Dentures in Hillsboro, OR

Comfortable, Natural-Looking Dentures at Eastwood Dental Care

Missing teeth can significantly impact your quality of life, affecting your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. At Eastwood Dental Care in Hillsboro, Oregon, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) provides custom dentures designed to restore your smile’s function and appearance. Whether you need to replace a few teeth or a full arch, we offer various denture options to meet your specific needs and budget.

Our approach combines traditional craftsmanship with modern materials and techniques to create dentures that fit comfortably, look natural, and provide reliable function. We understand that every patient’s situation is unique, and we’ll work with you to find the best solution for your lifestyle and goals.

If you’re considering dentures or experiencing problems with existing dentures, call us at (503) 614-0198 to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you explore your options and create a treatment plan that restores your smile and your confidence.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They consist of artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored base, typically made from acrylic resin and sometimes incorporating metal attachments for additional strength and retention.

Modern dentures are more comfortable, natural-looking, and functional than ever before. Advances in materials and fabrication techniques have dramatically improved how dentures fit, feel, and appear. Many people wear dentures successfully and enjoy active, confident lives.

Dentures serve multiple important functions beyond just improving appearance. They restore your ability to chew food properly, which is essential for nutrition and digestion. They support facial muscles, preventing the sunken appearance that can occur with tooth loss. They enable clear speech, as many sounds require interaction between the tongue and teeth. And they provide psychological benefits by restoring your smile and boosting self-confidence.

Types of Dentures: Finding Your Best Option

Several types of dentures are available, each designed for specific situations and needs. Understanding the differences helps you make an informed decision about which option is right for you.

Full Dentures (Complete Dentures)

Full dentures replace all the teeth in the upper or lower arch, or both. They’re used when all natural teeth in an arch are missing or need to be removed due to severe decay, gum disease, or other issues.

A complete upper denture covers the roof of your mouth, called the palate, which helps with retention through suction. The palate coverage can initially affect taste and temperature sensation, but most patients adapt quickly.

A complete lower denture is horseshoe-shaped to allow room for the tongue. Lower dentures are typically more challenging to fit and stabilize because they have less surface area for retention and are displaced by tongue movement. However, properly fitted lower dentures function well with an adjustment period.

Full dentures rest on the gum tissue and underlying bone. As you chew and speak, the dentures are held in place by suction, muscle control, and sometimes denture adhesive.

Partial Dentures (Removable Partial Dentures)

Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain in the arch. They fill in the gaps left by missing teeth and prevent remaining natural teeth from shifting position.

A typical partial denture consists of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base, connected by a metal or resin framework. Metal clasps or precision attachments connect to your natural teeth to hold the partial denture in place.

Partial dentures are removable and should be taken out for cleaning and at night. They restore function and appearance while being less expensive than fixed alternatives like bridges or implants.

Cast metal partial dentures feature a metal framework, usually made from chrome-cobalt alloy, which is stronger and less bulky than all-acrylic partials. They’re more durable and provide better long-term fit.

Flexible partial dentures use a thermoplastic material instead of acrylic and metal. They’re more comfortable and aesthetic because they don’t require visible metal clasps. However, they may not be suitable for all situations and can be more difficult to adjust.

Immediate Dentures

Immediate dentures are placed immediately after tooth extraction, allowing you to never be without teeth. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) takes impressions and measurements before your teeth are removed, and the denture is fabricated in advance.

The main advantage of immediate dentures is that you don’t have to go without teeth during the healing period. This is particularly important for appearance and psychological well-being. Immediate dentures also help control bleeding and protect extraction sites during initial healing.

However, immediate dentures require more adjustments than conventional dentures. As your gums and bone heal and shrink after extractions, the fit changes significantly. You’ll need several follow-up appointments for adjustments, and a reline or remake is typically necessary within six to twelve months.

Immediate dentures are considered temporary solutions that provide function and aesthetics while your mouth heals in preparation for conventional dentures.

Conventional Dentures

Conventional dentures are made after all teeth have been removed and the gums and bone have healed, typically eight to twelve weeks after extractions. This healing time allows the tissues to stabilize, resulting in a better-fitting denture.

