If you have lost your teeth or had them extracted due to disease or injury, getting dentures will help you restore your smile. However, it can be a bit stressful if you're not quite sure about what to expect. Here is what you should know to help reduce your anxiety and make the right decision when gettting dentures for the first time.

What are dentures?

Dentures are artificial, removable replacements for missing teeth. They are cutom-manufactured in a dental laboratory, based on your mouth impression or digital scan and the color of your teeth and gums to produce a natural appearance.

You may need full dentures or partial dentures, depending on how many teeth need to be replaced. Your dentist will suggest which denture type is best for you.

What to Expect During the First-Time Denture Fitting Process?

You can expect he following steps to take place during the denture fitting process:

• Tooth removal - Dr. Moore will guide you through the steps and offer advice for aftercare to make you feel relaxed and fully informed during extractions.
• Mouth Impressions/Digital Scans - Impressions or digital scans of your mouth will be taken to fabricate a custom denture for you.
• Wax Models - Your artificial teeth are set in wax so that you have a better idea of how your final denture will appear and work.
• Denture Fitting - Your final denture is fitted, and you will be given instructions on how you should care for it.

How Long Does it Take to Get Dentures?

You can expect to have 2 or 3 appointments with Dr. Moore, for 3 to 6 weeks until you get your new dentures. However, it may differ from person to person.

How Do You Put In Dentures for the First Time?

When you start wearing dentures, they may seem loose. Until you get used to keeping your dentures in place with the support of your cheeks and tongue muscles, they may shift while chewing and cause food or liquids to get inside them. After a few weeks, these problems will go away as your oral tissues adapt to wearing dentures. However, if you still feel irritation or excessive soreness in any area, contact our office to schedule an adjustment. Adjustments are a normal part of having a new denture.

How Long Will New Dentures Hurt?

On your first day with new dentures, you may feel like you want to give up. It can be a few months before you get fully used to your new dentures. Sore spots on your gums may occur. This can be fixed by coming in for an appointment for an adjustment. After you get your denture adjusted, you shouldn't have any more soreness or pain in your mouth.

No two people are the same. As you get used to your new dentures, remember: What one person finds annoying and painful, another may not. Each person feels something different. Even if you've had dentures before, your new dentures will feel different from those you've used in the past.

Dentures are used to restore the appearance of your smile. If you are seeking an option to restore your ability to eat normally - please call us and ask us if you are a candidate for implant dentures! We are the leading denture clinic in the Four Corners area. Call our office today at 970-259-2264, or visit us today to see how dentures can improve your smile!

Author
Dixie Moore