21 Nov Considering Dentures? What are the first steps?
You’ve already either experienced tooth loss or have been advised of the need for teeth extraction. You know you need some type of dental prosthesis to replace lost teeth. Your dentist has advised that you should likely consider a denture; so now what is next?
How many teeth are lost? If all teeth in the arch are gone a complete denture is needed. If tooth loss is limited, a partial denture will suffice. A treatment plan will be outlined giving you all of your options, the time required for each, and the costs involved (and how much your insurer will pay, if insurance is available).
If your dentist is extracting teeth, and you don’t want to have to live with a temporary during the healing period, you can receive an immediate denture. The denture is pre-made prior to tooth extraction. The downside to the immediate denture is that during the time following teeth extraction, a natural shrinkage in gum tissue is likely to occur. This could translate into numerous adjustments being needed.
If you decide to wait until the extraction area is healed, or if tooth loss has already occurred, you will have some type of temporary put in place. Dental impressions are made and measurements taken that will allow the dental lab to fabricate a denture that will fit, look natural, and give you functionality in your day to day life.
Wax models will be made, tried in, and returned to the lab before the final denture is made. Once healing is completed, the denture is ready to be placed. Your new denture will probably feel a little cumbersome at first. You may experience increased saliva production or notice a little irritation where the attachments meet the gums.
There is an adjustment period to be expected. Your dentist will caution you what you might experience and encourage you to give your denture a chance before you ask for adjustments. Very often the adjustment period will naturally resolve issues; but your dentist wants you to be comfortable with your new dental prosthesis – do not attempt to make adjustments on your own that could ruin your denture.
If you’re experiencing continued problems, return for follow up care and/or adjustments. Learning to eat and speak with a new denture might take a little practice, but the result will be worth the time invested.
If you have more questions, contact us today to speak with a member of our caring and knowledgable team.