Dentures in Tallahassee, FL | Brittney K. Craig, DMD

Modern dentistry offers more ways than ever to replace missing teeth with results that look natural and function well. While options like dental implants and fixed bridgework provide long-term, non-removable solutions for many patients, removable dentures remain a dependable, adaptable choice for restoring a healthy, confident smile.

At the office of Brittney K. Craig, DMD, we combine contemporary materials and careful craftsmanship to create dentures that fit comfortably and support natural facial contours. Our approach emphasizes precise fit, realistic tooth shapes, and durable base materials so patients can speak, smile, and eat with renewed confidence.

Every denture we design starts with a patient-centered plan. We listen to how you use your teeth, what matters most to you about appearance and comfort, and any medical or dental concerns that influence treatment. The result is a prosthesis tailored to your needs and lifestyle rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

Why missing teeth change more than just your smile

Losing one or more teeth affects daily life in ways people often underestimate. Gaps change how your bite distributes forces, which can make chewing less efficient and may lead you to avoid certain foods. Over time, those adjustments can affect nutrition and overall well-being.

Tooth loss also has visible consequences: without the teeth that support lips and cheeks, facial features can look sunken or older. The remaining teeth can drift into empty spaces, leading to misalignment and increased wear. Addressing missing teeth helps preserve the surrounding teeth and maintains a balanced bite.

The emotional impact of tooth loss is significant as well. People commonly report self-consciousness about their appearance or concern about speaking in social situations. Replacing teeth restores function and often improves confidence, which in turn encourages better oral hygiene and follow-up care.

Whether you are missing a single tooth or an entire arch, timely evaluation and planning can prevent secondary issues. Dentures remain a practical and reliable option to restore a complete, functional smile when fixed solutions are not suitable or when a removable approach better matches a patient’s needs.

Brittney K. Craig, DMD | Implant Dentistry, Pediatric Dentistry and Root Canals

Understanding what a denture does and how it works

A denture is a removable dental appliance made up of artificial teeth set into a supportive base that rests on the gums. The base is contoured to follow the shape of the jaw and soft tissues, and the teeth are selected for color, shape, and size to complement your facial features.

Because dentures are removable, they allow patients to maintain oral hygiene of both the appliance and any remaining natural teeth. This ability to remove the prosthesis simplifies cleaning, reduces the risk of trapped food, and makes it easier to monitor the health of the gums and underlying bone.

Removable prostheses are versatile: partial dentures replace several missing teeth while preserving healthy remaining teeth; complete dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Modern materials also allow for lighter, stronger frameworks and more lifelike tooth options than in the past.

Choosing the right type of denture for your situation

Selecting the most appropriate denture begins with a careful clinical evaluation. We review your dental and medical history, examine the condition of any remaining teeth and supporting bone, and discuss your functional and aesthetic priorities. This comprehensive view guides a treatment plan that balances comfort, durability, and appearance.

Two broad categories describe removable prostheses: full (complete) dentures, which replace an entire arch, and partial dentures, which fill in gaps when some healthy teeth remain. Within these categories there are variations and enhancements that can improve fit and stability depending on each patient’s needs.

When a full denture is recommended, the timing of placement and the condition of oral tissues influence the approach. If teeth require extraction, we plan for healing and may suggest options that maintain function during the transition. For partial dentures, the design will respect the remaining teeth and use attachments or clasps to secure the appliance.

Complete denture approaches and adaptations

Complete dentures replace all teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, or both. The goal is a comfortable, stable prosthesis that restores function while supporting facial tissues. Designs differ according to tissue anatomy, bite relationships, and the patient’s expectations for form and function.

Traditional full dentures and transitional solutions

Traditional full dentures are fabricated after any extractions have healed, allowing the soft tissues to settle and enabling a precise final fit. This method often leads to long-term comfort and predictable function because the denture is made to match the healed shape of the mouth.

