Dentures

Dentures in Ivy, VA

Modern dentures bear little resemblance to the bulky, obvious appliances of the past. At Willis & Associates Family Dentistry Ivy – Charlottesville, Dr. Michelle Kim provides custom-crafted full and partial dentures that restore your smile with comfort, stability, and a remarkably natural appearance.

Types of Dentures

Full Dentures

Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, upper or lower. They rest on the gum ridge and are held in place by natural suction or a mild adhesive. Today’s full dentures are made from high-quality acrylic and porcelain that closely replicate the look of natural teeth and gums.

Partial Dentures

When you are missing some but not all of your teeth, a partial denture fills the gaps. It clips onto your remaining natural teeth with discreet clasps, restoring your smile and preventing the remaining teeth from shifting out of position.

Implant-Supported Dentures

For patients who want maximum stability, dentures can be anchored to dental implants. Implant-supported dentures snap securely onto implant attachments in the jawbone, eliminating slippage and the need for adhesives. They also help preserve jawbone density over time.

The Denture Process

Creating dentures that fit well and look natural requires precision and artistry. Dr. Kim takes detailed impressions and measurements of your mouth, jaw, and bite. These are sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians craft your custom dentures.

Before the final dentures are completed, you will try on a wax model so Dr. Kim can verify the fit, bite alignment, and appearance. Adjustments are made at this stage to ensure everything is just right. The final dentures are then fabricated and delivered, with any necessary fine-tuning at follow-up visits.

Adjusting to New Dentures

New dentures take a short adjustment period. Eating soft foods, practicing speaking, and wearing them consistently helps your mouth adapt. Dr. Kim schedules follow-up appointments to check the fit and make any needed adjustments during the first few weeks.

Caring for Your Dentures

• Remove and rinse dentures after meals
• Brush them daily with a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleanser
• Soak dentures overnight to keep them moist and maintain their shape
• Continue to visit our Ivy Road office for regular checkups, even with full dentures
• Have them relined or replaced as needed over time to maintain proper fit

Restoring Confidence

Well-made dentures do more than replace teeth. They restore your ability to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and smile with confidence. Dr. Kim’s careful approach to denture design ensures that your new smile looks natural and feels secure throughout your day.