Losing teeth can make eating uncomfortable, cause you to mumble certain words, and even change the shape of your face over time. At Cavanaugh Dental, we offer custom dentures and partials that look natural, fit securely, and help you get back to enjoying life with a full, confident smile. Dr. John McRee, Dr. Sheridan Kelley, and our experienced team are here to guide you through every step. From your first consultation to the day you walk out with your new smile, you’ll be happy you chose us.
We are conveniently located at 900 E Cavanaugh Rd in Lansing and proudly serve patients from Holt, Dimondale, Mason, Dewitt, and all across the greater Lansing area. Visit our restorative dentistry for all your denture needs.
Types of Dentures: Finding the Right Solution for You
Not all dentures are the same. The right choice depends on how many teeth you are missing, your budget, and your lifestyle goals.
Complete Dentures (Full Set)
Complete dentures are used when all teeth are missing in your upper or lower jaw. We offer two types:
- Conventional Dentures: These are made after your teeth have been removed and your gum tissue has fully healed. The process takes about 8 to 12 weeks, but the result is a precise, custom fit.
- Immediate (Same-Day) Dentures: These are made in advance and placed right after your teeth are removed. You leave with a complete smile on the same day. However, as your gums heal and reshape, you may need adjustments or a reline in the future.
Which is right for you? If you don’t want to go without teeth during healing, immediate dentures are a great option. If you prefer the most accurate fit possible, conventional dentures may be the better choice. Dr. McRee or Dr. Kelley will help you decide during your consultation.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used when you still have some healthy natural teeth remaining. They fill in the gaps, prevent your remaining teeth from shifting, and restore your ability to chew properly.
Partial dentures are custom-made to fit around your existing teeth using a metal or gum-colored framework. They are removable for easy cleaning.
Implant-Supported Dentures: A More Secure Option
While traditional dentures rest on your gums, implant-supported dentures attach to small titanium posts placed in your jawbone. This creates a secure, stable fit that changes your experience of wearing dentures.
Why consider implant-supported dentures?
- No slipping or clicking: Implant dentures snap into place. You can laugh, talk, and eat without worrying about your teeth moving.
- Preserves jawbone: Implants stimulate bone growth, helping prevent facial sagging often seen with long-term traditional denture wear.
- Restores chewing power: Implant dentures provide significantly more biting force, allowing you to enjoy a wider variety of foods, crunchy fruits, and vegetables.
We offer both removable implant dentures (you can take them out for cleaning) and fixed implant dentures (only removable by a dentist). During your consultation, we will help you decide which option best fits your lifestyle and budget.
The Denture Process: What to Expect at Cavanaugh Dental
Getting dentures is a journey, and we are with you every step of the way.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a visit to Cavanaugh Dental. Dr. John McRee or Dr. Sheridan Kelley will examine your mouth, discuss your dental history, and talk about your goals. If you are interested in implant-supported dentures, we will also discuss the surgical process, healing timeline, and cost. This is a great time to ask any questions you might have.
Step 2: Personalized Treatment Plan
Our team will create a treatment plan tailored to you. This plan will outline the steps needed to prepare your mouth for dentures, including any necessary extractions or treatments (such as gum disease therapy).
Step 3: Impressions and Measurements
We take detailed digital or physical impressions of your gums and any remaining teeth. These impressions are used to create a model of your mouth, which helps us design dentures that fit perfectly. We also take measurements of your jaw and bite to ensure proper alignment.
Step 4: Model Try-In
Before your final dentures are made, you will have a chance to try a wax model version. This step is crucial because it allows you to see how the dentures look and feel. We can make adjustments to ensure comfort, fit, and appearance.
Step 5: Final Denture Fitting
Once the model is perfected, your final dentures are crafted. You will return to our office for a fitting, where the dentures are placed in your mouth. We will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments to ensure they are comfortable and functional.
