Removable Dentures

Complete (Full) Dentures

Complete dentures are recommended when all teeth in an arch — upper, lower, or both — are missing or need to be removed. They sit directly on the gum tissue and are held in place by suction and the natural contours of your mouth.

At Hoyos & Pinto, complete dentures are fabricated through a multi-step process that includes detailed impressions, bite registration, and a try-in appointment — so you can see and approve how your dentures look and feel before they are finalized. We pay close attention to:

• Tooth shade and shape selection to complement your facial features
• Proper vertical dimension to support your lips and facial structure
• Bite alignment to ensure comfortable, even chewing
• Custom fit to minimize rocking, slipping, or discomfort

Partial Dentures

When some natural teeth remain, a partial denture fills in the gaps left by missing teeth — restoring chewing function and preventing remaining teeth from shifting out of position. Partial dentures are custom-made to blend with your existing teeth and typically attach to them with small clasps or precision attachments.

We offer both:

• Cast metal framework partials — durable, thin, and precisely fitted
• Metal-free polymer partials — strong, esthetic frame for a more discreet appearance
  

The right type of partial denture depends on the number and location of missing teeth, the health and position of your remaining teeth, and your personal preference for comfort and aesthetics.

Immediate Dentures

If teeth need to be extracted, you don't have to go without teeth during the healing process. Immediate dentures are fabricated in advance and inserted the same day your teeth are removed. They serve as a functional and aesthetic placeholder while your gums heal and reshape.

It's important to understand that immediate dentures will typically require relining or replacement after healing is complete — since the gum and bone change shape significantly in the months following extraction. We walk you through this process and plan for it from the start.

For patients who want the stability and confidence of implants without a fully fixed restoration, implant-supported dentures offer an excellent middle ground. Two to four dental implants are placed in the jawbone, and the denture snaps securely onto them — eliminating the movement and adhesive dependence of traditional removable dentures.

Implant-supported dentures are removable for cleaning but feel dramatically more secure during wear. Many patients describe the difference as life-changing — being able to eat, laugh, and speak without worrying about their teeth.

Not sure whether fixed implants (AO4 or ZB6) or implant-supported dentures are right for you? We'll walk through every option at your consultation and help you find the solution that fits your anatomy, lifestyle, and goals.

Caring for Your Dentures

With proper care, removable dentures can provide years of comfortable function. We'll provide personalized guidance, but general best practices include:

• Remove and rinse dentures after eating
• Brush dentures daily with a soft denture brush — not regular toothpaste, which is too abrasive
• Soak dentures overnight in a denture-safe solution to keep them from drying out
• Continue to brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth each day
• Handle dentures over a folded towel or basin of water — they can crack if dropped
• Schedule regular checkups so we can monitor fit, function, and your oral tissue health
  

Bone naturally changes shape over time after tooth loss, so even well-made dentures may eventually need to be relined or replaced. Regular visits allow us to catch these changes early and adjust your dentures before they cause discomfort or damage.