Eat, Speak and Smile Confidently With Custom Tooth Replacement
Missing several or all of your teeth can make everyday activities like eating, speaking and smiling more difficult. Custom dentures and partial dentures can help restore your smile, improve chewing function and provide support for your lips and cheeks.
At Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill, we provide personalized dentures in Austin, TX, for patients who need to replace multiple missing teeth. Dr. Benjamin Sharfae, DDS, has provided dentures and removable prosthetic treatment since 2001, combining extensive restorative experience with careful attention to fit, function and appearance.
Whether you need a full set of dentures, a partial denture to replace several teeth or a replacement for an existing appliance, our team can help you explore your options.
Ready to restore your smile? Call 512-301-9002 today to schedule a denture consultation at Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill.
What Are Dentures and Partial Dentures?
Dentures are custom-made dental appliances that replace missing teeth and some of the surrounding gum tissue. They are designed to improve appearance, restore aspects of oral function and help patients feel more comfortable with their smiles.
Dentures may replace all the teeth in an upper or lower arch or fill spaces where several teeth are missing.
Unlike natural teeth, conventional removable dentures rest on the gums and surrounding oral structures. Their stability depends on factors such as the shape of your jaw, remaining teeth, denture design and fit.
At Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill, we evaluate your oral health, tooth replacement needs and preferences before recommending a denture option.
Types of Dentures Available
Different denture designs serve different needs. The appropriate choice depends on how many teeth are missing, the condition of your remaining teeth and the support available for the appliance.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures, also called full dentures, replace all the teeth in the upper jaw, lower jaw or both.
They consist of artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored base that rests against the oral tissues.
Complete dentures can help restore your smile, support facial appearance and improve your ability to chew and speak.
Upper dentures may receive additional retention from the shape of the palate, while lower dentures can be more challenging to stabilize because of tongue movement and jaw anatomy.
Some patients benefit from denture adhesives or additional adjustments to improve comfort and retention.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures replace several missing teeth while using the remaining natural teeth and oral tissues for support.
Depending on the design, partial dentures may include a metal framework, flexible components or other dental materials.
They help fill spaces left by missing teeth and may improve chewing function, appearance and the stability of the remaining dental arch.
Our dentists evaluate the health of your existing teeth and gums before recommending a partial denture.
Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures are designed to be placed shortly after remaining teeth are extracted, allowing patients to avoid going without replacement teeth during the initial healing period.
Because the gums and jawbone change shape after extractions, immediate dentures often require adjustments, relining or eventual replacement.
Your dentist can determine whether this approach is appropriate for your treatment plan.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Dental implants may be used to provide additional support and retention for certain denture designs.
Implant-supported dentures can be removable or fixed, depending on the restoration and treatment plan.
They may offer greater stability than conventional dentures, particularly for patients who have difficulty keeping lower dentures secure.
Dr. Benjamin Sharfae provides dental implant placement and denture treatment. Our team can discuss whether implant-supported tooth replacement is appropriate for your oral health and goals.
Learn more about our dental implant services and the available tooth replacement options.
Benefits of Custom Dentures
Well-designed dentures can improve several aspects of daily life for patients with missing teeth.
- Restore your smile: Artificial teeth are selected and arranged to complement your facial features and natural appearance.
- Improve chewing function: Dentures can help patients eat a wider variety of foods, although chewing efficiency may differ from natural teeth.
- Support clearer speech: Replacing missing teeth may improve pronunciation of certain sounds.
- Improve facial support: Dentures help support the lips and cheeks where tooth loss has affected facial contours.
- Replace multiple teeth: Full and partial dentures provide options for different patterns of tooth loss.
- Personalized fit: Custom appliances are designed around your oral anatomy and restorative needs.
Dentures require an adjustment period, and their fit can change over time. Regular dental visits help maintain comfort and function.
What to Expect When Getting Dentures
Creating custom dentures involves evaluating your oral health, designing the appliance and making adjustments to achieve an appropriate fit.
1. Denture Consultation
Your dentist examines your gums, remaining teeth, jaw and bite while discussing your concerns and treatment goals.
We evaluate whether complete dentures, partial dentures or another tooth replacement option would best meet your needs.
If extractions or other dental treatment are necessary, those procedures will be discussed before moving forward.
2. Impressions and Denture Design
Detailed impressions and measurements are taken to capture the shape of your mouth and establish appropriate tooth positioning.
Our practice uses digital impression technology when suitable, although conventional impressions may be needed for certain denture procedures.
Your dentist also considers tooth shade, size, bite relationships and facial support.
3. Denture Try-In and Adjustments
Depending on the type of denture, a trial version may be used to evaluate tooth appearance, positioning and bite before the final appliance is completed.
This stage allows our team to assess the design and make necessary changes.
4. Final Denture Placement
When your dentures are ready, your dentist checks their fit, stability and bite.
We explain how to insert and remove the appliance, clean it properly and adapt to eating and speaking with dentures.
Follow-up adjustments may be necessary as your mouth adapts.
Adjusting to New Dentures
New dentures often feel unfamiliar at first. Your tongue, cheeks and jaw muscles need time to adapt to the appliance.
During the adjustment period, you may experience:
- Increased saliva production
- Minor changes in speech
- Difficulty chewing certain foods
- A sensation of fullness in the mouth
- Temporary sore spots that require adjustment
Start with softer foods cut into small pieces, chew slowly and use both sides of your mouth when possible.