Immediate denture

An immediate denture is inserted the same day teeth are removed so the patient does not go without teeth during healing. While this approach preserves appearance and basic function, adjustments are commonly needed as tissues change during recovery.
Overdenture

An overdenture gains retention and support from remaining tooth roots or specially placed attachments. When suitable teeth or attachments are preserved, an overdenture can improve stability and help maintain bone levels.
Implant-supported dentures

Implant-supported dentures connect to a small number of dental implants placed in the jaw. These implant attachments greatly increase retention and reduce movement, making chewing easier and often improving patient confidence.

Partial dentures: bridging gaps while protecting remaining teeth

Partial dentures are designed to replace one or several missing teeth while preserving the natural teeth that remain. They use clasps, precision attachments, or custom frameworks to distribute forces evenly and prevent unwanted shifting of the adjacent teeth.

Today’s partials can be crafted from a variety of materials, such as cast metal frameworks, flexible resins, or hybrid combinations that balance strength with comfort. The design takes into account chewing dynamics, hygiene access, and aesthetic goals.

Beyond restoring appearance, a well-made partial denture helps maintain proper tooth alignment and bite relationships, reducing the risk of future complications that can arise from drifting or overeruption of opposing teeth.

Our clinical team focuses on designing partials and complete dentures that integrate with your remaining oral structures. We emphasize retention, ease of hygiene, and realistic tooth selection so the prosthesis complements your smile and daily activities.

Brittney K. Craig, DMD | Pediatric Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry and Teeth Whitening

How we plan and deliver prosthetic care

Crafting a successful denture requires more than impressions and laboratory work — it requires an understanding of facial aesthetics, bite mechanics, and how the prosthesis will function in real life. We combine careful clinical examination with thoughtful communication so each appliance supports chewing, speech, and appearance.

Diagnostic imaging and a thorough review of your dental history help us determine whether preparatory procedures are needed. If extractions or tissue shaping are necessary, we schedule those steps to support the best possible final fit and long-term comfort.

The fabrication process often includes multiple appointments: initial records and impressions, try-ins to verify tooth position and bite, and final insertion with tailored adjustments. Taking the time to refine each stage improves long-term fit and reduces the need for extensive corrections later.

We also discuss options for improving retention, such as precision attachments or implant support, when appropriate. These enhancements can make dentures feel more secure and help patients enjoy a wider range of foods with confidence.

Brittney K. Craig, DMD | Pediatric Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers and Oral Exams

Adapting to your new denture: practical guidance and expectations

Receiving a new denture is a process of adjustment. Your mouth needs time to adapt to the presence of a prosthesis, and minor sore spots or looseness are common early on. We schedule follow-up visits to fine-tune the fit so your denture becomes comfortable and functional.

Easing into daily wear

It’s normal to introduce a new denture gradually. Wearing it most of the day to begin allows us to identify pressure areas that require relief. If you experience discomfort, wearing the denture briefly until your adjustment appointment helps us see the precise spots that need attention.
Temporary increase in saliva

A transient rise in salivation is a common response to a new appliance. This typically subsides as your oral tissues get used to the denture, and it’s not a sign of a problem.
Speech practice

Speaking clearly may feel unfamiliar at first, especially with a full upper denture. Reading aloud, practicing common phrases, and maintaining regular conversation will hasten adaptation.
Gradual dietary changes

Start with soft, easy-to-chew foods and cut items into smaller pieces. Use both sides of your mouth to chew and avoid sticky or very hard foods at first. As comfort increases, your chewing range will expand.
Daily care and hygiene

Keeping the denture clean reduces staining and bacterial buildup. Rinse after meals, brush the appliance with a denture brush, and soak it overnight as recommended. Also care for any remaining teeth and gum tissues with gentle brushing.
- Store dentures in water when not in use to prevent warping.
- Brush natural teeth and gums daily to preserve oral health.
- Take the denture out at night so the tissues can rest and recover.
Improving retention

While adhesives can help in some cases, many patients benefit from implant attachments or precision housings that secure the denture more reliably. We will outline which options are appropriate during your consultation.
Regular follow-up and maintenance

Periodic checkups let us monitor fit, assess tissue changes, and perform a comprehensive oral exam. These visits help catch issues early and ensure your denture continues to perform well.
Relines and adjustments

As the jaw and gums change over time, the fit of a denture may loosen. Relining or rebasing the appliance restores close contact with the tissues and improves comfort without replacing the entire denture.

