Getting Your First Dentures: What to Expect from Start to Finish

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Licensed denturist explaining denture options and costs to patient during free initial consultation

December 15, 2025

Your smile is one of the first things that others notice about you. And when you decide that it’s time to replace any rotten or missing teeth, the first steps can seem overwhelming and intimidating, particularly if you don’t know much about the denture process.

Whether you need a few teeth replaced or a complete smile restoration, the journey from first consultation to wearing your new dentures is something many people experience. And, you're not alone. This guide covers what to expect, from initial appointment through adjustments, so you can approach the process with confidence.

Not sure where you are in the journey? Check out our timeline for how long it takes to get dentures.

Recognizing how to navigate through the various denture, treatment plan options and costs, is key to getting the improved smile that you want and deserve. Here are six tips that will help you get the results that you desire:

1. Not all teeth are bad

“A lot of times, patients assume that because their own, natural teeth don’t look like smiles that we commonly see on the faces of movie stars, magazine covers and social media celebrities, then all is lost and that they all have to come out,” says Saberton Denture & Implant owner and denturist, P.J. Saberton. “Frequently, a good dental hygiene cleaning and some minor fillings can help preserve any relatively strong teeth, and any teeth that do need to be pulled, can be replaced with a partial denture. A partial denture is made to match the shade and size of the existing teeth, blending in as naturally as possible.

2. Understand the difference between a denture and a bridge

Dental bridges are fixed, meaning that they can only be removed by a dentist. Bridges are great solutions for anyone missing one or more consecutive teeth. The fixed aspect means that bridges don’t have to be removed after meals or at night and can be brushed and cared for in a similar way to your own teeth.

However, if you’re missing teeth in more than one area of a jaw, bridges become quite costly, as you will need a separate bridge for each gap. In these instances, partial dentures become a much more practical and affordable option because one partial denture appliance can replace any number of missing gaps in an individual jaw. We can work with you to explore the types of dentures available, and find the most practical and affordable option for your unique situation.

3. Balance financial and health needs

Only you can fully appreciate what you can and cannot afford, as far as treatment costs go. “Our role is to describe all of the treatment plan options,” says Saberton “Frequently we see people choose a cheaper option because they instinctively don’t want to spend a lot of money, only to be disappointed in the results. More often than not, the best treatment plan option is the one with the best long-term approach.”

Financing Your Dentures

Cost shouldn't prevent you from getting the care you need. At Saberton, we offer flexible payment plans and help you navigate CDCP coverage to minimize out-of-pocket costs. Many patients are surprised how affordable quality dentures can be when you explore all options.

Government Support: CDCP Coverage

If you're a Canadian resident aged 60+, you may qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), which covers denture costs and can significantly reduce what you pay out of pocket. Saberton is a registered CDCP provider and can help you along the way!

4. Dental professionals are ethically bound to give you every treatment plan option available

In all situations, there are multiple treatment plan options, including not doing any treatment. Don’t hesitate to ask your dental professional to describe all of the available options that apply to your own circumstance.

At Saberton, we believe education comes first. During your free consultation, we'll walk you through every option without pressure, so you can make the best decision for your unique situation.

For Your Consideration: Implant-Supported Denture Options

While this guide focuses on traditional dentures, many people ask about implant-supported options during their free consultation. If you're considering tooth extraction, now is the time to ask about implant-supported dentures, which offer superior stability and can be life-changing for some patients.

The key: ask about implants BEFORE you have teeth extracted, as this affects your surgical and treatment planning options. Your denturist can assess whether you're a candidate.

5. Practice eating those first few meals at home

Everyone is eager to go out and enjoy a nice meal with new dentures. However, it’s important to give the muscles of your mouth the chance to adapt and learn how to control the food and the denture.

For detailed tips on eating with new dentures, check out our guide on chewing and talking with new dentures, which includes exercises to speed up adjustment and build confidence.

6. Drastic changes can surprise your friends and family

“One of the many concerns that individuals express about their new denture is the concern that friends and family will notice a change in their appearance,” describes Saberton. “Our advice is to change up some other part of your appearance, like a new haircut, eyeglasses, or cosmetic makeup approach to draw any unwanted attention to your new smile, should you be self-conscious.”

The Bigger Picture: Confidence with Your New Smile

Beyond the appearance tips, the most important thing is choosing quality dentures that actually fit your face and mouth. Learn more about how dentures impact facial structure and appearance. The right fit can restore confidence in ways that go far beyond just appearance.

Have more questions about the denture journey?

Check out our comprehensive FAQ about dentures for answers to 75+ common questions.

Ready to get started?

Schedule a free consultation at any of our 8 convenient clinic locations across Ontario.