How long do dentures last?

Dentures can last for many years with proper care, but their lifespan depends on the material, fit, bite forces, hygiene, and changes in the gums and jawbone. Periodic adjustments, relines, and eventual replacement are part of normal denture maintenance.

Do modern dentures look natural?

Modern dentures can look natural when they are carefully designed around tooth shape, size, shade, facial structure, and bite. The goal is a denture that supports the smile and blends with the patient's face.

Can I eat normally with dentures?

Many patients can return to a broader range of foods after adjusting to dentures, but there is usually a learning period. Sticky, very hard, or chewy foods can be more difficult with traditional dentures.

What is the difference between full and partial dentures?

Full dentures replace all teeth in one or both arches and rest on the gums. Partial dentures fill gaps when some natural teeth remain and attach to neighboring teeth for support.

What are snap-in dentures and how do they work?

Snap-in dentures attach to dental implants placed in the jawbone. The denture connects to the implants for improved stability during daily use and is removed for cleaning.

How do I care for my dentures?

Dentures should be cleaned daily with a soft brush and denture-safe cleanser. Many dentures should be soaked overnight, but care instructions vary based on the specific material and design.

Does insurance cover dentures?

Dental insurance may cover part of the cost of dentures when they are medically necessary, but coverage varies by plan. Implant-retained options may have different coverage rules than traditional dentures.

How long does the denture process take?

The denture process depends on the type of denture, whether extractions are needed, how the gums heal, and whether implants are involved. Traditional dentures may be completed faster than implant-supported options.

What happens to my jawbone with traditional dentures?

When teeth are missing, the jawbone can gradually lose volume because there are no tooth roots providing stimulation. Traditional dentures rest on the gums and do not stimulate the bone in the same way natural roots do.

Are implant-supported dentures an option if I have bone loss?

Some patients with bone loss can still qualify for implant-supported dentures, while others may need additional evaluation or preparatory treatment first. A 3D scan can help determine which options are appropriate.

Dentures in Harlan, IA

Missing teeth can make eating, speaking, and smiling feel harder than they should. Our team helps you compare denture options so you can choose a solution that fits your health, lifestyle, and budget.

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(712) 755-5342

Older woman holding a full upper acrylic denture up in front of her mouth

Dentures at Markham Family Dental Associates

Dentures have come a long way. Today’s options can be custom-fitted, designed to look natural, and adjusted to support everyday function. At Markham Family Dental Associates, Dr. Burkhalter reviews multiple denture options so you can choose a solution that fits your mouth, goals, and budget.

Whether you're missing a few teeth, an entire arch, or you're wearing dentures that no longer feel right, this page walks you through your options, what to expect, and how to get started.

Explore Topics on this Page

What Are Dentures?

Types of Dentures We Offer

Benefits of Dentures

Who Is a Good Candidate?

The Denture Process

What Makes Us Unique?

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and the gum tissue around them. They sit over your gums and are custom-made to fit your mouth, support your facial appearance, and help restore chewing and speaking function.

The right type depends on how many teeth you have lost, the condition of your remaining teeth, and the health of your jawbone. Dr. Burkhalter reviews these factors at your consultation and walks you through which option may make the most sense for your case.

A full set of removable upper and lower acrylic dentures on a dark background

Types of Dentures We Offer

Not every patient needs the same solution. Here are the options available at Markham Family Dental Associates.

Full Dentures

Full dentures replace all teeth in one or both arches. They are custom-fitted to rest on the gums and help restore the appearance and function of a complete smile when no natural teeth remain.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures fill in gaps when some natural teeth are still healthy. They attach to neighboring teeth to help reduce shifting and improve chewing function.

Immediate Dentures

Immediate dentures are placed the same day as extractions so you have replacement teeth during the healing period. Adjustments are usually needed as your gums settle over the following weeks and months.

Snap-In Dentures

Snap-in dentures are anchored to dental implants for improved stability compared with traditional removable dentures. They are removable for cleaning but designed to feel more secure during daily use.

Implant-Supported Fixed Arch

A fixed implant-supported restoration replaces a full arch of missing teeth and is removed only by the dentist. It may be an option for patients who want more stability than a removable denture can provide.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dentures?

Generally, ideal candidates:

Are missing most or all teeth on one or both arches

Still have some healthy natural teeth and need a partial solution

Have bone loss that makes implants difficult without additional procedures

Want to restore function and appearance without surgery

Are looking for a more accessible starting cost compared to implants

Close-up macro shot of toothless male smile mouth of senior mature man.

The Denture Process

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Free Consultation and Exam

Dr. Burkhalter reviews your teeth, gums, and bone structure using our in-house CBCT 3D imaging. He discusses your goals and explains which type of denture fits your situation. This visit is completely free. You'll leave with a clear picture of your options and what the path forward looks like.

Treatment Planning and Impressions

Precise impressions of your mouth are taken to custom-fit your dentures to your jaw shape, bite, and facial structure. If extractions are needed, they're planned and coordinated as part of this step so nothing comes as a surprise.

Extractions If Needed

Any remaining teeth that need to come out are removed carefully. Local anesthesia and sedation are both available so you stay comfortable. If you're receiving immediate dentures, your new teeth are placed the same day so you leave without a gap.

Fitting and Adjustments

Your custom dentures are fitted across one or more appointments. Small adjustments during this phase are completely normal and are part of getting the fit right for your specific mouth.

Ongoing Care and Follow-Up

Your gums change shape over time, especially in the months after extractions. We schedule regular follow-up visits to check the fit, reline when needed, and make sure your dentures continue working the way they should.

Words From Our Patients

Why Patients Choose Markham Family Dental for Dentures

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A team you can count on

Meet The Team

Markham team member positioning a patient at the CBCT 3D imaging scanner

In-house 3D imaging and CAD/CAM fabrication for precision from day one

Our Technology

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Denture planning, fitting, adjustments, and follow-up care handled here in Harlan

Our Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about dentures.

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Prepare for Your Visit

Patient Forms

Download and complete your forms before your appointment to save time when you arrive. Plan to come in 10 to 15 minutes early so we can get you settled.

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Insurance and Financing

We work with many PPO dental insurance plans and can file claims on your behalf when insurance applies. Financing options may be available for patients who need flexible payment options. Ask our front desk what works best for your situation.

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