At our practice, we aim to provide clear information, careful planning, and ongoing support so each denture serves you well for years. If you have questions about whether a removable denture is right for you or want to learn more about the options we offer, please contact us for more information.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

What are dentures and how do they work?

A denture is a removable dental appliance that replaces missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. The device consists of artificial teeth set into a contoured base that rests on the gums and follows the shape of the jaw. Tooth color, shape, and position are selected to complement facial features and restore a natural appearance.

Dentures restore basic chewing and speaking function while supporting the lips and cheeks to preserve facial contours. Because they are removable, patients can clean both the appliance and any remaining natural teeth more easily, which helps reduce trapped food and bacterial buildup. Modern materials and laboratory techniques produce lightweight, durable prostheses that perform well for many daily activities.

Who is a good candidate for dentures?

Good candidates for dentures include people who are missing several teeth or an entire arch and who prefer a removable solution or are not suitable candidates for fixed restorations. The decision depends on the condition of remaining teeth, the amount of supporting bone, overall health, and personal goals for appearance and function. During a clinical evaluation we consider medical history, oral health, and how you use your teeth in everyday life.

At the office of Brittney K. Craig, DMD we tailor recommendations to each patient, balancing comfort, durability, and aesthetic expectations. Some patients choose dentures as a transitional option while healing from extractions, while others select overdentures or implant-retained designs to maximize stability. A candid discussion about lifestyle, hygiene, and long-term care helps determine the best prosthetic approach.

What types of dentures are available?

Removable prostheses fall into two main categories: complete (full) dentures, which replace all teeth in an upper or lower arch, and partial dentures, which fill gaps when natural teeth remain. Complete dentures rely on tissue support and careful fit for retention, while partials use clasps, precision attachments, or custom frameworks to integrate with the remaining teeth. Materials range from acrylic bases and composite teeth to metal frameworks and flexible resins that balance strength and comfort.

Variations include immediate dentures placed at the time of extraction, overdentures that gain support from preserved roots or attachments, and implant-supported removable dentures that anchor to dental implants for increased retention. Each design has advantages depending on anatomy, chewing needs, and patient preferences, and we review these options during your consultation to determine the most appropriate solution.

How are dentures designed and fabricated?

Designing a successful denture begins with a thorough clinical examination, diagnostic imaging, and a review of dental history to identify any preparatory procedures needed. Precise impressions and bite records capture the jaw relationships and soft tissue contours, and tooth size, shape, and color are selected to complement facial aesthetics. Laboratory technicians use these records to create wax try-ins that let you and the dentist evaluate appearance and function before final processing.

The fabrication process typically includes try-in appointments to verify tooth position and occlusion, followed by final processing and careful insertion with immediate adjustments as needed. Proper fit often requires follow-up visits to relieve pressure areas and refine bite relationships so the denture functions comfortably. Long-term maintenance, such as relines or rebasing, is planned to accommodate tissue changes and preserve close contact with the gums.

When implants or precision attachments are part of the plan, the workflow integrates surgical placement and healing time with prosthetic steps so the final appliance fits securely. Coordination between the clinical team and the dental laboratory improves predictability and ensures the denture supports speech, chewing, and a natural appearance. Clear communication about expectations and staged appointments helps patients feel informed throughout the process.

What is the difference between immediate, traditional and implant-supported dentures?

Traditional full dentures are fabricated after extraction sites have healed, allowing the soft tissues to settle and enabling a precise final fit that often offers long-term comfort. Immediate dentures are inserted on the same day teeth are removed so a patient does not go without teeth during the healing period, but they typically require adjustments or relining as tissues change. Each approach has trade-offs between immediate appearance and the need for subsequent refinements.

