Custom dentures provided at Gilliam Dentistry in Jacksonville, NC

Dentures in Jacksonville, NC — Restore Your Smile at Gilliam Dentistry

Missing teeth don’t have to mean losing your quality of life. At Gilliam Dentistry, we provide custom-fitted dentures in Jacksonville, NC to help patients regain their confidence, restore proper function, and enjoy a natural-looking smile again. Whether you’re missing a few teeth or all of them, we have a denture solution tailored to your needs.

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Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissue. They are one of the most time-tested and widely used tooth replacement options available, and modern dentures look and feel more natural than ever before. At Gilliam Dentistry, we take a personalized approach to every denture case — carefully evaluating your oral health, listening to your goals, and crafting a solution that restores both function and aesthetics.

Types of Dentures We Offer at Gilliam Dentistry

We offer several types of dentures to accommodate the unique needs of each patient in Jacksonville, NC:

  • Complete Dentures: Complete dentures replace an entire arch of missing teeth — either the upper jaw, the lower jaw, or both. They rest on the gums and are custom-fabricated to fit your mouth comfortably and look natural. Complete dentures are a great option for patients who have lost all of their teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury.
  • Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are used when one or more natural teeth still remain. They fill in the gaps left by missing teeth and are attached to your existing teeth using clasps or precision attachments. Partial dentures not only restore your smile but also help prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of position.
  • Conventional Dentures: Conventional dentures are fabricated after your teeth have been removed and your gum tissue has had time to heal — typically 8 to 12 weeks after extraction. This waiting period allows for a more precise and comfortable fit.
  • Immediate Dentures: Immediate dentures are made in advance and placed the same day your teeth are removed, so you’re never without teeth during your healing period. Some adjustments may be needed as your gums heal and change shape over the following weeks.

Who May Need Dentures?

Patients may need dentures for a variety of reasons, including tooth loss from decay, advanced gum disease, injury, or the natural aging process. Tooth loss affects more than just your appearance — it can make it difficult to eat, speak clearly, and maintain proper nutrition. Dentures help restore normal oral function so patients can enjoy daily life more comfortably and confidently.

If you’ve been told you need a tooth extraction or are already missing multiple teeth, dentures may be the right solution for you. Our team at Gilliam Dentistry will conduct a thorough dental exam and discuss all available options — including whether restorative dentistry alternatives such as crowns or bridges might also be appropriate for your case.

What to Expect During the Denture Process

Getting dentures is a multi-step process, and our team at Gilliam Dentistry will guide you through every stage with clear communication and compassionate care. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:

  • Consultation & Evaluation: We start with a comprehensive exam to assess your oral health, discuss your tooth replacement goals, and determine which type of denture is best suited for you.
  • Impressions & Measurements: Precise impressions and measurements of your mouth are taken to ensure your dentures are fabricated to fit accurately and comfortably.
  • Try-In Appointment: Before final fabrication, you’ll have the opportunity to preview the fit, appearance, and bite of your dentures and request any adjustments.
  • Delivery & Fitting: Once your custom dentures are ready, we’ll place them and make any necessary refinements to ensure optimal comfort and function.
  • Follow-Up Care: We schedule follow-up visits to monitor your adjustment and address any soreness or fit concerns as your mouth adapts to your new dentures.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is still essential even with dentures. We recommend regular dental checkups and professional cleanings to keep your gums healthy and ensure your dentures continue to fit properly over time. To learn more or get started, call Gilliam Dentistry at (910) 577-5077 or request an appointment online today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures in Jacksonville, NC

What types of dentures does Gilliam Dentistry offer?

Gilliam Dentistry offers complete dentures, partial dentures, conventional dentures, and immediate dentures. Complete dentures replace a full arch of missing teeth, while partial dentures fill in gaps when some natural teeth remain. Conventional dentures are placed after the gums have healed, while immediate dentures are inserted the same day as extraction. Our team will help determine which type is right for you during your consultation in Jacksonville, NC.

How long does it take to get dentures?

The timeline for getting dentures varies depending on the type. Immediate dentures can be placed the same day teeth are removed. Conventional dentures typically require a healing period of 8 to 12 weeks after extractions before they are placed. The full process — from initial consultation to final fitting — may take several weeks to a few months. At Gilliam Dentistry, we’ll walk you through the expected timeline during your evaluation.

Will dentures affect how I eat and speak?

There is typically an adjustment period when you first receive dentures. Eating soft foods and speaking slowly at first can help you adapt more comfortably. Most patients find that within a few weeks, eating and speaking feel much more natural. Our team at Gilliam Dentistry will provide tips and follow-up care to help make your transition as smooth as possible.

How do I care for my dentures?

Dentures should be removed and rinsed after eating, brushed daily with a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleanser, and soaked overnight in a denture solution to maintain their shape and cleanliness. It’s also important to gently brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth to promote gum health. Regular dental checkups at Gilliam Dentistry are still essential even with dentures to monitor your oral health.

How long do dentures last?

With proper care, dentures typically last 5 to 10 years before needing to be replaced or relined. Over time, the shape of your jawbone and gums can change, causing dentures to fit less securely. If you notice your dentures becoming loose, uncomfortable, or visibly worn, contact Gilliam Dentistry at (910) 577-5077 to schedule a fitting evaluation. Regular checkups help us catch fit issues early.

Can I sleep with my dentures in?

Most dental professionals recommend removing dentures at night to give your gum tissue time to rest and recover. Sleeping without dentures also allows you to soak them overnight, which helps maintain their shape and hygiene. Our team at Gilliam Dentistry will provide specific care instructions based on your individual denture type and oral health needs.

Are dentures my only option for replacing missing teeth?

Dentures are an excellent and affordable tooth replacement option, but they are not the only solution available. Depending on your oral health and the number of teeth missing, restorative dentistry options such as dental bridges or crowns may also be appropriate. Our team at Gilliam Dentistry will discuss all available options during your comprehensive dental exam so you can make the most informed decision for your smile.