Dentures

At Esthetique Dentistry of Ashburn, we believe every patient deserves a confident, healthy, beautiful smile  including patients who wear dentures. Our Ashburn, VA practice provides personalized denture services tailored to your needs, your comfort, and your long-term oral health. Every patient is unique, and we create one-of-a-kind dentures that feel good and look natural.

Types of Dentures We Offer

Full Dentures

Full dentures are recommended when all of the natural teeth in an arch have been removed. At Esthetique Dentistry of Ashburn, we offer two types of full dentures:

Conventional full dentures are placed after the gum tissue has fully healed following tooth removal, which typically takes several months. Because they are made once healing is complete, conventional dentures tend to fit more precisely from the start.

Immediate full dentures are placed on the same day your teeth are removed, so you are never without teeth during the healing period. Because your gums and bone will continue to change shape as they heal, immediate dentures may require more frequent adjustments during the first few months of wear.

Our team will help you determine which type of full denture is the right fit for your situation.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They are attached to a metal frame that connects to your existing teeth, filling in the gaps left by missing teeth. Partial dentures are a removable alternative to dental bridges, preserving your remaining natural teeth while restoring your smile's function and appearance.

If you are missing several teeth but still have healthy natural teeth remaining, partial dentures may be an excellent option worth discussing at your next visit to our Ashburn office.

Implant-Supported Dentures

For Ashburn patients seeking a more secure, long-term solution, implant-supported dentures offer a significant upgrade over traditional removable dentures. Rather than resting on the gum line, implant-supported dentures snap or lock onto titanium dental implant posts that are surgically placed in your jawbone creating a stable fit that eliminates slipping, clicking, and the discomfort that can come with loose-fitting conventional dentures.

Because the implants integrate with your bone through a process called osseointegration, they also help preserve your jawbone. This is an important distinction: traditional dentures do nothing to prevent the bone loss that naturally occurs after teeth are removed, and that bone loss is what causes the gradual changes in facial appearance many long-term denture wearers experience. Implant-supported dentures address the problem at the root level.

There are two primary types of implant-supported dentures:

Bar-Retained Dentures - A thin metal bar follows the curve of your jaw, attached to two to five implants placed in the jawbone. Clips on the denture fit onto the bar, holding it securely in place throughout the day. This option distributes chewing forces evenly and works well for patients who have experienced some degree of bone loss.

Ball-Retained (Stud-Attachment) Dentures - Each implant holds a small metal ball attachment that fits into a corresponding socket on the underside of the denture. This creates a secure snap-in connection that is easy to remove for cleaning while remaining stable during eating and speaking.

Benefits of implant-supported dentures include:

• A stable, secure fit with no slipping or shifting
• Preservation of jawbone density and facial structure
• A natural look and feel
• The ability to eat a wider variety of foods with confidence
• No adhesives required
• Long-lasting results with proper care

Candidacy for implant-supported dentures depends on your overall health, bone density, and gum condition. Some patients may require a bone grafting procedure before implants can be placed. Our Ashburn dental team will evaluate your suitability and walk you through every step of the process during your consultation.

Are Dentures Right for Me?

Dentures are not for everyone, and the right type of denture depends on your specific situation how many teeth are missing, the condition of your remaining teeth and gums, your bone density, your lifestyle, and your budget. If you're considering dentures and want to understand your options, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our Ashburn, VA office. Our team will take the time to answer your questions and recommend the best course of treatment for your long-term dental health.

Caring for Your Dentures

Dentures, just like natural teeth, require daily maintenance to stay clean and keep bacteria from growing inside your mouth. Follow these guidelines to keep your dentures clean and your smile healthy:

