Why Choose a Denturist?

Specialists in Dentures — From the First Impression to the Final Fit

When it comes to dentures, not all providers are the same. Most people don't realize there's an important difference between visiting a dentist for dentures and visiting a denturist. At Berlanga Dentures, we are licensed denturist. Specialists whose entire focus is the design, fabrication, and fitting of removable dentures. And that distinction makes all the difference for your smile, your comfort, and your wallet.

What Is a Denturist?

A denturist is a licensed oral health professional who specializes exclusively in the examination, planning, crafting, and fitting of dentures and other removable oral appliances. Unlike dentists, who treat a broad range of dental conditions, denturists focus entirely on prosthetic tooth replacement, making them the most qualified provider for your denture needs.

Denturists in Washington State must pass a comprehensive practical examination on the fitting and making of dentures, as well as a rigorous written examination through the State of Washington Board of Denturists. They are also trained in microbiology, physiology, oral pathology, and head and neck anatomy.

A Washington State Pioneer Profession

Denturism has a deep history in Washington State, and the Berlanga family has been part of it from the very beginning. In November 1994, the People of the State of Washington passed Initiative 607, allowing licensed denturists to manufacture and sell dentures directly to the public. Joey Berlanga, Sr. was among the original 24 denturists who helped pass that landmark initiative.

Before I-607, patients who needed dentures had no choice but to go through a dentist, even though dentists don't make dentures themselves. They work with a separate denture lab, adding a costly middleman layer to your care. Thanks to the passing of Initiative 607, Washington residents now have the right to choose a more direct, affordable path to quality denture care.

The Berlanga Difference: Direct Care, Better Results

When you go to a dentist for dentures, the dentist takes impressions and sends them off to an outside lab. A lab technician who fabricates your dentures. The dentist then marks up the cost, sometimes two to three times the actual lab cost, before passing it along to you.

When you come to Berlanga Dentures, your denturist is your clinician and your craftsperson. We take your impressions, design your dentures, fabricate them by hand in our own on-site lab, and fit them ourselves. There's no middleman. No lab markup. No hand-off to someone who has never met you.

The result is a more personal experience, a better-fitting denture, and real savings for you.

Your Partner from Start to Finish

As a denturist patient, you play an active role in the process. You work directly with the professional who is crafting your smile. Discussing your goals, preferences, and concerns at every step. At Berlanga Dentures, we involve you in every decision and remain your partner throughout the life of your dentures.

Denturism is a recognized profession worldwide, practiced in many countries including the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. In the U.S., it is currently legislated in seven states — and Washington is proud to be among them, thanks to pioneers like the Berlanga family.

Why Choose Berlanga Dentures?

• Over 35 years of experience serving the South Puget Sound community

• 100% handcrafted dentures made in our own on-site labs — never outsourced

• Multi-generational family practice with a legacy of Washington denturism

• Direct care: the person who crafts your dentures is the same person who fits them

• More affordable than going through a dentist — no lab markups, no middlemen

• Free consultations at every visit

• Walk-in repairs accepted, including dentures made elsewhere

Ready to experience the difference a denturist makes? Contact Berlanga Dentures today to book your free consultation at one of our three convenient locations.