Because conventional dentures are made after healing is complete, they typically fit better and require fewer adjustments than immediate dentures. The disadvantage is that you’re without teeth during the healing period unless you have immediate dentures or a temporary solution.

Most patients who choose conventional dentures wear immediate dentures during the healing period, then transition to conventional dentures once healing is complete.

Implant-Supported Dentures (Overdentures)

Implant-supported dentures represent a significant advancement in denture technology. These dentures attach to dental implants that are surgically placed in your jawbone, providing superior stability and retention compared to traditional dentures.

For a full arch, typically two to six implants are placed in the jawbone. The denture is designed with special attachments that snap onto or connect to the implants. Some implant-supported dentures are removable for cleaning, while others can be permanently fixed and only removed by your dentist.

The benefits of implant-supported dentures are substantial. They’re much more stable than traditional dentures, eliminating the slipping and movement that many denture wearers experience. They provide significantly better chewing efficiency, allowing you to eat foods that might be difficult with traditional dentures.

Implant-supported dentures preserve jawbone because the implants provide stimulation similar to natural tooth roots. This prevents the bone loss that occurs with traditional dentures. They don’t cover the palate, which improves taste and eliminates the gagging sensation some people experience with traditional upper dentures.

The primary disadvantage is cost. Implant-supported dentures are significantly more expensive than traditional dentures because they require implant surgery. However, many patients find the improved function and comfort worth the investment.

Not everyone is a candidate for dental implants. Adequate bone density is required, and certain medical conditions may preclude implant placement. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will evaluate your specific situation to determine if implant-supported dentures are an option for you.

The Denture Process: What to Expect

Creating custom dentures is a multi-step process that typically takes several weeks and requires multiple appointments. Understanding each step helps you know what to expect.

Initial Consultation and Examination

Your journey to dentures begins with a comprehensive examination. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will evaluate your oral health, examine your gums and any remaining teeth, and take X-rays to assess the underlying bone structure.

If you have remaining teeth that need to be extracted, we’ll discuss the extraction process and timing. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will explain your denture options, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each, and help you choose the best solution for your needs and budget.

We’ll also discuss your goals and concerns, including any specific aesthetic preferences or functional requirements. This is an excellent time to ask questions about the process, timeline, and what to expect.

A treatment plan is developed that outlines the steps involved, the estimated timeline, and the costs. We’ll verify your insurance benefits and discuss payment options.

Tooth Extractions (If Necessary)

If you have remaining teeth that need to be removed, this is typically done in one or more appointments. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) can perform most extractions in our office, though complex cases may be referred to an oral surgeon.

If you’re getting immediate dentures, they’ll be placed right after your extractions. If you’re getting conventional dentures, the extraction sites will be allowed to heal for eight to twelve weeks before the denture fabrication process begins.

Impressions and Measurements

Creating dentures that fit well and look natural requires precise impressions and measurements.

Initial impressions of your gums are taken using special trays and impression material. These impressions capture the contours of your mouth and serve as the basis for creating custom impression trays.

At a subsequent appointment, final impressions are taken using the custom trays. These highly detailed impressions capture every ridge and contour of your gums, ensuring an accurate fit.

Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) also takes measurements and records the relationship between your upper and lower jaws. This information is critical for creating dentures that function properly and maintain the correct facial proportions.

Shade selection is an important part of this process. You’ll work with Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) to select the color of your artificial teeth, considering factors like your natural coloring, age, and personal preferences. The goal is to create dentures that look natural and appropriate for you.

Wax Try-In

Before your final dentures are completed, you’ll have a try-in appointment. At this visit, a wax version of your dentures is placed in your mouth. This allows you to see how the dentures will look and gives Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) the opportunity to check the fit, bite, and appearance.

This is your chance to evaluate the aesthetics and request any changes to the tooth color, shape, or arrangement. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will check your bite to ensure proper alignment and make any necessary adjustments.

Once you and Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) are satisfied with the try-in, the dentures are sent back to the laboratory for final processing in permanent materials.

Final Denture Delivery

At your delivery appointment, you’ll receive your completed dentures. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will place them in your mouth and check the fit, bite, and comfort. Minor adjustments are often needed and can be made in our office.

You’ll receive detailed instructions on how to insert and remove your dentures, how to clean and care for them, what to expect during the adjustment period, and when to schedule follow-up appointments.

