Learning to Manage Your Dental Problems

A Quick Guide Of What To Expect When Getting Dentures

20 June 2023 by Charlotte Beck

Losing teeth can drastically affect your self-confidence and the overall functionality of your mouth. Fortunately, dentures can improve the look of your smile by providing removable replacements for your missing teeth. As you discuss dentures with your dentist, you should consider a few important aspects of the process. Here is a quick guide about what to expect when getting dentures. 

1) Choosing the right type of dentures

There are many types of dentures to choose from, so it's crucial to pick one that is best suited to your unique needs. The two most popular options are complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures are ideal if all of your natural teeth are missing since a full set of both upper and lower teeth are placed on top of the healed gum tissue several weeks after your natural teeth are removed. Conversely, partial dentures are recommended if most of your existing teeth are still healthy and only a few of your natural teeth must be replaced. A pink base attached to a metal piece keeps the dentures firmly seated in your mouth, although they can be removed whenever you'd like. Your dentist will help you pick the right type of dentures based on your personal preferences and the condition of your teeth and gums.

2) Understanding the fitting process for your dentures

At your initial appointment, your dentist will gather measurements of your mouth and take impressions using a special mold to ensure that your new dentures fit perfectly in your mouth. After the first visit, you'll have some additional impressions made to assess your bite registration (how your upper and lower teeth meet together when you bite down). A dental lab will then create your personalized dentures with a natural look, color, and shape. You'll need to return to your dentist to have the dentures properly fitted and adjusted as necessary. Throughout the entire process, you'll be able to voice any concerns you have about the quality of your dentures so that the final product is exactly what you want. 

3) Taking care of your new dentures 

Once you receive your dentures, it's essential that you follow the aftercare instructions from your dentist. Your dentist will provide you with guidance about a schedule for wearing your dentures to help you get used to having them in your mouth for longer periods of time. You'll also need to keep your dentures clean with a regular oral hygiene plan, which includes using a soft brush and gentle denture cleanser to eliminate plaque and food debris. You should also soak your dentures overnight and rinse them thoroughly before re-inserting them into your mouth. Furthermore, make sure that you attend all follow-up dental appointments and let your dentist know if your dentures become loose.

Choosing to get dentures can be a life-changing decision, as dentures will give your smile a natural appearance and greatly improve your oral health. Contact your dentist to learn more about dentures. 

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