Where Families in Green Lake Come to Smile
Dentures in Green Lake, Seattle
Your breakfast tastes different when your options are limited, and you can’t chew properly. Conversations become exercises in speaking clearly. And that photo your friend wants to take? You suddenly remember you need to check your phone. Missing teeth affect more than just your mouth; they change how you move through your day. Fortunately, dentures can give you back the simple pleasures you’ve been missing.
At Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Cherryl Ellison designs custom dentures that fit comfortably and look completely natural. Whether you need a full or partial denture set, we’ll create a solution that lets you eat, speak, and smile without a second thought. With Cherry Financing offering 0% interest for 12 months and our monthly membership plan, restoring your smile doesn’t have to strain your budget.
Understanding Your Denture Options
Dentures come in two main types. Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, either upper or lower, when all natural teeth are gone. They rest directly on the gums and rely on suction and sometimes adhesive to stay in place. Partial dentures fill in gaps when you still have some healthy teeth remaining. They attach to neighboring teeth with clasps and blend right in with your smile.
Both options restore your ability to chew properly and speak clearly. The right choice depends on how many teeth you’ve lost and the condition of your remaining teeth. During your consultation, Dr. Ellison examines your mouth and discusses which type makes the most sense for you.
The Process of Getting Dentures
Creating dentures takes several appointments, but the process is straightforward. First, Dr. Ellison takes detailed impressions of your mouth. These digital molds capture the exact shape of your gums and jaw, which serves as the blueprint for your custom dentures.
Next comes the fitting stage. You’ll try on a temporary set to check the fit, bite alignment, and appearance. This step allows for adjustments before the final dentures are made. Once everything looks and feels right, your permanent dentures are crafted in a dental lab.
The final appointment involves making sure your new dentures fit comfortably. Dr. Ellison checks your bite and makes any necessary tweaks. She also provides instructions on caring for your dentures and what to expect during the adjustment period.
Once your dentures are ready, we’ll make sure they fit comfortably, look natural, and allow you to speak and eat confidently. We’ll also provide care tips and check-ins to ensure long-term comfort and function.
Adjusting to Life With Dentures
Approximately 40 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, making dentures an essential replacement option for those needing complete coverage. New dentures feel strange at first. Your mouth needs time to adapt to the sensation, and you might notice extra saliva production or slight soreness. These are normal reactions that typically fade within a few weeks.
Eating with dentures requires a bit of practice. Start with soft foods cut into bite-sized pieces. Chew slowly and use both sides of your mouth to keep the dentures stable. As you get more comfortable, you can slowly add more difficult foods back into your diet.
Speaking might also feel different initially. You may notice a lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain words. Reading aloud at home helps train your mouth to work with the dentures. Most people adjust their speech within a few days to a couple of weeks.
Caring for Your Dentures
Proper maintenance keeps your dentures in good shape and prevents problems. Remove and rinse them after every meal to clear away food particles. Brush them daily with a non-abrasive cleaner made specifically for dentures. Regular toothpaste is too harsh and can cause scratches that trap bacteria.
Soak your dentures overnight in a cleaning solution. This keeps them healthy and maintains their shape. Never use hot water, which can warp the material. In the morning, rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
Your gums need attention, too. Brush them gently with a soft toothbrush each morning and evening to stimulate circulation and remove plaque. If you have remaining natural teeth, continue your regular oral care routine of brushing and flossing.
When Dentures Need Repairs or Replacement
Even well-made dentures don’t last forever. The materials wear down over time, and your jaw naturally changes shape as you age. Most dentures need replacement every five to seven years.
Watch for signs that your dentures need attention. Cracks, chips, or loose teeth require immediate repair. If your dentures start slipping or feel uncomfortable, they may need adjustment or relining. Don’t try to fix them yourself with household glue, which can damage the material and harm your gums.
Schedule regular checkups so Dr. Ellison can monitor the fit and condition of your dentures. She can spot potential issues early and make minor adjustments before they become bigger problems. These visits also allow her to examine your gums and check for any changes in your oral health.
Alternatives to Dentures Worth Considering
Dentures work well for many people, but they're not the only option. Dental bridges can replace a row of missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent healthy teeth. They stay fixed in place and don't require removal for cleaning. The best choice relies on your oral health, budget, and personal preferences. Cosmetic dentistry solutions continue to evolve, giving patients more options than ever before.
Quality Denture Care at Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Cherryl Ellison earned both her Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Dental Surgery degrees from Indiana University, where she also competed on the cycling team. After practicing in Vermont for several years, she relocated to the Pacific Northwest and opened Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry. We accept most major PPO insurance plans, including Delta Dental, Cigna, Premera Blue Cross, and UnitedHealthcare.
Ready to restore your smile? Contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ellison. We’ll evaluate your needs, discuss your options, and create a treatment plan tailored to you. Same-day appointments are often available for patients who need prompt care.
Schedule Your Denture Consultation Today
Ready to restore your smile in a way that feels natural and personal? Book your dentures consultation at Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry and take the first step toward feeling like yourself again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures
How long does it take to get dentures?
It depends on the type. Traditional dentures typically take a few weeks from start to finish, while implant-supported options may take longer due to healing.