• When handling your dentures, stand over a clean, folded towel or a sink full of water. If you accidentally drop them, they are far less likely to break.
• Brush your dentures every day with a soft-bristled brush, gently cleaning all surfaces. Be careful not to break or bend the plastic or metal frame. Rinse your dentures after each meal between brushings.
• Use a gentle cleanser. Many toothpastes, household cleaners, and mouthwashes are too abrasive for dentures. A mild hand or dish soap is recommended. Look for the ADA seal of approval, or ask your Ashburn dentist which products are safest for your specific denture type.
• When not wearing your dentures, keep them moist. Store them in a denture cleaning solution or water to prevent drying out, warping, or cracking. Certain denture styles require specific soaking solutions ask your dentist which is right for yours.
• Even with a full set of dentures, keep your gums and tongue clean. Use a soft-bristled brush daily to remove bacteria and maintain healthy oral tissues.
• For implant-supported dentures, clean carefully around the implant posts and underneath the denture base. Your dentist will show you the best technique and may recommend specialized tools such as interdental brushes or a water flosser.

If your dentures break or no longer fit comfortably, contact our Ashburn dental office and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Ill-fitting dentures can cause irritation, sore spots, and long-term changes to your bite. Regular checkups every six months are just as important for denture wearers as they are for all of our patients.

Frequently Asked Questions - Dentures in Ashburn, VA

What is the difference between full and partial dentures?

‍Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth and are used when all natural teeth have been removed. Partial dentures fill in specific gaps while your remaining natural teeth stay in place. Your dentist will recommend the appropriate type based on how many teeth are missing and the condition of your remaining teeth and gums.

What is the difference between conventional and immediate full dentures?

‍Conventional full dentures are made after your gums have fully healed following tooth removal a process that can take several months and tend to fit more precisely as a result. Immediate full dentures are placed on the same day your teeth are removed so you are never without teeth, but they typically require more adjustments as your mouth heals and changes shape.

What are implant-supported dentures and how are they different from regular dentures?

‍Traditional dentures rest on the gum line and can shift or slip during use. Implant-supported dentures are anchored to titanium implant posts placed in the jawbone, which holds them firmly in place. They also help preserve bone density in a way that traditional dentures cannot, making them a more comprehensive long-term solution for many patients.

How do I know if I am a candidate for implant-supported dentures?

‍Candidacy depends on your overall health, the density of your jawbone, and the condition of your gums. Some patients require bone grafting before implants can be placed. The best way to find out is to schedule a consultation at our Ashburn office, where we will take detailed imaging and evaluate your suitability.

How long do dentures last?

‍Traditional removable dentures generally last five to ten years before relining or replacement is needed, as your jaw and gum shape naturally change over time. Implant-supported dentures tend to last longer the implant posts themselves can last a lifetime with proper care, while the denture portion may need replacement after ten to fifteen years depending on wear.

Will dentures affect how I speak or eat?

‍There is typically an adjustment period of a few weeks during which speaking and eating may feel different. Most patients adapt fully with time and practice. Implant-supported dentures generally allow for greater biting force and more dietary freedom than traditional dentures, since they do not shift during use.

Do I need to remove my dentures at night?

‍For traditional removable dentures, yes it is generally recommended to remove them at night to give your gum tissues a rest and to keep the dentures soaking in solution. For implant-supported dentures, whether overnight wear is appropriate depends on the specific design of your restoration. Your Ashburn dentist will provide personalized guidance.

What should I do if my dentures no longer fit properly?

‍Ill-fitting dentures are common as your jawbone and gum tissues change shape over time. Rather than relying on more adhesive to compensate, schedule an appointment at our Ashburn office so we can assess whether relining, rebasing, or replacing your dentures is the right approach. Wearing dentures that don't fit properly can cause sore spots and long-term changes to your bite.

How do I clean implant-supported dentures?

‍Implant-supported dentures require the same daily brushing and rinsing as traditional dentures, with additional attention to cleaning around the implant posts and underneath the denture base. Your dentist will demonstrate the best technique and may recommend specialized tools such as interdental brushes or a water flosser to keep the implant sites healthy.

Schedule a Denture Consultation in Ashburn, VA

Whether you're considering full dentures, partial dentures, or implant-supported dentures, the team at Esthetique Dentistry of Ashburn is here to help you find the right solution. We take the time to understand your needs, answer your questions, and create a treatment plan that works for your health, your lifestyle, and your budget. Contact our Ashburn, VA office today to schedule your consultation.

We are here to help: (703) 729-6222