Dentures in Kennett Square, PA

Missing some or all of your teeth affects more than your smile. It changes how you eat, how you speak, and how confident you feel in everyday conversations.

At Franck Dental, Dr. C. Christian Franck, DDS, has more than 30 years of experience creating custom dentures for patients in Kennett Square and throughout Chester County. Every set we make is designed around your mouth, your bite, and your facial features, so it fits comfortably and looks like your own natural teeth.

Full and Partial Dentures: Which Do You Need?

The right type of denture depends mainly on how many healthy natural teeth you still have.

Partial dentures are a conservative option when you’re missing several teeth but still have healthy ones remaining. A partial fills the gaps in your smile and is anchored in place by your natural teeth. Filling those spaces also keeps your remaining teeth from drifting into them, which protects your bite over time. Depending on your needs, partial dentures can be removable or fixed.

Full dentures replace an entire upper or lower arch of teeth. If any remaining teeth are too damaged or decayed to save, they’re removed first so the denture can sit securely against your gums. Full dentures are made from durable materials built to last for many years. Our goal is always to create dentures that resemble your previous smile, or improve on it.

Not sure which one fits your situation? A thorough exam with diagnostic X-rays lets Dr. Franck see the health of your teeth, gums, and jawbone, so he can recommend the option that makes the most sense for you.

Getting Fitted for Dentures, Step by Step

Getting new dentures usually takes several visits. Here’s what to expect:

1. Consultation and exam. We review your dental history, examine your mouth, and talk about your goals, budget, and any concerns you have about dentures.
2. Preparing your mouth. Some patients need extractions or treatment for gum disease before a denture can be made. If so, we complete that step first and allow time for healing.
3. Impressions and measurements. We take detailed impressions of your gums and any remaining teeth. We also record how your upper and lower jaws meet, so your new teeth line up properly when you bite and chew.
4. Choosing the look. Together we select the shade, shape, and size of your new teeth to complement your face and skin tone.
5. Try-in. Before your final dentures are made, you’ll try on a preliminary model. You can check the fit, appearance, and bite, and request changes.
6. Final fitting and follow-up. Once your dentures are ready, we fit them and make any needed adjustments. Follow-up visits fine-tune the comfort as your mouth adapts.

Adjusting to New Dentures: The First Few Weeks

Even a perfectly made denture takes some getting used to. During the first few weeks, it’s normal for your dentures to feel a little bulky or loose. You may also notice extra saliva and a few sore spots while your cheek muscles and tongue learn to hold them in place.

A few habits make the transition easier:

• Start with soft foods. Cut food into small pieces and chew slowly, using both sides of your mouth to keep the denture stable. Work your way back to firmer foods as you gain confidence.
• Practice speaking. Reading aloud or repeating tricky words helps your mouth adjust faster. Any lisp or clicking usually fades within a couple of weeks.
• Come back for adjustments. Persistent sore spots are a sign that a small adjustment is needed. Please don’t try to reshape or repair your dentures at home. Call us and we’ll take care of it.

Your gums and jawbone naturally change shape over the years. Because of that, dentures may eventually need to be relined or refitted to keep them comfortable and secure.

Caring for Your Dentures

With good daily care, your dentures will stay clean, comfortable, and natural-looking for years:

• Rinse after meals to remove food particles.
• Brush daily with a soft-bristled brush and a denture cleaner. Regular toothpaste is too abrasive and can scratch the surface.
• Soak them overnight in a denture solution or plain water so they don’t dry out and lose their shape, unless Dr. Franck advises otherwise.
• Avoid hot water. It can warp the material.
• Handle with care. When cleaning, hold them over a folded towel or a sink of water in case you drop them.
• Care for your mouth, too. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and any natural teeth every day.

Keep up with regular dental checkups even if you have a full set of dentures. These visits let us check the fit, look for signs of irritation, and screen for oral health problems early.

Dentures vs. Dental Implants

Dentures and implants are both excellent ways to replace missing teeth, but they work differently.

Dentures are removable and non-surgical. They can usually be completed faster than implants and cost less up front, which makes them a practical choice for many patients, especially those replacing a full arch of teeth.

Dental implants are titanium posts placed in the jawbone that act like natural tooth roots. They feel the most like real teeth and help preserve jawbone. They don’t move while you eat, but they do require minor surgery, healing time, and enough healthy bone to support them. They’re also a larger investment.

For patients missing only one or two teeth, a dental bridge may be another option. Dr. Franck will walk you through the pros and cons of each choice based on your health, lifestyle, and budget. You can also ask whether implant-supported dentures could work for you, since they combine elements of both.

What Do Dentures Cost?

Denture cost varies from patient to patient. The main factors are:

• Whether you need partial or full dentures
• Whether you’re replacing one arch or both
• The materials used
• Any preparatory work, such as extractions

Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of dentures. Our team will help you understand your benefits. Before treatment begins, you’ll get a clear estimate, so there are no surprises.

We also offer complimentary consultations, so you can learn your options and costs without any commitment.

Looking for Dentures in Kennett Square? Come See Us

If you’re ready to eat, speak, and smile with confidence again, we’re here to help. Dr. Franck and our team make the denture process comfortable and straightforward from your first visit to your final fitting.

Schedule your complimentary consultation today!