How Dentures Are Made
Columbus, OH
If you have been told that dentures may be the right solution for missing teeth, you probably have questions, not just about how they will look or feel, but about how they are actually created. The process involves skilled craftsmanship, carefully chosen materials, and a close collaboration between you and our dentists. Understanding what goes into making your dentures can help you feel more confident about the process and know what to expect at each step along the way at Raptou Family Dental. What Dentures Are Made OfModern dentures consist of two main components: the base and the teeth. The base, which sits against your gum tissue and mimics the appearance of natural gum tissue, is typically made from acrylic resin. This material is durable, can be precisely shaped to match the contours of your mouth, and is tinted to closely match the color of your natural gums. The artificial teeth attached to the base can be made from acrylic resin or porcelain. Acrylic teeth are lightweight, bond well to the base, and are easier to adjust if modifications are needed later. Porcelain teeth are harder and can provide a more natural appearance, though they require more care in certain situations. Our dentists will discuss which material makes the most sense based on your needs, bite, and lifestyle. The goal is always a result that looks natural, fits comfortably, and holds up to the demands of everyday use. The Initial Appointment and ImpressionsThe denture process begins with a thorough examination. Our dentists will evaluate the health of your gums and any remaining teeth, take X-rays if needed, and discuss what type of dentures are appropriate for you, whether that is a full denture replacing all teeth in an arch, a partial denture that works alongside your remaining natural teeth, or an implant-supported option. Once a treatment plan is established, the next step is taking impressions of your mouth. These impressions capture the precise shape of your gums, your bite alignment, and the dimensions of your jaw. This information is sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians use it as the foundation for building your custom dentures. Accurate impressions are critical, since they directly influence how well your dentures will fit. Our team takes care at this stage to ensure every detail is captured correctly, as even small inaccuracies can affect long-term comfort and function. Bite Registration and Tooth SelectionIn addition to impressions, we will take what is called a bite registration. This records how your upper and lower jaw come together and ensures that your dentures will align properly when you chew and speak. Getting this right is essential to your long-term comfort and helps prevent unnecessary strain on your jaw joints and surrounding muscles. You will also have the opportunity to help choose the size, shape, and shade of your new teeth. Our dentists will guide you through these options with your facial structure and preferences in mind, so your dentures complement your appearance naturally. Many patients are pleasantly surprised by how much input they have in this process. How the Laboratory Builds Your DenturesOnce all measurements and records have been sent to the lab, the technicians begin fabricating your dentures. The process typically unfolds in several stages. First, the lab creates a wax model or trial denture that replicates how your final dentures will look and function. This allows you to preview the fit, appearance, and bite before anything is finalized. At a try-in appointment, we will seat the wax model in your mouth and make any needed adjustments. This step is important because changes are far easier to make at this stage than after the denture is complete. Once the try-in is approved, the lab replaces the wax with the final acrylic base material, sets the teeth into their permanent positions, and finishes and polishes the denture. The result is a custom-fabricated appliance built specifically to the specifications of your mouth. Quality dental laboratories take pride in this work, and the craftsmanship involved in producing a well-made denture is considerable. How Long the Process TakesFrom your first impression appointment to receiving your finished dentures, the process generally takes several weeks. The timeline can vary depending on whether extractions are needed beforehand, which type of denture is being made, and how many try-in appointments are required to get the fit right. Our team will give you a realistic timeframe during your consultation so you can plan accordingly. For patients who require extractions, an immediate denture may be placed the same day teeth are removed. These are fabricated in advance based on pre-extraction measurements and serve as a temporary solution while your gums heal and your permanent denture is being finalized. It is important to be aware that immediate dentures will likely require relining or replacement once healing is complete, since the shape of your gums will change during the months following extractions. What to Expect After DeliveryReceiving your finished dentures is not quite the last step. An adjustment period is normal. Your mouth needs time to adapt to the new appliance, and minor sore spots or fit issues are common in the first few weeks. We will schedule follow-up visits to make any necessary adjustments, ensuring your dentures fit comfortably and function as they should. It is also important to follow proper care instructions from the start. Dentures should be cleaned daily, removed at night, and stored in water or a denture solution to maintain their shape and hygiene. Avoiding hard or sticky foods during the initial adjustment period can also help you acclimate more comfortably. Properly fitted dentures, cared for correctly and checked regularly, can last many years. Routine dental visits remain important even with full dentures, as our dentists will monitor your gum and bone health over time. Changes in jaw structure are natural after tooth loss, and periodic evaluations allow us to address any fit concerns before they become more significant. Schedule a Denture Consultation
If you are considering dentures or want to learn more about your tooth replacement options, we are here to walk you through every step. Contact Raptou Family Dental today at (614) 427-0449 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a comfortable, confident smile. |
 Dr. Raptou and his staff are simply amazing! I have been to many, many dentists over the years and none have come close to providing the excellent care and professional service I experienced with Dr. Raptou and his team! I am one of those people who has always had a major fear of going to the dentist, but not any more thanks to Dr. Raptou!  |
Expect Something DifferentWe are passionate about creating smiles with life-changing results. Our dentists in Columbus, OH believe that continuing education is a natural extension of our desire to provide patients with the best that dental care can offer while maintaining an edge of excellence in our practice.   We recognize that all patients are unique and deserve to receive dental care tailored to their individual needs.Our talented dental team continually strives to provide each patient with a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding experience in our Columbus dentist office. We are pleased to welcome you and your family, and we look forward to working with you. Learn MoreAbout Our Dental Team |
Contact Raptou Family Dental TodayOur Columbus dentists are the first step to a healthier, happier you! |
