Step 1: Discuss your denture needs (Consultation)

The partial denture process begins with a conversation about your needs. During your consultation, we will discuss your current situation, what you hope to accomplish with your new partial, and which options may be appropriate for you.

This is also your opportunity to ask questions. We believe you should understand what to expect before moving forward, including the steps involved, the type of partial that may work for you, and what you can expect as you adjust to wearing it.

Our providers are happy to explain the process from start to finish so you can make informed decisions about your denture care.

Step 2: Determine the right type of partial (Consultation)

There are different types of partial dentures. The appropriate option for you will depend on your individual needs.

Smile Again Dentures provides both acrylic and metal-framework partials. These options have different characteristics, which we can discuss in more detail during your appointments.

Rather than assuming one type is right for everyone, we will consider your individual circumstances and discuss the available options with you. Your input is an important part of the process.

Step 3: Take impressions (Impression)

Creating a partial that fits properly requires an accurate impression of your mouth. That is why this appointment is dedicated to capturing every detail.

A well-made model provides the foundation for a properly fitting partial. Partial dentures need to work with your existing teeth and oral structures. Taking the time to complete this part of the process carefully helps us work toward the best possible fit.

We will guide you through what to expect during your appointment and make the process as straightforward as possible.

Step 4: Measure your bite and choose your teeth (Bite)

We need to know how far your mouth opens and where your upper front teeth meet your lower front teeth. Your molars also need to meet properly so you can chew. We will also match the shade of your natural teeth to find the best match for your partial.

We will guide you toward a partial that looks and feels as much like the natural teeth it is replacing as possible. If you would like your partial to look as it did before your natural teeth were removed, you can bring photos. We can use them as a reference.

Step 5: Create your partial dentures (Try-In)

Once we have collected the necessary information, we can make your partial dentures according to your individual specifications. We set the teeth in wax so you can try in your new partial.

This step is important for checking the shade and placement of the replacement teeth. If the teeth on the partial are not in the right positions, they may put too much pressure on your remaining natural teeth, which can cause pain or discomfort.

Our team focuses on both fit and appearance. We understand that partial dentures are more than a replacement for missing teeth. Your partial becomes part of your everyday life, so we want you to feel comfortable wearing it and confident in how it looks. You will have the opportunity to approve its appearance before we complete it.

Step 6: Pick up your partial dentures (Insert)

When your partial dentures are ready, you will have an opportunity to wear them and see how they feel. We may need to make minor adjustments when you first receive them. We will also teach you the proper way to insert and remove your partials so you can clean and care for them each day.

We will explain what to expect. It is normal for a new partial to feel different at first. Your mouth needs time to become accustomed to having a removable appliance in place. Speaking and eating may initially feel unfamiliar, but these activities generally become easier as you spend more time wearing your partial.

During this stage, it is important to tell us about any concerns you have with the fit or comfort of your new appliance. Your feedback can help us determine whether an adjustment is needed.

Step 7: Make adjustments when necessary

Adjustments can be an important part of the partial denture process. Even a carefully made appliance may need minor changes once you begin wearing it regularly.

Smile Again Dentures offers professional denture adjustments to help improve the fit and comfort of full and partial dentures. If something does not feel right, let us know instead of trying to tolerate ongoing discomfort. You may need to wait a day for an appointment, but we will see you as quickly as we can.

Our goal is to help your partial fit comfortably so you can become accustomed to wearing it.

Step 8: Give yourself time to adjust

Getting used to partial dentures does not necessarily happen overnight. Because a partial replaces missing natural teeth, it can take time for wearing, speaking, and eating with the appliance to feel familiar.

Patience is important during this adjustment period. Follow the care and wearing instructions provided to you, and give yourself time to become comfortable with your new partial.

If you have questions or concerns along the way, reach out to your denture provider. Understanding what you are experiencing can make the adjustment process easier.

Caring for your partial dentures

Once you have your new partial, proper denture care becomes part of your routine. Handle removable appliances carefully and maintain them according to the care instructions provided for your specific partial.

It is also important to pay attention to changes in how your partial dentures feel. Over time, an appliance can experience normal wear, or changes may occur that affect its fit. If your partial becomes uncomfortable, damaged, or difficult to wear, you may need denture care. Our bodies are constantly changing, and sometimes your partial needs attention to keep up with those changes.

Smile Again Dentures provides denture repairs, relines, and adjustments, in addition to new partial dentures. These services can help address problems that may develop with an existing appliance.

How long does the partial denture process take?

The timeline for getting partial dentures can vary depending on your individual needs and the type of appliance being made. Appointments are spaced according to the type of partial, but they are generally scheduled once a week until insertion, followed by additional appointments for adjustments as needed. The process takes about four to six weeks from start to finish.

Rather than rushing through appointments, we believe in allowing enough time to focus on fit, function, and your overall experience. We also encourage patients to ask questions throughout the process.

We’ll discuss your specific timeline during your initial appointments so you know what to expect.

Start the partial denture process with Smile Again Dentures

Getting partial dentures can be a significant step, but understanding what to expect can make the experience more comfortable and predictable. From your initial consultation through the fitting and adjustment process, Smile Again Dentures is here to answer your questions and provide personalized denture care.

We serve patients in the Lewiston, Auburn, and Brunswick, ME, areas. Contact us today to learn more about the partial denture process, discuss your needs, and ask about current appointment availability.