Many people who are missing a large number of their teeth decide to get dentures. It is possible to get a partial denture, which fills a smaller gap. However, many individuals are in need of entire plates of dentures.
If this is your situation, it may be a smart option that helps you talk, eat, and live a more confident life. Since it is an involved dental procedure, you may wonder what to expect throughout the process. Here is a closer look at what you will be facing.
Your Initial Appointment
The first step is receiving a dental examination. It is essential for your dentist to get a good grasp of your oral health and medical history.
Your dentist will look for symptoms of infection, decay, or other dental issues that may hamper the denture process. If you are receiving a full plate of dentures, final extractions will be performed.
It may be challenging to transition to dentures. You may be scared and have many questions. At this time of your first appointment, your dentist will discuss your concerns and will explain why it is a good option for you.
Molding Your Dentures
To get a perfect fit for your new dentures, it is important to get a good mold of your mouth. Your dentist will measure and use a solid wax material to form a realistic mold so that the end results fit well and look natural.
You will be asked to select a color for your new teeth as well. The mold and other information is then sent to a lab that will create your new dentures.
Placement in Your Mouth
After your dentist places your new dentures inside of your mouth, the adjustment period begins. At first, it may seem strange to have these foreign units against your gums.
Your dentist will make sure that you have no issues with the fit and that there are no painful effects. If any issues are present, your dentist will make adjustments at this appointment.
First Few Days with Dentures
It may take a few days to get used to your new dentures. You may need to learn how to speak and how to eat with them inside of your mouth.
In the beginning, your dentures may feel heavy or overly large. However, your tongue, gums, and facial muscles will eventually become used to the devices. The American Dental Association explains that minor soreness can be expected. If pain continues for a prolonged period of time, some adjustments will need to be made.
There are a few ways to make the first few days with new dentures a bit easier. For example, to aid with chewing, you should take small bites and eat soft foods. It is wise to avoid crunchy, hard, or chewy items like steak, apples, and sticky candy. To help perfect your speech patterns with dentures, you can speak at a slower rate and make sure to carefully form each word that you say.
Most people need to use adhesive products so that their dentures remain in place without issues. There are numerous items on the market that work, but you may need to experiment to uncover the substance that is best for your mouth.
Fortunately, using a little amount of the product should go a long way and help to hold your dentures securely in place. Besides security, it forms a seal so that small pieces of food do not become trapped beneath your dentures while you eat. If things seem very loose while using the adhesive, you should discuss it with your dentist. This means that things may need to be adjusted.
When you resolve to get dentures, you are sure to have many questions. This is a big decision that will affect your entire life. Getting rid of your natural teeth and inserting false teeth in their place may make you feel uneasy.
Hopefully, the above information will help you understand what to expect. Maintaining good communication with your dentist will make the process go smoothly and will lead to success. The end results will deliver a beautiful smile that restores function in your life and boosts your confidence.
