Who full and partial dentures are for
Full dentures are for people who have lost, or need to lose, all of the teeth in the upper arch, the lower arch or both.
Partial dentures are for people who still have healthy natural teeth and need to fill the spaces between them. A partial can also be a practical alternative when a bridge or implants are not the right fit.
How it works, step by step
- We examine your mouth and talk through full dentures, partials and other ways to replace missing teeth.
- We take impressions and measurements of your jaws and bite.
- You try in a trial version so we can check fit, appearance and bite together.
- We deliver the finished denture and adjust it for comfort.
- We see you for follow-up adjustments as your mouth adapts.
What to expect at our Hanford office
Getting used to a new denture takes some time. Speaking and eating feel different at first, and it is normal to need a few adjustment visits. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces and work up from there.
Your jaw and gums change over the years, so a denture that fit well when it was made can loosen. Regular checkups let us reline or adjust it and check the health of your gums and any remaining teeth.
Benefits
- Restores the ability to chew and speak more easily
- Supports the lips and cheeks for a fuller facial appearance
- Replaces many teeth without surgery
- Partials help keep remaining teeth from shifting
Aftercare
Clean your denture every day with gentle cleansing, and brush your gums, tongue and any natural teeth.
Keep the denture moist when you are not wearing it so it holds its shape, and handle it over a towel or a sink of water in case you drop it.
Cost and insurance
Cost depends on the type of denture and the materials. Many dental plans cover a portion. We provide an estimate in advance.
Dentures rest on the gums and do not stop the gradual bone loss that follows tooth loss. Dental implants can add stability for some patients. We will talk through whether that makes sense for you.
You can pay your bill online, and our new patient page explains what to bring to your first visit.
Your dentist: Daniel W. Unzicker, DDS
Dr. Daniel Unzicker, DDS, provides full and partial dentures at our Hanford office. He is a general dentist who was born and raised in Hanford, graduated with high honors from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in 2012 and completed a general practice residency at Los Angeles County + USC Medical Center.
Page last updated November 10, 2026. This page is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. If you have significant facial swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or trauma to the head or jaw, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
