A sore spot, a loose fit, or avoiding foods you used to enjoy can affect a lot of your day. Those are exactly the things Dr. Maiurano wants to hear about. They help her understand how a denture is working for you beyond how it looks in the mirror.
Complete and partial dentures
A complete denture replaces all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw. A removable partial denture fills gaps while working around the natural teeth you still have. Dr. Maiurano examines those teeth and your gums before discussing which approach could work for you.
If this would be your first denture, bring your questions about eating, speaking, and getting used to it. We'll explain what the process involves and where adjustments may be needed as you settle into wearing it.
Wondering how a partial compares with a fixed bridge? Read about everyday care with a bridge or partial, then bring us your questions about which could suit you.
Adjustments and changing fit
A denture that used to fit well can begin to rub or move as your mouth changes. Please tell us when that happens. You shouldn't have to guess whether a sore spot is something an adjustment could help.
Sometimes one area needs attention. A broader change in fit may call for a reline, repair, replacement, or a different approach. Seeing the denture in your mouth helps Dr. Maiurano explain which is more likely to help.
If your denture or partial breaks
We know a broken denture can put your day on hold. Call the office and tell us what happened. Keep all the pieces, and don't wear it if it is sharp, unstable, or hurting your mouth. Please don't try to glue it back together yourself.
Some repairs can be made in the office; others need a dental laboratory. Once we've seen the damage, we can give you a clearer idea of what's involved and how long it may take.
Eating and speaking with a new denture
Getting used to a new denture takes practice. Tell us what matters in your day, from enjoying a meal with friends to feeling comfortable speaking at work. We'll explain how to put the denture in and take it out, and talk through your questions about eating and speaking. Follow-up visits give us a chance to check the fit and hear how you're getting along.
A daily routine you can manage
Brush the denture each day with a soft brush and a nonabrasive denture cleanser. Clean your gums and tongue gently with a soft brush, and keep brushing and flossing any remaining teeth. Ask us which products suit your appliance and how to store it when you're not wearing it. We'll explain when to take it out and what to do overnight.
If a family member helps with your daily care, you're welcome to include them in the conversation. Tell us if holding a brush or taking the denture in and out is difficult so we can go over it together.
Regular dental checkups still matter with dentures. We check the tissues in your mouth as well as the appliance and its fit. You can also find general denture-care guidance from the American Dental Association.
Bring the denture with you
Bring the appliance even if you haven't been able to wear it. It tells us about the fit and bite, and it gives you a way to show us where the trouble is. For damage that needs prompt attention, see our broken denture guidance and call the office.