Dentures

Restore the Function of Your Smile with Dentures in Chula Vista, CA

Missing teeth can impact more than just your appearance—they affect your ability to eat, speak, and maintain oral health. Fortunately, modern dentures offer a reliable solution to restore function and confidence. Whether you need a partial or complete set, dentures provide a practical and affordable way to regain a natural-looking smile.

At Smile Expert, our Chula Vista, CA dentist, Dr. Nick Addario helps patients find the right denture solution for their needs. Whether you live in Chula Vista or nearby areas like Bonita, National City, or Imperial Beach, high-quality dentures are within your reach. To learn more about dentures, contact our Chula Vista dental office by calling (619) 626-2004.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are custom-made dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore function, appearance, and confidence. They are an excellent solution for individuals who have lost multiple or all of their teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury.

Types of Dentures: Finding the Right Fit for You

Dentures come in several types, each designed to meet different needs. The best option for you depends on how many teeth you need to replace and your overall oral health.

Complete (Full) Dentures

Complete dentures replace an entire arch of missing teeth. They rest on the gums and are custom-made to fit comfortably and securely.

Conventional Dentures: Placed after the gums have fully healed following tooth extraction, which can take several months.
Immediate Dentures: Provided right after tooth extraction, allowing you to have teeth immediately, though they may require adjustments as your gums heal.

Partial Dentures

If you still have some natural teeth, a partial denture can fill in the gaps. These dentures use a metal or acrylic framework to attach to your existing teeth, providing stability and improving chewing function.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, implant-supported dentures are secured to dental implants placed in the jawbone. These dentures offer enhanced stability, preventing slipping and improving comfort.

Snap-In Dentures

Snap-in dentures, also called overdentures, use implants or attachments to “snap” securely into place. They provide a stronger hold than conventional dentures, making them a great option for those looking for more support.

Immediate Dentures

Immediate dentures are made before natural teeth are removed and are designed to be placed immediately after tooth extraction. They can be worn temporarily while the gums and bone heal and a permanent denture is made.

Benefits of Choosing Dentures

Dentures do more than restore your smile—they can improve your quality of life in several ways.

Improved Chewing and Speaking: Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat certain foods or speak clearly. Dentures restore these functions, allowing you to enjoy a wider variety of foods and speak without discomfort.
Enhanced Confidence: A complete smile can boost self-esteem and make social interactions more comfortable. Modern dentures are designed to look natural, helping you feel more confident in your appearance.
Facial Support and Structure: When teeth are missing, the jawbone and facial muscles can begin to shrink, leading to a sunken appearance. Dentures help maintain facial structure, preventing premature aging.
Affordable Tooth Replacement Option: Compared to dental implants, dentures are a more cost-effective solution for replacing missing teeth, making them accessible for a wide range of patients.

Who’s a Candidate for Dentures?

Dentures are a great solution for individuals who have lost multiple or all of their teeth and need a reliable replacement option. You may be a good candidate for dentures if you:

Have Missing Teeth – Whether you’ve lost teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury, dentures can restore function and aesthetics.
Experience Difficulty Eating or Speaking – Missing teeth can make it harder to chew food properly and pronounce words clearly. Dentures help improve these daily functions.
Have Significant Tooth Wear or Damage – If many of your teeth are severely worn down, damaged, or weakened, dentures might be the best option.
Have Sufficient Gum and Bone Support – While traditional dentures rest on the gums, implant-supported dentures require enough bone structure for secure placement.

Dr. Addario will assess your oral health and determine if dentures are right for you. He’ll discuss available options, ensuring you receive a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

How to Properly Care for Your Dentures

To extend the life of your dentures and maintain good oral hygiene, follow these care tips.

Clean Your Dentures Daily

Just like natural teeth, dentures need regular cleaning. Use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner to remove food particles and plaque. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be too harsh.

Soak Dentures Overnight

Most dentures need to stay moist to maintain their shape. Soaking them in water or a denture-cleaning solution overnight helps prevent them from drying out or warping.

Handle with Care

Dentures can break if dropped. Always clean them over a soft towel or a sink filled with water to prevent accidental damage.

Keep Your Gums Healthy

Even with full dentures, it’s essential to clean your gums daily with a soft toothbrush or damp cloth to remove bacteria and stimulate circulation.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Routine dental visits to Dr. Nick Addario in Chula Vista, CA ensure your dentures fit properly and that your oral health remains in top condition.

The Dentures Process at Smile Expert

The process of getting dentures typically involves several steps to ensure a comfortable fit and natural appearance. Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Consultation and Examination

Dr. Addario at Smile Expert in Chula Vista, CA, will examine your mouth, assess your oral health, and discuss your tooth replacement options. X-rays or digital scans may be taken to evaluate your bone structure and gum health.

