At E.M. Makhoul, DDS, we look to educate our patients on procedures like fitting dentures. It's important to understand what getting dentures means for the patient. Patients trust Dr Makhoul in Mission Viejo for his knowledge, experience and comfortable care.

A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue.  They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile.

There are two types of dentures - complete and partial dentures.  Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain.  A Partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.

A Complete denture may be either “conventional” or “immediate.”  A conventional type is made after the teeth have been missing for a while, usually taking a couple of weeks.  Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process.  Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made.

Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.

Reasons for dentures:

• Complete Denture - Loss of all teeth in an arch.
• Partial Denture - Loss of several teeth in an arch.
• Enhancing smile and facial tissues.
• Improving chewing, speech, and digestion.

What does getting dentures involve?

The process of getting dentures requires a few appointments, usually over a couple of weeks.  Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture.  “Try-in” appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit.  At the final appointment, Dr Makhoul will precisely adjust and place the completed denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.

It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside quickly as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.

You will be given care instructions for your new dentures.  Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.

Call today for your new patient courtesy (949) 364-3724

Our South Orange County patients come from all over Saddleback Valley: Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Ladera Ranch, Laguna Hills, Dana Point, Aliso Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, South Laguna, Capistrano Beach, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Trabuco canyon, Foothill Ranch, Portolla Hills, Coto De Caza, Nellie Gail, and even Newport Beach.