Dentures in Portland, ME
Full and partial dentures designed and handcrafted by specialist prosthodontists for a comfortable, natural-looking fit.
Regain Comfort and Confidence After Tooth Loss
Missing multiple teeth can make eating, speaking, and smiling feel like a daily challenge. Dentures have been a trusted solution for generations, and modern materials and techniques have made them more comfortable, more realistic, and more functional than ever. The key to a successful denture experience, however, is the skill behind the design and fabrication — and that is where prosthodontic expertise makes a measurable difference.
At Prosthodontics Associates, P.A., our prosthodontists bring advanced training in removable prosthetics to every denture case. From selecting the right tooth shapes and shades to sculpting gum contours that complement your facial features, each detail is considered with the goal of creating a prosthetic that looks natural and fits securely. Our prosthodontists oversee every step of the process, ensuring hands-on coordination from initial impressions through final delivery.
Full Dentures vs. Partial Dentures
The type of denture recommended depends on how many teeth remain and their condition. Full dentures replace an entire arch and rest directly on the gum tissue, relying on suction and the natural contour of the ridge for retention. Partial dentures fill in the gaps left by several missing teeth, using clasps that attach to remaining natural teeth for stability.
In some cases, remaining teeth may be compromised and extraction followed by a full denture — or an implant-supported option — may offer a better long-term outcome. Your prosthodontist will evaluate the health of your existing teeth, the condition of the underlying bone, and your functional goals before recommending a specific path. Our Portland practice also offers implant-supported dentures for patients seeking greater stability than a conventional removable prosthetic can provide.
- Full dentures for patients missing all teeth in an arch
- Partial dentures when healthy natural teeth remain
- Immediate dentures available for placement on the day of extraction
- Implant-supported options for patients wanting added stability
Your Path to a Custom Denture
Each denture is built through a series of carefully coordinated steps designed to produce a precise, personalized fit.
Oral Evaluation
Your prosthodontist examines your remaining teeth, gums, and jawbone. Digital X-rays help assess bone structure. The evaluation determines whether a full or partial denture is appropriate and whether any extractions or preparatory procedures are needed.
Impressions and Bite Records
Detailed impressions of your dental arches and bite relationship are taken. These records provide the information needed to build a denture that aligns properly with your jaw and opposing teeth.
Tooth Selection and Wax Try-In
Teeth are selected for shape, size, and shade. A wax model of the denture is tried in your mouth so you and your prosthodontist can preview the arrangement, check the bite, and request changes before the final version is processed.
Processing and Delivery
The approved wax model is processed into the final denture using durable acrylic materials. At delivery, the fit is fine-tuned and you receive instructions for daily care, cleaning, and follow-up scheduling.
Crafted by Specialists, Built for You
Our approach to dentures combines prosthodontic training with specialist precision at every step.
Prosthodontist-Led Design
Our doctors complete additional residency training in removable prosthetics, giving them the skills to handle straightforward and complex denture cases with equal attention to detail.
Specialist Precision
Every denture is crafted under specialist oversight, with your prosthodontist coordinating shade, tooth arrangement, and gum contouring for a precise, personalized result.
Personalized Aesthetics
Tooth shape, size, and shade are selected to complement your facial structure and skin tone — not chosen from a limited set of stock options.
Ongoing Support
Dentures require maintenance over time. Our team provides relines, adjustments, and replacements as your mouth changes, keeping your prosthetic comfortable and functional.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between full and partial dentures?
- Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth — upper, lower, or both — and rest on the gum tissue. Partial dentures replace one or several missing teeth and are held in place by clasps that attach to remaining natural teeth. Your prosthodontist will recommend the type that matches the number and location of your missing teeth, along with the condition of your remaining teeth and gums.
- How long does it take to adjust to new dentures?
- Most patients need several weeks to adjust to the feel of new dentures. Speaking and eating may feel different at first, and minor sore spots are common as your gums adapt. Follow-up appointments allow your prosthodontist to make targeted adjustments. Many patients find that comfort improves steadily during the first month as the oral tissues settle and the muscles adapt to the new prosthetic.
- Will my dentures need to be relined or replaced over time?
- Yes. The jawbone and gum tissue beneath a denture change shape gradually, especially in the years following tooth loss. Relining — adding material to the denture base to improve the fit — is often needed every few years. Eventually, a full replacement may be necessary. Regular checkups allow your prosthodontist to monitor the fit and recommend relining or replacement before problems develop.
- What foods should I avoid with dentures?
- While well-fitting dentures restore much of your chewing ability, very hard foods like raw carrots and nuts, sticky foods like caramel, and tough meats may pose challenges — especially with full dentures. Cutting food into smaller pieces and chewing on both sides of the mouth can help. Over time, most patients find they can expand their diet as they become more comfortable with the prosthetic.
Start Your Denture Consultation
Our prosthodontists can help you find the right denture solution for your needs. Call our office or request an appointment online to get started.