Tooth Extraction (If Necessary)

If you have remaining damaged or unhealthy teeth, they may need to be extracted before getting dentures. Depending on your case, you may receive immediate dentures, which are placed right after extractions, or conventional dentures, which require a healing period before fitting.

Impressions and Measurements

Precise impressions of your gums and any remaining teeth are taken to ensure your dentures fit securely and comfortably. Measurements of your bite are also recorded to create a well-aligned denture.

Denture Fabrication

Your custom dentures are crafted in a dental lab using high-quality materials. The process may take a few weeks, during which temporary dentures may be provided if needed.

Fitting and Adjustments

Once your dentures are ready, Dr. Addario will ensure they fit properly, making necessary adjustments for comfort and function. You may need a few follow-up visits to refine the fit and address any discomfort.

Adapting to Your New Dentures

It may take time to get used to eating and speaking with dentures. Starting with soft foods, practicing speech exercises, and following Dr. Addario’s care instructions can help ease the adjustment period.

Long-Term Denture Care and Maintenance

Regular checkups at Smile Expert will ensure your dentures remain in good condition. Over time, they may need adjustments or relining as your gums and jawbone change. Proper daily cleaning and soaking are essential to keep them functional and fresh.

Whether you’re in Chula Vista, National City, Bonita, or Imperial Beach, Dr. Addario and his team are here to guide you through every step of the dentures process.

Cost of Dentures in Chula Vista, CA

The cost of dentures varies based on the type, materials, and any additional treatments needed.

Complete Dentures – $1,500 to $3,500 per arch
Partial Dentures – $800 to $3,000
Snap-In Dentures – $4,000 to $15,000 (secured with implants for better stability)
Immediate Dentures – $1,500 to $3,500 (placed right after tooth extraction)
Implant-Supported Dentures – $5,000 to $25,000 (secured with multiple implants for long-term support)

Additional costs may include tooth extractions ($75-$300 per tooth), adjustments ($200-$500 per visit), and repairs ($100-$500). Many insurance plans help cover denture costs, and Smile Expert offers financing options to make them more affordable. Whether you’re in Chula Vista, National City, Bonita, or Imperial Beach, contact Dr. Addario by calling (619) 626-2004 to help you find a denture solution that fits your budget.

Choose Dr. Addario for a Smile Worth Sharing

Choosing the right dentist for your dentures is just as important as the dentures themselves. At Smile Expert, Dr. Addario and our skill team is known for compassionate care, attention to detail, and commitment to patient satisfaction.

One of Dr. Addario’s happy patients, Nicolle Charriez, shared her experience:

“Best dentist in Chula Vista! Dr. Nick Addario and his team are amazing! They truly care about each patient. I am so happy I started working with this outstanding team. Great atmosphere, beautiful practice in an amazing location. I would highly recommend Dr. Nick. Everyone is so kind that it makes it easy to go to the dentist. I can’t stop smiling!”

A comfortable and welcoming environment makes all the difference when undergoing the dentures process. Whether you’re visiting from Chula Vista, National City, Bonita, or Imperial Beach, Dr. Addario ensures that every patient feels confident and cared for. If you’re ready to restore your smile, Smile Expert is here to help!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I eat with dentures?

Yes, you can eat with dentures, but you may need to make some adjustments to your diet. Initially, it’s best to stick to soft foods and cut them into small pieces to make them easier to chew. Over time, you can gradually introduce more challenging foods, but you should avoid very hard or sticky foods that could damage or dislodge your dentures.

Can I sleep with my dentures in?

While it’s possible to sleep with your dentures in, it’s generally not recommended. Removing your dentures at night allows your gums and mouth tissues to rest and recover from the pressure of the appliance during the day. It also allows you to clean and care for your dentures properly.

How do I adjust to wearing dentures?

It may take some time to get used to wearing dentures, especially if you’re new to them. You may experience some discomfort or soreness in the first few weeks you wear dentures, but this should improve as your mouth adjusts to the new appliance. Make sure to follow your dentist’s instructions and wear your dentures as directed to help your mouth adapt to the change.

Enhance Your Smile with Confidence at Smile Expert

Dentures offer a life-changing solution for those struggling with tooth loss. They provide functional, aesthetic, and financial benefits, making them an excellent choice for many patients. While there may be an adjustment period, proper care and regular checkups with a trusted dentist can help you enjoy a comfortable and confident smile.

If you’re considering dentures in Chula Vista, San Diego or nearby areas, schedule a consultation with Dr. Nick Addario at Smile Expert today by calling (619) 626-2004. A healthy, complete smile is within your reach!