Step 6: Adjustments and Follow-Up
It’s normal to need a few adjustments after you start wearing your dentures. Your mouth needs time to adjust, and your gums may change shape slightly during the first few months. We will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Step 7: Learning to Use Your Dentures
At first, wearing dentures might feel a bit strange. You may need to practice speaking and eating with them. Our team will provide tips and guidance to help you adjust. Over time, using your dentures will become second nature.
Step 8: Care and Maintenance
Proper care will keep your dentures in good condition. We will show you how to clean them and advise on the best products to use. Regular cleaning helps prevent stains and bacterial buildup, keeping your mouth healthy.
Dentures Cost, Insurance, and Financing
We believe quality dentures should be within reach for every Lansing family. The cost of dentures varies based on the type and materials used.
- Conventional full dentures (per arch): 1,000−3,000
- Implant-supported overdentures (per arch): 7,000−13,000 (includes implants and attachment system)
Note: These are estimated ranges. Your final cost depends on your specific case, the number of implants needed (if any), and any preparatory procedures such as extractions or bone grafting. We will provide a clear, written estimate before any treatment begins.
We make dentures affordable through:
- Insurance Welcome: We accept most major dental insurance plans. Many plans cover a portion of the cost of dentures. Our team will verify your benefits before you arrive, so there are no billing surprises.
- Flexible Financing: Ask about our third-party financing options (such as CareCredit), which allow you to break the cost of your new smile into manageable monthly payments. Many patients qualify for low or no-interest plans.
- Quality Guarantee: We stand by the craftsmanship of our lab and the fit of your dentures. If adjustments are needed, we are here to make them. Ask us about warranties covering repairs and relines for your new dentures.
Benefits of Dentures
Dentures offer benefits that go far beyond just filling the gaps in your smile.
- Improved appearance: Modern dentures are designed to look like natural teeth, restoring your smile and boosting your confidence.
- Better nutrition: With a full set of teeth, you can eat a wider variety of foods, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Clearer speech: Dentures help you pronounce words that can be difficult without a full set of teeth.
- Facial support: Dentures support your lips and cheeks, helping you maintain a more youthful facial structure.
- Comfort: Modern dentures are crafted to fit snugly, reducing discomfort and irritation associated with missing teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dentures last?
With proper care, conventional dentures typically last 5 to 10 years before needing replacement due to normal wear or changes in your gum and bone structure. Implant-supported dentures last longer because the implants preserve bone health. The prosthetic teeth may need replacement after 10-15 years.
Will my dentures look natural?
Yes. We work with skilled dental labs to create dentures that match the color, shape, and size of natural teeth. Your dentures will be custom-made to complement your facial features.
Do dentures hurt?
It is normal to experience some mild soreness or pressure points during the first few weeks of wearing new dentures. We will schedule adjustment appointments to address any discomfort. Once your mouth adjusts, dentures should feel comfortable.
Can I sleep in my dentures?
We recommend removing your dentures at night to give your gums a rest and to prevent bacterial growth. Soak your dentures in water or a cleaning solution overnight to keep them from drying out.
How do I clean my dentures?
Remove and rinse your dentures after meals. Brush them daily with a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleanser (not regular toothpaste, which can scratch the surface). Soak them overnight in water or a denture-soaking solution. Also, brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth before reinserting your dentures in the morning.
What is the difference between a denture and a partial?
A complete denture replaces all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw. A partial denture replaces one or more missing teeth while leaving your remaining natural teeth in place.
Schedule Your Dentures Consultation Today
Don’t let missing teeth hold you back from enjoying life. Whether you are considering traditional dentures or exploring implant-supported options, Dr. John McRee, Dr. Sheridan Kelley, and the Cavanaugh Dental team are here to help.
Call us today at (517) 760-6845 or request an appointment online. We proudly serve patients from Lansing, Holt, Dimondale, Mason, Dewitt, and all across the greater Lansing area. Let us help you get your smile back.