Implant-supported dentures use dental implants to anchor the prosthesis and significantly increase retention and stability compared with tissue-supported designs. Implant attachments reduce movement, improve chewing efficiency, and can slow bone loss in the jaw by transmitting functional forces to the bone. Selection among these options depends on bone quality, medical considerations, and the patient’s goals for function and maintenance.

How should I care for and clean my dentures?

Daily cleaning keeps dentures free of staining and bacterial buildup and helps protect oral tissues. Rinse a denture after meals to remove loose debris, brush the appliance gently with a soft denture brush and nonabrasive cleanser, and soak it overnight in a recommended solution or water to preserve shape and hygiene. Avoid hot water and abrasive toothpaste, which can damage denture surfaces and reduce fit over time.

Equally important is caring for any remaining natural teeth and the gums; brush and floss daily and maintain regular dental checkups to monitor tissue health. Store dentures in water when not in use to prevent warping, and bring the prosthesis to appointments so the dentist can evaluate wear and fit. If you use an adhesive, follow product directions and discuss appropriate use with your clinician to ensure safe, effective results.

How do I adapt to eating and speaking with new dentures?

Adapting to a new denture is a gradual process that typically begins with short periods of wear and progresses as tissues and muscles adjust. Start with soft, easy-to-chew foods cut into small pieces and chew on both sides of the mouth to distribute forces evenly. Avoid sticky or very hard foods at first, and increase variety as comfort and confidence improve.

Speech may feel unfamiliar initially, particularly with a full upper denture, but practice helps restore clarity; reading aloud and repeating challenging words can expedite adaptation. Expect a temporary increase in saliva and occasional sore spots, and schedule follow-up visits to address pressure areas and fine-tune fit so speaking and eating become more natural over time.

How long do dentures last and when do they need adjustments?

The lifespan of a denture depends on material wear, changes in the jaw and gum tissues, and how well the appliance is cared for, with many prostheses serving patients comfortably for several years. Over time, normal bone remodeling and tissue changes can loosen the fit, reducing function and retention and increasing the risk of sore spots. Regular assessments let the dentist determine whether relining, rebasing, or replacement is the best course to restore close contact and comfort.

Adjustments are common in the months after insertion and can usually be handled quickly in the dental office to relieve pressure or correct bite issues. Routine follow-up visits allow for preventive maintenance, early detection of wear or damage, and monitoring of oral health. If a denture becomes repeatedly loose, breaks, or causes persistent discomfort, a more comprehensive repair or a new prosthesis may be recommended.

What options improve denture retention and stability?

Improving retention begins with an accurate fit and proper border seal, but additional strategies can enhance stability for many patients. Precision attachments, well-designed clasps, and overdentures that use preserved tooth roots or root-facing attachments can provide extra support and help distribute chewing forces more evenly. Simple solutions such as professional relines or adjustments can also restore close tissue contact and reduce movement.

For patients seeking significantly greater security, implant-supported removable dentures or fixed prostheses provide superior retention by anchoring the appliance to implants placed in the jaw. These options increase chewing efficiency and patient confidence and are considered when bone volume and oral health allow. During your consultation we review which retention methods best match your anatomy, function, and long-term goals.

When should I schedule follow-up visits and what happens during them?

Follow-up visits are typically scheduled soon after insertion to check fit, relieve any sore spots, and confirm bite relationships, with additional appointments as needed during the first few months. After the initial adjustment period, periodic checkups every six to twelve months allow the dentist to monitor tissue changes, assess wear, and perform oral health exams that include checking for decay or soft tissue issues. Bringing the denture to these appointments enables direct inspection and any necessary adjustments or repairs.

The clinical team will evaluate how the appliance performs during everyday activities and recommend relines, rebasing, or other maintenance when indicated. Promptly contact the office if you experience persistent pain, loose fit, or sudden changes in function so problems can be addressed before they worsen. The practice of Brittney K. Craig, DMD emphasizes ongoing support and clear communication to help each denture serve its intended function for years to come.

Dentures