It’s completely normal for new dentures to feel strange at first. Your mouth needs time to adapt to having the dentures in place. You may experience increased saliva production, minor soreness, and difficulty speaking or eating initially. These issues typically resolve within a few weeks as you adjust.

Follow-Up Adjustments

Follow-up appointments are a normal and important part of the denture process. As you begin wearing your dentures regularly, you may develop sore spots or areas of discomfort. These are usually easily corrected with minor adjustments.

Don’t try to adjust dentures yourself, as you can damage them. Instead, schedule an appointment so Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) can make proper adjustments. Most patients need two or three adjustment appointments during the first few months.

For immediate dentures, more frequent adjustments are necessary because the gums and bone change shape as they heal. Plan on several appointments during the first six months.

How Does the Process Work?

Now that you understand the benefits, let’s explore how the process works.

Step 1: Consultation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where we discuss your concerns, evaluate your oral health, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Step 2: Treatment Planning
Using advanced diagnostic technology, we create a detailed plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Step 3: Treatment
Our experienced team performs your procedure with precision and care, ensuring your comfort throughout the process.

Step 4: Follow-up
We monitor your progress and provide ongoing support to ensure optimal results and long-term success.

Let’s discuss the financial aspects of your treatment.

Let’s discuss the financial aspects of your treatment.

Cost of Dentures

Understanding the financial investment required for dentures helps you plan for your care. Costs vary depending on the type of denture, materials used, and complexity of your case.

Your choice of dentist significantly impacts your results and experience.

Choosing the right dental practice makes all the difference in your treatment outcome.

Full Denture Costs

A complete set of full dentures, replacing all teeth in both upper and lower arches, typically costs between $1,000 and $3,000 at Eastwood Dental Care. This price includes all appointments, impressions, try-ins, and initial adjustments.

A single full denture, replacing all teeth in one arch, typically costs $500 to $1,500. Economy dentures using standard materials and techniques are at the lower end of the price range. Mid-range dentures with better materials and more customization fall in the middle range. Premium dentures featuring the highest-quality materials, customized aesthetics, and superior fit are at the upper end.

The old saying “you get what you pay for” applies to dentures. Higher-quality dentures typically fit better, look more natural, last longer, and provide better function. However, we work with all budgets and can help you find a solution that meets your needs.

Partial Denture Costs

Partial dentures typically range from $700 to $1,800, depending on the number of teeth being replaced and the materials used.

Acrylic partial dentures are the most economical option, usually costing $700 to $1,200. Cast metal partial dentures, which are more durable and comfortable, typically cost $1,200 to $1,800. Flexible partial dentures generally fall in the mid-to-upper range at $1,000 to $1,500.

Immediate Denture Costs

Immediate dentures typically cost slightly more than conventional dentures because they require additional appointments and planning. Expect to pay $1,200 to $3,500 for a complete set of immediate dentures.

Remember that immediate dentures usually need to be relined or remade after six to twelve months, which is an additional cost. However, many patients find the ability to never be without teeth worth the extra expense.

Implant-Supported Denture Costs

Implant-supported dentures are significantly more expensive because they include implant surgery and specialized denture fabrication.

For a full arch, implant-supported dentures typically cost $15,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the number of implants and the type of attachment system used. While this is a substantial investment, many patients consider it worthwhile for the dramatic improvement in function and comfort.

Insurance Coverage

Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for dentures, typically covering 50% of the cost after deductibles are met. Coverage limits vary by plan, and some plans have waiting periods for major services like dentures.

We work with all major dental insurance providers and will verify your benefits before treatment. Our team will help you maximize your insurance coverage and provide a clear estimate of your out-of-pocket costs.

Financing Options

We understand that dentures represent a significant investment, and we offer several options to make your care affordable:

We provide flexible in-house payment plans that allow you to spread the cost over several months. We work with healthcare financing companies like CareCredit that offer longer-term financing with low or no interest options. We accept all major credit cards for your convenience.

Don’t let cost concerns prevent you from getting the dentures you need. Our team will work with you to find a payment solution that fits your budget. The investment in dentures pays dividends in improved nutrition, comfort, confidence, and quality of life.

