What To Know About Getting Dentures

Dentures are prosthetic appliances that restore smiles by replacing missing teeth. Prosthetics can restore functions like chewing and speaking. Here is what to know about getting dentures:

Understanding Denture Types

A complete denture replaces all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. A partial denture uses clasps to attach the prosthetics to your remaining teeth, filling gaps where teeth are missing. Partial options include removable, fixed, and implants, which attach to posts embedded in your jawbone for stability. Overdentures can be fitted over implants to provide a more secure placement.

Dentists may fit an immediate denture when teeth must be extracted during the same appointment. They create molds of your jawline to craft a temporary prosthetic that allows function as the gums heal. Once healing is complete, final prosthetics can be fabricated. Dentists review your oral health to determine whether an immediate or conventional denture suits your needs.

Fitting Process

Achieving the right fit for dentures may require several dental visits. Dentists will make impressions of your mouth to create denture models. Wax or plastic mock-ups are made from the impressions to review the shape and bite. Any needed adjustments for comfort and speech may be completed before the final prosthetics are fabricated.

Adjusting to Dental Prosthetics

Give yourself time to acclimate to the prosthetics’ sensation. Many dentists provide tips for relearning speech and adjusting your bite. They may also recommend eating a soft diet and gradually introducing chewier foods as you become comfortable with the dentures’ fit and function. Visit your dentist if any sore spots develop, as adjustments may be required.

Caring for Your Dentures

Most dentists recommend removing your prosthetics at night and soaking them in a cleaning solution. This prevents them from drying out and warping. After removing your dentures, brush your gums, especially after eating, to prevent gum disease.

Use a denture brush to remove plaque buildup, which helps prevent odors. Clean dentures over a sink lined with a towel, as dropping them on hard surfaces can cause cracks. When not wearing dental prosthetics, store them in a protective case away from heat.

Recognizing Denture Replacement Signs

Changes in your mouth’s anatomy may cause a denture to loosen or rub, leading to wear and tear. Signs that you may need to replace your dental prosthetics include difficulty chewing, poor fit, challenges with clear speech, unusual odors, and mouth sores. Visit your dentist if you experience these issues. They may recommend relining the appliance or fabricating new ones to accommodate anatomical changes.

Visit a Dentist Today

Replacing lost teeth with dental prosthetics can help improve nutrition by enabling effective chewing of foods with diverse textures and consistencies. Complete or partial dentures often help boost self-esteem by filling gaps in your smile and supporting clear speech. Appliances may also prevent facial sagging and the sunken look that can occur with missing teeth. When selecting an option that aligns with your needs, learn about denture types, the fitting timeline, and daily maintenance requirements. Contact your dentist for a consultation and enjoy a complete smile today.