Dentures in New Westminster, BC

Dentures replace missing teeth and help you eat, speak and smile comfortably again. At Sapperton Dental in New Westminster, we provide complete and partial dentures and will help you compare them with other tooth replacement options so you can choose what suits your health, comfort and budget.

Types of Dentures

Complete dentures

Complete (full) dentures replace all the teeth in the upper jaw, lower jaw or both. They rest on the gums and are held in place by suction and the shape of the mouth.

Partial dentures

Partial dentures replace one or several missing teeth when some natural teeth remain. They usually clip onto nearby teeth and help stop those teeth from shifting.

Implant-supported dentures

Dentures can also be attached to dental implants for extra stability. This can make chewing easier and reduce movement, especially in the lower jaw.

Who Are Dentures For?

Dentures may be a good option if you:

• Are missing several or all of your teeth
• Have teeth that cannot be saved because of decay or gum disease
• Want a removable, lower-cost option compared with implants
• Have difficulty chewing because of missing teeth

What to Expect

1. First visit: we examine your mouth, review your health history and explain your options, including the expected function, appearance and cost.
2. Preparation: any teeth that need to be removed are taken out, and the gums are allowed to heal. Immediate dentures can sometimes be placed on the same day as extractions.
3. Impressions and fittings: we take impressions and measurements, and you try in the dentures so we can check fit, bite and appearance.
4. Delivery and adjustments: the final dentures are fitted. Sore spots are common at first, and follow-up visits let us adjust them for comfort.

Getting Used to New Dentures

• Start with soft foods cut into small pieces, and chew on both sides at the same time.
• Read aloud to get used to speaking with your dentures.
• Expect some extra saliva and minor soreness for the first few weeks.
• Come back for adjustments rather than putting up with sore spots.

Caring for Your Dentures

• Remove and rinse your dentures after eating.
• Brush them daily with a soft brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner. Regular toothpaste can scratch them.
• Keep dentures moist when not wearing them so they do not dry out or warp.
• Brush your gums, tongue and any remaining natural teeth every day.
• Take your dentures out at night, unless your dentist advises otherwise.

Your mouth naturally changes over time, so dentures may need to be relined, repaired or replaced. Regular check-ups help us spot problems early.

Dentures vs. Implants

• Conventional dentures are removable, cost less and do not need surgery. They rest on the gums, so they can move when you eat or speak.
• Implant-supported dentures clip onto implants placed in the jaw. They are much more stable and help preserve the jawbone, but they cost more and need healthy bone.
• Single implants or bridges may be better when only one or two teeth are missing.

See dental implants to learn more, or ask us to compare the options for your situation.

Relines, Repairs and Adjustments

Your gums and jawbone slowly change shape after teeth are lost, so dentures that fit well at first can become loose. Signs that your dentures need attention include:

• Sore spots or ulcers on the gums
• Dentures that slip, click or need more adhesive than before
• Cracks, chips or missing teeth on the denture
• Difficulty chewing or changes in your speech

A reline reshapes the fitting surface to match your gums again. Avoid repairing dentures at home with glue, as this can damage them and affect the fit.

Cost and Insurance

The cost of dentures depends on whether you need complete or partial dentures, the materials used, whether extractions are needed first, and whether implants are involved. Many dental plans cover part of the cost of dentures and relines, often with limits on how often they can be replaced. Ask us for a written estimate to check with your insurer.

Your Dentists

Denture treatment is planned by our dentists, Dr. Sandeep Sachdeva and Dr. Sarika Sachdeva, who will check your mouth, explain your options and follow up with adjustments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do dentures last?

Dentures commonly last several years, but the fit changes as the gums and jawbone change. Most people need a reline or a new set eventually.

Will dentures look natural?

Modern dentures are made with tooth and gum colours chosen to suit your face, and we check the appearance with you before they are finished.

Can I eat normally with dentures?

Most foods become manageable with practice. Very hard or sticky foods can still be difficult. Implant-supported dentures generally give the most chewing stability.

Dentures, bridge or implant: which is best?

It depends on how many teeth are missing, the health of your remaining teeth and bone, and your budget. See crowns and bridges and dental implants, or ask us to compare them for you.

Should I sleep with my dentures in?

Most people should take their dentures out at night to give the gums a rest and reduce the risk of irritation and infection, unless your dentist advises otherwise.

What happens if my denture breaks?

Keep all the pieces and call us. Many broken dentures can be repaired. Avoid home repair kits, which can change the fit.

Do I need to use denture adhesive?

Well-fitting dentures should not need much adhesive. A small amount can add confidence, but if you need more and more over time, your dentures probably need a reline or adjustment.

How often should my dentures be checked?

We recommend having your dentures and mouth checked at least once a year, even if you have no natural teeth. We look at the fit, the condition of the denture and the health of your gums, tongue and soft tissues.

Book a Denture Consultation

Contact Sapperton Dental at 301 East Columbia Street #105, New Westminster, near Sapperton SkyTrain Station. Call 604-544-0894 or request an appointment.