The Process of Getting Dentures
If you're missing teeth or the ones you have are in bad shape, the dentist may suggest dentures for your situation. Depending on the condition of your natural teeth, you may be a candidate for either partial or full dentures. Partial dentures will be designed around your natural teeth while filling in the gaps with replacement teeth. Full dentures will be complete appliances that replace all your teeth. You can learn all about the process of getting dentures and what to expect in this article.
What to expect at your first appointment
When you go in for your first appointment toward getting dentures, the dentist will take a mold of your teeth and/or gums. This mold will be used to make a model of your mouth for the dentures to be designed around.
After the mold has been taken, the dentist will extract any teeth that need to be removed. This part will be the most unpleasant in the entire process. Your dentist will give you anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable during the process and they may prescribe you pain relievers to help with the recovery.
You and the dentist will go over the overall look of your dentures. If you are getting partial dentures, the teeth will be shaped and colored to closely resemble your natural teeth. If you are going to be getting full dentures, then you have a bit more input in how you want your dentures to look. You can give the dentist preferences on how you would like the teeth on the dentures to be shaped and what shade you would like them to be.
What to expect at your second appointment
Once your dentures are made, your dentist will have you come back in for a fitting appointment. You will put the dentures in and the dentist will make sure they fit correctly. If there are some problem areas, the dentist can shave them down to correct the issues. By the end of the appointment, you should leave with a new set of teeth that fit correctly and look great.
It will take you a while to get used to the dentures. Be sure to wear them often so you can get used to them faster. Take good care of them and continue to keep your gums clean. Once you get used to having the dentures in you'll be able to eat, talk, and smile as you normally would.