Dentures Tucson, AZ

What are dentures?

Dentures are custom-made dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth, restore your bite, and enhance your smile. Often called false teeth, dentures can be either removable (complete dentures or partial dentures) or fixed (supported by crowns, bridges, or implants). At OpenCare Dental, we focus on removable dentures that look natural, fit comfortably, and help restore your confidence.

Types of dentures we offer

Complete dentures (Full dentures Tucson)

Full dentures are ideal when all teeth are missing. They consist of a gum-colored acrylic base with artificial teeth and are held in place using natural suction or denture adhesive.

• Conventional dentures: These dentures are created after tooth extractions, once the gums have fully healed, which usually takes 6–8 weeks. This healing time allows for a more stable and comfortable fit since the gum tissues have settled. While it means being without teeth for a short period, conventional dentures often provide the most natural look and secure placement. They remain a popular and affordable option for patients seeking full dentures in Tucson, Arizona.
• Immediate dentures: Immediate dentures are fabricated in advance and placed in your mouth the same day your teeth are extracted. This means you won’t have to go without teeth during the healing period, which is a big advantage for many patients. However, since gums and bone naturally shrink during healing, these dentures often require more adjustments to maintain comfort. They work best as a temporary solution until conventional dentures can be made.
• Implant-supported dentures: For patients looking for the most stability, implant-supported dentures are anchored with titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone. These implants allow the denture to “snap” securely into place, offering superior retention compared to suction alone. While they require a higher investment, they make eating, speaking, and smiling much more natural. Many patients find implant-supported dentures especially beneficial for the lower jaw, where traditional dentures may shift more easily.

Partial dentures Tucson

Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They anchor to existing teeth with clasps or rests and can be made from acrylic, metal, or flexible materials.

• Metal framework partials: These partial dentures are built with a strong metal base that provides rigidity and long-lasting durability. They are designed to fit securely using clasps around your natural teeth, ensuring the replacement teeth stay in place. Metal partials are often recommended for patients seeking a reliable, long-term solution. They remain one of the most common and effective ways to replace multiple missing teeth while preserving healthy natural ones.
• Acrylic partials: Acrylic partial dentures are often used as a temporary solution after extractions or while waiting for a permanent denture. They are more affordable than metal options and can be quickly made to restore your smile and function. While they may not be as strong or durable for long-term use, they are a practical and accessible choice. Many patients choose acrylic partials as an immediate option before transitioning to a more permanent restoration.
• Flexible partials: Flexible partial dentures are crafted from advanced materials that allow them to bend and adapt comfortably to your mouth. They are lighter, thinner, and more discreet compared to metal or acrylic alternatives, making them a popular choice for patients prioritizing comfort and aesthetics. Flexible partials blend naturally with your gums and teeth, giving them a highly realistic appearance. This modern option provides a great balance between durability, esthetics, and affordability.

How dentures are made

Getting dentures at OpenCare Dental is a step-by-step process that ensures comfort and a natural look.

1. Impressions (molds) are taken of your mouth.
2. Models are created and tested for bite and fit.
3. Wax prototypes are shaped into final dentures.
4. Multiple visits ensure accuracy and comfort.

Most dentures require 4–5 visits over several weeks. However, with immediate dentures, you can leave our dental clinic with new teeth the same day.

Alternatives to dentures

If dentures aren’t the best fit for your lifestyle, our top-rated dentist in Tucson, AZ may recommend alternative tooth replacement solutions:

Dental bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic designed to replace one or more missing teeth by attaching artificial teeth (pontics) to crowns placed on healthy adjacent teeth. At OpenCare Dental, we specialize in dental bridges in Tucson, offering durable and natural-looking solutions that restore both your bite and your smile. Patients can choose from a variety of materials, including porcelain dental bridges which closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth. Bridges not only improve aesthetics but also help maintain proper alignment and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting. With proper care, they can last 10–20 years, making them a long-term investment in your oral health. If you’re looking for an affordable dental bridge in Tucson, our team will help you select the right option to fit your needs and budget.

Dental implants

Dental implants are considered the most advanced and durable solution for replacing missing teeth. An implant is a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone, which naturally fuses with the bone over time. Once healed, the implant can support a crown, bridge, or even stabilize dentures. Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, making them an excellent choice for patients who want a permanent solution. While implants are a higher investment compared to dentures or bridges, they provide unmatched stability, bone preservation, and confidence when eating or speaking.

Living with dentures – what to expect

Adjusting to new dentures is a gradual process, but with a little patience, most patients adapt quickly. Dentures can significantly improve facial appearance, restoring fullness and a natural-looking smile. At first, it may feel different to chew, so we recommend starting with soft foods and slowly introducing firmer options as you grow comfortable. Speaking with dentures may also take some practice, but with time, speech becomes natural again. Some initial soreness or increased saliva production is common, but these side effects lessen as your mouth adjusts. If discomfort persists, our walk-in dentist in Tucson is available to make precise adjustments, ensuring your dentures fit securely and comfortably.

Denture care & maintenance

To keep dentures long-lasting and comfortable:

• Remove at night to rest your gums.
• Clean daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap (not hot water).
• Store in water or denture cleaner when not in use.
• Visit our dental clinic in Tucson, Arizona for regular checkups, relining, or denture repair.

Denture adhesives may be used for added stability, but they shouldn’t replace professional adjustments.

Cost of dentures & insurance coverage

The cost of dentures in Tucson varies depending on the type, materials, and insurance benefits. On average, patients can expect to invest a few thousand dollars for a complete set.

At OpenCare Dental, we are a Delta dentist in Tucson and work with most insurance plans to make dentures affordable. Our team will help you verify coverage and explore flexible payment options.

How long do dentures last?

With proper care, dentures can last 5–7 years before needing replacement. Over time, natural changes in bone and gums may require relining or adjustments. Minor fractures can often be repaired in 1–2 days at our office or dental lab.

For urgent needs, we also provide same day denture repair in Tucson.