Why Do People Need Dentures?
Losing teeth can happen slowly or all at once, either way, it’s tough. It affects more than just your ability to chew, it touches your confidence, the way you smile in photos, how you talk, and even how you feel when you look into the mirror.
So, when your dentist says, “Let’s talk dentures,” your brain probably goes straight to:
“Okay…but what kind?”
“How much do they cost?”
“Will they look fake?”
“Am I too young for this?”
You are not the only one who has these thoughts. We talk about this every day with our patients here at North Barrie Dental. Our goal is to make it simple, like really simple for you to understand the difference between complete dentures and partial dentures.
So let’s break it down.
First things first, what are dentures?
Dentures are replacement teeth. They are custom-made to fit your mouth, help you chew, speak, and smile. They make you feel like you again.
Some people need a full set because they’ve lost all their teeth on the top, bottom, or both. Others only need to replace a few missing teeth here and there.
That’s where the two main types come in: Complete dentures and partial dentures.
What are complete dentures?
Complete dentures (sometimes called full dentures) are made for people who don’t have any natural teeth left on the top or bottom jaw. They do exactly what they sound like: Give you a full, beautiful set of teeth.
At North Barrie Dental, we make complete dentures that are shaped just for your mouth. They sit snugly on your gums, and you can take them out to clean at night. Forget the bulky, unnatural dentures of decades past, these are modern, discreet, and comfortable.
They are lightweight, comfortable, and made to look just like your real teeth, sometimes even better. If you’ve already had all your teeth removed, or if your remaining ones can’t be saved, we’ll likely talk about complete dentures first. And don’t worry, you’ll be part of every decision, every step of the way.
What About Partial Dentures?
Let’s say you still have a few good teeth left, and they are strong, so there’s no need to pull them out. That’s where partial dentures come in.
When you wear partial dentures, they go in between your normal teeth. They are made to match your smile and fit securely in place with the help of your own teeth. We often recommend removable partial dentures because they are easy to take out, clean, and adjust if needed.
There are types of dentures which are made from metal and acrylic, and some are bendable. Some patients prefer the strength of metal. Others love the feel of flexible dentures, they bend a little and feel soft against your gums.
So What’s The Real Difference Between Partial And Complete Dentures?
Here is the difference:
- If you’ve lost all your teeth in one area, you need complete dentures
- If you still have some good teeth left, then partial dentures are your go-to.
That’s it.
Both of them are removable dentures, they can be made with flexible or traditional materials. In addition, they both make you able to eat, smile, talk, and feel like yourself again.
The goal of these dentures is not just to fill your mouth with teeth, but it’s to bring back your confidence.
Types of Dentures
As I said earlier, there are different types of dentures, so here they are:
- Complete Dentures (aka full dentures): These are mainly used for people who have most, if not all, teeth missing
- Partial Dentures: You can get these if only some of your teeth are missing
- Removable Partial Dentures: These are exactly how they sound. They are easy to take out and clean
- Flexible Dentures: These are soft and comfortable, especially for those who have sensitive gums
- Implant-supported Dentures: They attach to implants in your jaws for them to get an extra grip
We’ll help you pick the type that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
How much do dentures cost?
Money matters, and nobody wants to spend a lot of money on poor-quality dentures. To give you a general idea of what to expect, here it is:
- Complete dentures usually cost between $1,000 – $3,000 per arch
- Partial dentures typically run from $700 – $2,500
- You may have to pay a little more for flexible dentures or implant dentures.
It all depends on materials, your mouth, and what kind of preparation work (like extractions) needs to happen first.
Which one is right for you?
That depends on a few things:
- Have you lost all of your teeth, or just some?
- Are your remaining teeth strong enough to support a partial denture?
- Do you want something removable? Flexible? Permanent?
- What’s your budget like?
- What kind of lifestyle do you have?
So, it all depends on materials, your mouth, and what kind of prep work (like extractions) need to happen first. Whether it’s complete dentures, removable partial dentures, or implant dentures, we’ll guide you through it all.
Will people know I’m wearing dentures?
Not if we do our job right, and we always do it well.
Modern partial dentures and complete dentures look incredibly natural. The color and shape are chosen to match your gums and face.
You don’t have to look like you are wearing anything at all.
So…What do dentures actually feel like?
We get this a lot. People don’t just want to know what complete dentures or partial dentures are, they want to know what it feels like to wear them every day.
The truth is that there’s an adjustment period. Whether you go with full dentures or removable partial dentures, it takes time for your mouth to get used to something in between your teeth.
Most patients tell us:
“It wasn’t nearly as bad as I thought. I just had to get used to it, now, I forgot I’m even wearing them.”
Flexible dentures tend to be a little softer, they move a bit with our mouth, and they are often more comfortable from day one.
But they fit perfectly and are painless for both full and partial dentures. If they do, come back. At North Barrie Dental, we’ll make adjustments as many times as it takes until you are pleased and comfortable.
Maintenance Tip For Your Dentures
You want your removable dentures to last longer? Here are a few simple tips we give all our patients:
- Take them out at night. Give your gums a break
- Use an appropriate denture cleaner to soak your full or partial dentures.
- Please do not use hot water as it can damage the shape.
- Clean them gently with a soft brush, even flexible dentures need regular care
- Keep them in a case when you’re not using them
Full dentures need occasional tweaking. Your mouth changes over time, so your dentures need to change with it.
Final Thoughts
If you’re still reading this, chances are you’re seriously considering getting dentures—and that’s a big step toward improving your smile and oral health. Now is the perfect time to take the next small but important step: reach out, ask questions, and start the conversation today.
Need dental services in Barrie, Toronto? Book a free consultation with North Barrie Dental today and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile. Our experienced team is here to provide expert care and personalized solutions for all your dental needs.
FAQ’s Because You Are Probably Still Wondering…
Question: Can I eat normally with dentures?
Yes, after a short adjustment period. Most people start with soft foods, then move up to their regular favorite foods and snacks
Question: Will they fall out when I talk or laugh?
No if they are made and fitted correctly. Removable Dentures are made to feel safe and stay in place.
Question: Are flexible dentures better than regular dentures?
They can be more comfortable for some people, especially those with sensitive gums. But it depends on your mouth, we’ll help you decide.
Question: How long do dentures last?
With good care, complete dentures and partial dentures can last 5 to 10 years. You’ll visit us now and then for check-ups and adjustments.