Dentures
A typical case, in 6 steps over 4 visits. Typically weeks to months to get used to new dentures. Every step names its source.
Not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician. Every step names its source.
Dentures · Visit 1
Exam and X-rays
The jaws, gums and any remaining teeth are examined. Dental X-rays check the thickness of the jawbone.
Source: clevelandclinic.org
Steps in a typical case
Exam and X-rays
The jaws, gums and any remaining teeth are examined. Dental X-rays check the thickness of the jawbone.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Impressions
Impressions of the upper and lower jaws are taken, often a first one and then a final one. A dental lab uses them to make a model of the mouth.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Wax bite blocks
Wax blocks are used to work out where the artificial teeth will sit and how the upper and lower teeth meet.
Visit 2 · Source 1
Building the denture
The lab adds the artificial teeth, checks that the upper and lower teeth fit together and polishes the denture.
Visit 2 · Source 1
Fitting
The new denture is placed in the mouth, the fit is checked and final adjustments are made.
Visit 3 · Source 1
Adjustments
Several adjustments are common in the first couple of weeks as the gums settle. Getting used to new dentures can take weeks or sometimes months.
Visit 4 · Source 1
Typical trade-offs
| Visits | Typically several visits to get the fit right. Source 1 |
|---|---|
| Time to final result | Typically weeks to months to get used to new dentures. Source 1 |
| How long it lasts | Typically lasts 7 to 10 years, with a reline every 1 to 2 years. Source 1 |
| Upkeep | Typical upkeep: brushing the denture daily and soaking it overnight in denture solution. Source 1 |
Figures for a typical case from the sources below. A dentist can say how a given case differs.
Questions to ask your dentist
- The typical case takes 4 visits. How many would I need, and what happens at each one?
- What are my other options, including waiting, and what happens if I wait?
- How long does it usually last in a case like mine, and what upkeep will it need?
- Will it hurt, and what can I eat or do while it heals?
- What will it cost me, and will my insurance cover it? Ask which billing codes apply (the typical case uses D5110, D5120, D5213, D5214).
- How many of these have you done, and who would do mine?
Sources
- Dentures. Cleveland Clinic. my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10900-dentures. Accessed November 14, 2026.
Osler Press procedure library, version 2026.11.0. Billing codes for the typical case: D5110, D5120, D5213, D5214.