Eating and Speaking with New Dentures

Adjusting to dentures takes time and patience. Most people experience some challenges initially, but these typically resolve within a few weeks as you adapt.

The Adjustment Period for Eating

Start with soft foods cut into small pieces during the first few weeks. Good options include scrambled eggs, yogurt, mashed potatoes, cooked vegetables, ground meat, fish, soups, and smoothies.

Chew slowly and use both sides of your mouth simultaneously. This helps keep the dentures stable and distributes pressure evenly. Avoid biting with your front teeth initially, as this can dislodge the dentures. Instead, use your back teeth for chewing.

As you become more comfortable, gradually introduce more challenging foods. Most denture wearers can eventually eat a wide variety of foods comfortably.

Foods to Approach with Caution

Certain foods can be challenging with dentures and should be approached carefully or avoided:

Very hard foods like hard candy, nuts, and raw carrots can damage dentures or cause discomfort. Sticky foods like caramel, taffy, and peanut butter can dislodge dentures. Foods with small seeds like strawberries and sesame seeds can get trapped under dentures and cause irritation.

Very hot foods and beverages should be tested carefully, as dentures can insulate your mouth and make it difficult to judge temperature. Corn on the cob, whole apples, and tough meats are difficult to manage; cut them into small pieces instead.

Adjusting to Speaking with Dentures

New dentures can initially affect your speech, particularly with sounds that require tongue contact with teeth, like “s,” “f,” and “th.”

Practice speaking out loud to help your mouth adapt more quickly. Read aloud to yourself, counting from 60 to 90 is particularly helpful because these numbers contain sounds that are challenging with new dentures.

Your tongue and muscles need to learn the new positions required for clear speech with dentures in place. This adaptation typically occurs within a few weeks of regular wear.

If speech problems persist beyond a month, contact our office. Adjustment to the dentures may be needed.

Tips for Faster Adaptation

Wear your dentures as much as possible, especially during the first few weeks. The more you wear them, the faster you’ll adapt. Remove them only for cleaning and at night as recommended.

Use denture adhesive if recommended by Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O). While well-fitted dentures shouldn’t require adhesive for retention, some patients find it helpful during the adjustment period for added confidence.

Be patient with yourself. Everyone adjusts at a different pace. Don’t get discouraged by initial challenges; they’re normal and temporary.

Denture Care Instructions

Proper care extends the life of your dentures and maintains your oral health. Dentures require daily cleaning and careful handling.

Daily Cleaning Routine

Remove and rinse your dentures after eating to wash away food particles and debris. Brush your dentures at least once daily using a soft-bristled denture brush and denture cleaner. Don’t use regular toothpaste, which is too abrasive and can scratch dentures, creating places for bacteria to accumulate.

Clean all surfaces of the dentures, including the side that contacts your gums. Pay particular attention to areas that contact clasps or natural teeth if you have a partial denture.

Rinse dentures thoroughly after brushing to remove any cleaning product residue. Handle dentures carefully, as they can break if dropped. Clean them over a folded towel or sink filled with water to cushion them if dropped.

Soaking Dentures

Dentures need to stay moist to maintain their shape. When not wearing your dentures, place them in water or a denture-soaking solution. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any denture-cleaning products.

Don’t use hot water, which can warp dentures. Use room temperature or slightly warm water instead.

Soak dentures overnight in a denture-cleaning solution at least once a week for thorough disinfection. Rinse them thoroughly before placing them back in your mouth.

Oral Hygiene for Denture Wearers

Even if you have full dentures, oral hygiene remains important. Brush your gums, tongue, and palate every morning before inserting dentures. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove plaque and stimulate circulation.

If you have partial dentures, meticulous care of your remaining natural teeth is crucial. Brush and floss your natural teeth thoroughly at least twice daily. The teeth that support partial dentures are particularly important and need extra attention.

Rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after removing dentures. This helps keep your mouth clean and fresh.

Regular Dental Checkups

Continue to see Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) regularly even after you have dentures. We recommend checkups at least once a year, and more frequently if you have partial dentures with remaining natural teeth.

During these appointments, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) examines your mouth for any signs of problems, checks the fit of your dentures, professionally cleans your dentures, and determines if adjustments or relines are needed.