Reading aloud can also help you become accustomed to speaking with dentures.
If your dentures cause persistent pain, significant irritation or difficulty eating, contact our office. Do not attempt to reshape or adjust the appliance yourself.
How to Care for Dentures and Partial Dentures
Proper daily care helps maintain your dentures and protect your oral tissues.
- Remove and clean removable dentures daily using an appropriate denture cleanser and brush.
- Rinse dentures after meals when possible.
- Avoid abrasive toothpaste and hot water, which can damage certain denture materials.
- Clean your gums, tongue and any remaining natural teeth every day.
- Store removable dentures according to your dentist’s instructions when not being worn.
- Remove dentures while sleeping unless your dentist specifically advises otherwise.
- Schedule regular dental examinations to evaluate fit, oral tissues and remaining teeth.
Dentures may need periodic adjustments or relining because the gums and jawbone naturally change after tooth loss.
How Much Do Dentures Cost in Austin, TX?
The cost of dentures depends on the type of appliance, materials used and complexity of treatment.
Factors that may affect cost include:
- Complete dentures versus partial dentures
- The number of teeth being replaced
- Materials and appliance design
- Extractions or other preparatory treatment
- Whether dental implants are involved
- Adjustments or additional restorative procedures
Dental insurance may provide benefits for certain denture services, depending on the plan.
During your consultation, our team can explain the recommended treatment and associated costs before you make a decision.
Why Choose Our Austin Dentists for Dentures?
Comfortable, functional dentures require an understanding of oral anatomy, bite relationships, restorative materials and the changes that occur after tooth loss.
At Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill, our dentists bring decades of restorative experience to personalized tooth replacement planning.
Dr. Benjamin Sharfae, DDS
Dr. Benjamin Sharfae graduated from Indiana University School of Dentistry in 2001 and has provided dentures and removable prosthetic treatment since beginning his dental career.
His experience also includes crowns, bridges, dental implants and full-mouth rehabilitation.
He has provided dental implant services since approximately 2006 and has placed implants since 2018, allowing him to evaluate both conventional and implant-supported tooth replacement options.
Dr. Benjamin Sharfae also taught preclinical and clinical dentistry at Indiana University School of Dentistry for two years.
Dr. Maggie Sharfae, DDS
Dr. Maggie Sharfae graduated from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Dental School in 1999 and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the VA Medical Center in Indianapolis from 1999 to 2000.
She has extensive experience in restorative dentistry, including crowns, bridges, implant restorations and comprehensive treatment planning.
Both dentists are members of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association and Capital Area Dental Society.
Our privately owned practice emphasizes continuity of care, attention to detail and collaboration with experienced dental laboratories when appropriate.
Dentures and Partials in Oak Hill and Southwest Austin
Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill provides denture consultations and restorative dental care for patients in Austin, Oak Hill, Southwest Austin and surrounding communities.
Whether you need your first set of dentures, are considering replacing an older appliance or want to explore implant-supported options, our team can help you understand your choices.
We focus on creating personalized treatment plans that address appearance, comfort and everyday function.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures
How much do dentures cost in Austin, TX?
Denture costs depend on whether you need complete or partial dentures, the materials used and any additional procedures required. Implant-supported dentures involve different treatment costs. Our team can explain your recommended options and associated costs during your consultation.
What is the difference between full and partial dentures?
Full dentures replace all the teeth in an upper or lower arch. Partial dentures replace several missing teeth while using remaining natural teeth and oral tissues for support. The appropriate option depends on how many teeth are missing and the condition of your remaining teeth.
How long do dentures last?
Complete dentures often require replacement after approximately five to 10 years, although individual needs vary. Changes in the gums and jawbone may require adjustments or relining sooner. Regular dental examinations help determine when maintenance or replacement is needed.
Are dentures comfortable to wear?
Custom dentures are designed for your mouth, but an adjustment period is normal. Some patients experience temporary soreness or difficulty chewing. Follow-up adjustments can help improve comfort and fit.
Can I eat normally with dentures?
Dentures can improve chewing ability, although they may not provide the same biting force as natural teeth. Most patients adapt by starting with softer foods and gradually introducing different textures. Certain hard or sticky foods may remain difficult.
Do I need to remove my dentures at night?
Removable dentures are generally taken out during sleep to give oral tissues a rest and allow proper cleaning. Your dentist will provide instructions based on your appliance and individual oral health needs.
Are implant-supported dentures better than traditional dentures?
Implant-supported dentures may provide greater stability and retention, particularly for lower dentures. However, they require surgery, adequate bone support and ongoing maintenance. Our dentists can help determine which option is appropriate for your needs.
Where can I get dentures in Oak Hill, Austin?
Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill provides complete and partial denture treatment for patients in Oak Hill, Southwest Austin and surrounding communities. Dr. Benjamin Sharfae has provided dentures and removable prosthetics since 2001. Call our office to schedule a consultation.
Restore Your Smile With Custom Dentures
Missing teeth do not have to prevent you from enjoying meals, speaking comfortably or sharing your smile.
At Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill, our experienced dental team provides personalized complete and partial dentures designed around your oral health, comfort and appearance.
Whether you need full dentures, partial dentures or want to explore implant-supported tooth replacement, we can help you understand your options.
Ready to smile with confidence again? Contact our office or call 512-301-9002 today to schedule a denture consultation with Dr. Benjamin Sharfae or Dr. Maggie Sharfae in Austin, Texas.