Getting dentures is a life-changing event. If you’re missing teeth, dentures can make your smile whole and improve the way you eat and talk, all at the same time. Replacing your teeth with dentures is a positive thing, especially if you’ve long struggled with unhealthy teeth and gums. Still, getting used to dentures takes time.
Below, we’ll explore some of the things you can do to get to know your dentures.
Getting to Know Dentures
Dentures are removable oral appliances that can replace missing teeth. Dentures come in different types, including:
- Full dentures. Traditional full dentures replace all the teeth in the mouth and can be removed at any time.
- Partial dentures. Partial dentures are removable devices that replace only a few teeth at a time.
- Immediate dentures. Immediate dentures, also known as “temporary dentures” are the dentures that you’ll receive immediately after a tooth extraction, while you’re waiting for your final dentures to be ready.
- Implant-retained dentures. Implant-retained dentures are dentures that are anchored to the body with implants inserted into the jaw. Implant-retained dentures click into place and can be removed by the individual.
- Implant-supported dentures. Implant-supported dentures are similar to implant-retained dentures, but unlike implant-retained dentures, implant-supported dentures cannot be removed by the individual.
Consulting Your Dentist First
If you’re a candidate for dentures, your dentist will start with an x-ray and exam, so they can recommend the best replacement teeth for your needs. Dentures aren’t the only option available to people who are missing teeth. Implants and bridges may also be considered.
Making Your Dentures
Once you and your dentist have decided that dentures are the right option for you, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth, which will then be used in a lab to create a model of your mouth. The model of your mouth will be used to create your dentures. Once the dentures are made, they’ll be polished to a shine and returned to your dentist for fitting.
Fitting Your New Dentures
Your dentist will call you back into the office for a fitting when the dentures arrive. If the dentures need adjustment, the dentist will make them or have them made. The dentist will look for places where the dentures place excess pressure on the mouth. You may need to return to the office multiple times to get the right fit.
Denture Lifespan
Typical dentures can last about 7 to 10 years but need to be relined every couple of years when you notice that your dentures no longer fit the way they used to.
Taking Care of Your Dentures
- Remove at night. Take off your dentures every night to give your gums a break.
- Clean with denture brush and paste. Use a denture brush and paste to clean your dentures when you remove them.
- Soak in a denture solution. Soak your dentures in a denture solution.
- Maintain oral hygiene. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your gums, roof of the mouth, and tongue every night when you remove your dentures.
Your dentures will last longer if you take good care of them.
New to Dentures? Work With Your Dentist in Tampa
Dentures can take some getting used to. The dental professionals at Weninger Dentistry can help! Contact Weninger Dentistry today to make an appointment.