Regular checkups allow early detection of issues like oral cancer, gum disease, or bone loss. These conditions can develop even in patients with full dentures.

Handling and Storage

Always handle dentures carefully. They can break if dropped on hard surfaces. When cleaning dentures, work over a folded towel or sink filled with water.

Store dentures in a safe place away from children and pets. Dogs are particularly attracted to dentures and can quickly destroy them.

Never try to adjust or repair dentures yourself. Home repair kits can damage dentures and may use materials that are toxic or irritating. If your dentures break, crack, or become loose, contact our office immediately for professional repair.

Denture Relines and Repairs

Over time, your dentures will need maintenance to continue fitting and functioning properly. Understanding relines and repairs helps you maintain your dentures effectively.

Why Relines Are Necessary

Your gums and bone gradually change shape over time, especially during the first year after tooth extraction. This is a normal process, but it means your dentures will eventually become loose.

A reline involves adding new base material to the tissue side of the denture to improve fit. This compensates for the changes in your gum and bone contours.

Types of Relines

Temporary or soft relines use a pliable material that provides cushioning and is often used when gum tissue is irritated or sore. Soft relines typically last a few months and serve as a temporary solution.

Permanent or hard relines use harder, more durable material that matches the original denture base. Hard relines restore proper fit and can last several years.

Most denture wearers need a reline every two to three years, though this varies by individual. Immediate dentures typically need relining after six to twelve months once healing is complete.

Signs You Need a Reline

Contact our office if you experience loose dentures that move when eating or speaking, difficulty keeping dentures in place even with adhesive, clicking sounds when eating or talking, or changes in your bite or facial appearance.

Food particles getting trapped under dentures, sore spots or irritation that doesn’t resolve with adjustments, and dentures that feel like they’re rocking or tilting are also signs that a reline may be needed.

Denture Repairs

Despite careful handling, dentures can occasionally break, chip, or crack. Common repairs include cracked or broken denture bases, broken or chipped teeth, broken clasps on partial dentures, and separation of teeth from the denture base.

Many repairs can be completed in one to two days. Bring your broken denture to our office as soon as possible. We’ll assess the damage and determine if repair is possible or if replacement is necessary.

Never use superglue or home repair kits on your dentures. These can cause further damage and create rough surfaces that irritate your mouth. Professional repair ensures proper materials and techniques are used.

When Replacement Is Necessary

Even with proper care and periodic relines, dentures eventually need replacement. Most dentures last five to ten years before replacement is necessary.

Signs that replacement rather than repair or reline is needed include extensive wear of the teeth, multiple cracks or repairs, significant color changes or staining that can’t be removed, dentures that no longer fit properly even after relining, and outdated appearance or materials.

As denture technology advances, newer materials and techniques often provide improved fit, comfort, and aesthetics compared to older dentures.

Lifespan of Dentures

Understanding how long dentures last helps you plan for future dental care expenses and needs.

Expected Lifespan

Most dentures last between five and ten years with proper care. However, this is an average, and individual experiences vary significantly.

Factors affecting denture lifespan include the quality of materials and fabrication, how well you care for your dentures, changes in your mouth structure over time, your diet and eating habits, and whether you use denture adhesive properly.

High-quality dentures made from premium materials and fabricated with precision tend to last longer than economy dentures. Proper daily cleaning and care significantly extend denture life.

Why Dentures Need Replacement

Even if your dentures aren’t broken, replacement becomes necessary over time due to several factors:

Normal wear gradually flattens the chewing surfaces of denture teeth, reducing chewing efficiency. The acrylic base can become porous over time, harboring bacteria and causing odor. Staining and discoloration can occur despite regular cleaning.

More importantly, your mouth changes over time. Bone resorption causes the ridges that support dentures to shrink and change shape. Eventually, even relining can’t compensate for these changes, and new dentures are needed.

Ill-fitting dentures that aren’t replaced can cause accelerated bone loss, chronic sore spots, poor nutrition due to difficulty eating, and changes in facial appearance.

Extending Denture Life

While dentures won’t last forever, proper care can maximize their lifespan:

Clean dentures daily using appropriate products and techniques. Handle them carefully to avoid damage from dropping. See Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) regularly for checkups and adjustments. Get relines when needed to maintain proper fit. Don’t sleep in your dentures unless specifically instructed to do so. Use denture adhesive only as recommended.

