom‑designed to match your natural teeth, blending seamlessly with your smile. They can be a more affordable alternative to multiple individual restorations and often are quicker to design and fit.
What Denture Wear Feels Like — At First and Over Time
Adapting to dentures is a bit like breaking in a new pair of shoes: it takes a little time, but it gets more comfortable quickly. In the first days or weeks, it’s common to notice:
- Increased saliva flow
- A new feeling or awareness in your mouth
- Slight changes in speech or chewing technique
These sensations tend to fade as you get accustomed to wearing your dentures. Practicing with softer foods at first, speaking aloud to yourself, and keeping follow‑up appointments with Dr. Chittajallu make the transition smoother.
Caring for Your Dentures and Your Natural Tissues
Taking care of your dentures is straightforward, but it’s a habit worth forming:
- Remove and rinse dentures after eating to wash away food debris.
- Brush daily with a denture brush and mild cleanser — avoid regular toothpaste, which can be abrasive.
- Soak them overnight in a denture solution to keep them moist and retain their shape.
- Handle with care — dentures can break if dropped onto hard surfaces.
Equally important is your gum and oral tissue health. Even without natural teeth, your gums benefit from gentle brushing and regular dental checkups. Dr. Chittajallu will check fit and comfort over time, helping prevent sore spots, irritation, or bone changes that can alter how dentures fit.
Why Some Patients Choose Implant-Supported Dentures
For those looking for more security than traditional dentures provide, implant-supported dentures can offer a reliable upgrade. These dentures snap into small titanium posts placed in the jawbone, making them much more stable than traditional options — especially on the lower arch where slipping is more common.
One added benefit? Implant-supported upper dentures don’t need to cover the roof of your mouth, which means a more natural feel and better taste and temperature sensation when you eat and drink.
While not everyone is a candidate, Dr. Chittajallu can assess your bone health and talk through what it would take to consider this option.
Choosing the Right Option
Choosing between full or partial dentures — or exploring implant‑enhanced options — is a personal process. At Southwest Smiles, we take the time to:
- Listen to your priorities and concerns
- Assess your oral health and bone levels
- Discuss function, aesthetics, and lifestyle needs
- Help you make a confident decision that suits both your smile and your comfort
A restored smile is more than a set of replacement teeth. It’s about feeling comfortable eating, laughing, and living life without hesitation.
Dentures and Smile Restoration at Southwest Smiles in Austin, TX
Replacing missing teeth doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Southwest Smiles in Austin, TX, Dr. Lakshmi Chittajallu and our experienced team take time to explain each option clearly — whether you’re considering full dentures, partials, or implant-supported choices. We’re here to answer your questions, help you understand what to expect, and restore your smile with comfort and confidence.
Ready to learn more? Call us today to schedule a consultation.
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0