How to get the most Life-Like smile

By Steve Sailer DD · Updated Mar 6, 2025 · 1 min read

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Quick answer

The most natural-looking dentures combine three factors: realistic tooth shape that suits your facial structure, accurate color and surface texture that mimics the translucency of natural enamel, and correct tooth positioning that respects your unique facial symmetry. Systems such as Ivoclar Vivident offer gender-specific tooth shapes and colors designed to complement a patient's age and personality for a result that is difficult to distinguish from natural teeth.

Not all denture teeth are created equally. Ivoclar Vivident removeable dentures offer the most life like options available and are crafted using the most advanced material science to ensure an enhanced appearance and dependable wear for years to come.

You may wonder why some dentures look like real teeth while others have the obvious appearance of a denture. This is not by chance but has to do with three main factors:

  1. The shapes of the teeth
  2. The colors and the surface texture of the teeth
  3. The placement of the teeth

Ivoclar Vivident denture teeth are designed to look like natural teeth with gender specific tooth shapes and colors that complement the age and personality of the patient.

Steve Sailer, DD - Registered Denturist at North Hill Denture Clinic

Steve Sailer, DD

NAIT Denturist Program graduate, registered with the College of Alberta Denturists since 1993, 32+ years of clinical practice.

Frequently Asked

Common Questions

  • What makes some dentures look more natural than others?

    Natural-looking dentures succeed on three levels: the shape of each tooth matches the patient's facial type and gender, the color includes the subtle gradations and surface texture of real enamel, and the overall arrangement - including slight irregularities - mirrors natural tooth positioning rather than appearing uniformly perfect.

  • Can I choose the shade and shape of my denture teeth?

    Yes. During the consultation and impression appointments your denturist will discuss tooth shade options and show you samples. Your skin tone, hair color, age, and facial proportions all inform which combinations produce the most natural result.

  • Does the denture base color matter for a natural look?

    The gum-colored base (flanges) should closely match your natural gum tissue. Custom characterization - adding subtle pink and red tones to the base - contributes significantly to a realistic appearance, especially when smiling widely.

  • How long does it take to get used to the appearance of new dentures?

    Most patients adapt to the look of their new dentures within a few weeks. If the appearance concerns you at the wax try-in stage, changes are straightforward to make before the final denture is processed - that appointment is specifically designed for this feedback.

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