Store dentures properly when not in use, always in water or denture solution. Avoid exposing dentures to hot water, bleach, or harsh chemicals.

Financing Your Dentures

We understand that the cost of dentures can be a concern, and we’re committed to helping you find an affordable solution.

Insurance Coverage

If you have dental insurance, we’ll work with your provider to maximize your benefits. Most plans cover a significant portion of denture costs. Our team will:

Verify your benefits before treatment, submit all claims on your behalf, help you understand your coverage and out-of-pocket costs, and work to maximize your insurance benefits.

We work with all major dental insurance providers and have extensive experience navigating insurance coverage for dentures.

In-House Payment Plans

We offer flexible payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of dentures over several months. These plans typically require a down payment, with the balance divided into manageable monthly payments.

Our team will work with you to create a payment schedule that fits your budget. We believe financial concerns shouldn’t prevent you from getting the dentures you need.

Healthcare Financing

We partner with healthcare financing companies like CareCredit that offer longer-term financing options. These plans often feature:

Low or no interest if paid within a promotional period, extended payment terms up to 24 months or more, quick and easy approval process, and the ability to use the same financing for future dental and medical expenses.

Many patients find healthcare financing an excellent option for managing the cost of dentures without depleting savings.

Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts

If you have an FSA or HSA through your employer, you can use these pre-tax funds for dentures. This provides significant tax savings on your denture investment.

We can provide the documentation you need to submit for FSA or HSA reimbursement.

Cost Considerations

While it’s natural to want to minimize costs, remember that dentures are an investment in your health, nutrition, and quality of life. Higher-quality dentures typically:

Fit better and more comfortably, look more natural, last longer, require fewer adjustments, and provide better function for eating and speaking.

The lowest-cost option isn’t always the best value. We’ll help you find the right balance between quality and affordability for your situation.

Benefits of This Treatment

Choosing the right treatment can significantly impact your oral health and quality of life. Here are the key benefits you can expect:

• Improved Function: Restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Achieve a natural-looking result that complements your smile
• Long-lasting Results: Enjoy durable solutions designed to stand the test of time
• Better Oral Health: Prevent future complications and maintain overall dental wellness
• Increased Confidence: Feel good about your smile in social and professional situations

Did you know? Regular dental visits can help detect issues early, often preventing more extensive treatment later.

Now that you understand the benefits, let’s explore how the process works.

Now that you understand the benefits, let’s explore how the process works.

Why Choose East Wind Dental Care

Choosing the right dental practice makes all the difference in your treatment outcome.

Experienced Expertise
Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) brings extensive training and years of experience to every procedure. His commitment to continuing education ensures you receive care using the latest techniques and best practices.

Advanced Technology
We invest in cutting-edge dental technology to provide more accurate diagnoses, more comfortable treatments, and better outcomes for our patients.

Patient-Centered Care
From your first phone call to your follow-up visits, our team prioritizes your comfort, convenience, and satisfaction. We take time to listen to your concerns and answer all your questions.

Comprehensive Services
As a full-service dental practice, we can coordinate all aspects of your care under one roof, providing continuity and convenience.

Community Trusted
Proudly serving Hillsboro, Beaverton, Aloha, Tanasbourne, and Orenco Station, we’ve built our reputation on exceptional care and lasting relationships with our patients.

Did you know? Modern dental technology allows us to plan your entire treatment digitally before we even begin.

We understand you may have questions about your treatment. Here are answers to the most common concerns:

Many patients ask similar questions. Here’s what you need to know:

Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures

How long does it take to get used to dentures?

Most people adapt to new dentures within four to eight weeks. The first few days are typically the most challenging, with gradual improvement as your mouth adjusts. Eating and speaking become easier with practice. Some soreness is normal initially, but should resolve as adjustments are made. Patience is key during the adjustment period.

Do I have to take my dentures out at night?

Most dentists recommend removing dentures at night to give your gums and bone a rest from the constant pressure of wearing dentures. This rest period promotes healthy tissue and helps prevent bone loss. It also allows you to thoroughly clean your dentures and soak them to kill bacteria. However, some patients are instructed to wear dentures initially 24 hours a day; follow Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O)’s specific recommendations.

