Dentures
Dr. Lee compares full and partial dentures according to the number and position of missing teeth, the natural teeth that remain, and the support available from the gums and underlying ridge.
Dentures in Seattle
Dr. Jaime Lee plans removable tooth replacement for patients missing several or all teeth. She compares full, partial, and implant-retained denture designs according to the teeth that remain, gum and ridge support, bite, and functional goals.
The evaluation determines whether a full, partial, or implant-retained denture best fits the missing-tooth pattern and available support.
Dentures
How do dentures replace missing teeth?
Dentures rebuild missing tooth surfaces across part or all of an arch so chewing, speech, and visible tooth position can be restored with a removable prosthesis.
Dental implants can be used to provide additional support and retention for a removable denture when the gums and bone alone do not provide enough stability.
- Several or all teeth missing
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Teeth that cannot be saved
- A loose denture you want to stabilize
What denture options are available?
Snap-in dentures
A snap-in denture connects to dental implants for additional retention while remaining removable for daily cleaning. Dr. Lee evaluates the available bone, implant support, and denture design together.
Caring for your dentures
Dentures need daily cleaning to remove food and buildup. Regular check-ups allow Dr. Lee to evaluate your gums and adjust the fit if your mouth changes over time.
Denture repairs
If a denture cracks or breaks, Dr. Lee evaluates whether it can be repaired. Minor repairs can often be completed the same day in the office, and repairs that need a dental lab usually take about one week.
What is the process for getting dentures?
- Evaluate the mouth. Dr. Lee evaluates the missing-tooth pattern, remaining teeth, gums, supporting ridge, bite, and any existing denture.
- Restorative records. The supporting tissues, jaw relationship, and intended tooth positions are recorded for the denture design.
- Denture design. The prosthesis is planned around support, tooth position, bite, and the appearance required for the arch.
- Fit evaluation. Dr. Lee evaluates support, stability, pressure areas, and bite when the denture is delivered.
- Follow-up. The fit is reassessed as the patient uses the denture and as the supporting tissues change over time.
Are dentures right for me?
Dentures may be appropriate for patients missing several or all teeth, or when several remaining teeth cannot support a durable restorative plan. Dr. Lee evaluates the remaining teeth, gums, ridge, and bite before selecting the denture design.
When implant retention is being considered, CBCT imaging and the examination help determine whether the available bone and restorative space can support that option.
What should you expect when wearing dentures?
New dentures can change how chewing and speech feel while the patient adapts to the prosthesis. If a denture creates persistent soreness, pressure, or instability, schedule a fit evaluation so Dr. Lee can identify whether adjustment is needed.
Clean your dentures every day with a soft brush and a non-abrasive cleaner, as regular toothpaste can scratch them. Follow your dentist's advice about taking them out at night, and keep them in their case when they are out of your mouth.
When should dentures be checked or replaced?
Schedule an evaluation if you are missing teeth, have damaged teeth that cannot be restored, or have a loose or painful denture. Dr. Lee assesses the remaining teeth, gums, supporting ridge, and bite before recommending a design. Fit may need adjustment after delivery.
What affects the cost of dentures?
The cost of a custom denture depends on whether you are replacing upper teeth, lower teeth, or both, any necessary extractions or other care beforehand, and whether implants are used for support. Smile Art provides an estimate for the entire treatment plan before care begins.
PPO insurance
Smile Art accepts all PPO insurance.
Contact the office with your plan details to ask about coverage and network participation.
Insurance acceptance does not mean every denture option is covered; benefits depend on your plan.
Third-party financing
Available through:
- CareCredit
- Cherry
- LendingClub
Financing is subject to the provider’s approval and terms.
Who provides dentures at Smile Art?
Dr. Jaime Lee earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Loma Linda University in 2002 and is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI). She uses this implant training when planning dentures that need implants for additional support and retention.
Dr. Jaime Lee provides denture planning at Smile Art. She can coordinate extractions, the denture design, implant support, and follow-up care so the steps are planned together.
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030
Seattle, WA 98104
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.