Will dentures change how I look?

Properly made dentures should actually improve your appearance by supporting your facial muscles and providing a natural smile. When teeth are missing, facial muscles can sag, creating a sunken appearance. Dentures restore proper facial contours. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will work with you to select tooth size, shape, and color that create a natural, attractive appearance appropriate for your age and features.

Can I eat normally with dentures?

With practice, most denture wearers can eat a wide variety of foods comfortably. The key is starting with soft foods and gradually introducing more challenging items as you adjust. Some very hard or sticky foods may always be difficult, but most patients adapt well and enjoy a varied diet. Implant-supported dentures provide even better chewing ability, approaching that of natural teeth.

How do I keep my dentures from slipping?

Well-fitted dentures shouldn’t slip excessively. If your dentures slip frequently, schedule an appointment for evaluation. You may need an adjustment or reline. Some slippage is normal when first adjusting to dentures, but it should improve as you develop muscle control. Denture adhesive can help, but shouldn’t be necessary with properly fitted dentures. Excessive reliance on adhesive often indicates that reline or replacement is needed.

Will I be able to taste food with dentures?

Upper dentures cover your palate, which contains taste buds and receptors for temperature. This can initially affect your ability to fully taste and sense temperature. Most people adapt and find that taste returns to near normal within a few weeks. If taste continues to be problematic, consider implant-supported dentures, which don’t cover the palate.

How often should dentures be replaced?

On average, dentures should be replaced every five to ten years. However, this varies based on how well they’re cared for and how much your mouth changes. Regular dental checkups allow Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) to monitor your dentures and advise when replacement is needed. Don’t wait until dentures break to consider replacement; ill-fitting dentures cause more rapid bone loss and other problems.

Can dentures be repaired if they break?

Many denture repairs are possible, including fixing cracks, replacing broken teeth, and repairing broken clasps. However, some damage is too extensive for repair, and replacement may be necessary. Always bring broken dentures to our office for professional evaluation. Never attempt home repairs, as these often cause more damage and can be dangerous.

What’s the difference between dentures and dental implants?

Dentures are removable appliances that rest on your gums, while dental implants are surgically placed in your jawbone to replace tooth roots. Dentures are less expensive and don’t require surgery, but they can move and don’t prevent bone loss. Implants provide superior stability and preserve bone, but cost significantly more. Implant-supported dentures combine the benefits of both options.

Will people be able to tell I’m wearing dentures?

Modern dentures are highly natural-looking. With proper fit and quality fabrication, most people won’t notice you’re wearing dentures. The key is choosing appropriate tooth size, shape, and color, ensuring proper fit, and working with an experienced dentist like Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) who understands aesthetics.

Schedule Your Denture Consultation in Hillsboro

Related Services

Explore our other dental services that may be of interest:

• Dental Implants
• All-on-4 Implants
• Dental Crowns & Bridges
• Family Dentistry
• Sedation Dentistry

If you’re missing multiple teeth or facing extractions, dentures can restore your smile, confidence, and quality of life. At Eastwood Dental Care, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) provides personalized denture solutions designed to meet your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

Whether you need full dentures, partial dentures, or are interested in implant-supported options, we’ll work with you to create a treatment plan that achieves your goals. Our commitment is to provide comfortable, natural-looking dentures that allow you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

We accept most dental insurance plans and offer flexible financing options to make your dentures affordable. Our team will help you maximize your insurance benefits and create a payment plan that works for you.

Don’t let missing teeth compromise your nutrition, health, or self-esteem. Call us today at (503) 614-0198 to schedule your consultation. During your visit, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will:

Perform a comprehensive examination of your oral health, discuss your goals, concerns, and lifestyle needs, explain all your denture options with their advantages and limitations, provide a detailed cost estimate and review your insurance coverage, and answer all your questions about the denture process.

We serve patients throughout Hillsboro and the surrounding Portland metro area, providing compassionate, expert denture care in a comfortable environment. Let us help you rediscover the joy of a complete, confident smile.

Contact Eastwood Dental Care today to take the first step toward restoring your smile with quality dentures. We look forward to serving you and helping you achieve optimal oral health and function.