Dentures are a common solution recommended by dentists to restore your smile. They offer an affordable, convenient, and swift means to fill the gaps left by missing teeth. However, the prospect of getting dentures for the first time can be daunting if you are uncertain about what to expect.
To ease your concerns, here are some essential information and tips for first time denture wearers:
What are Dentures?
Dentures are artificial, removable tooth replacements designed to fill the gaps left by missing teeth. They can be either full or partial, catering to the replacement needs of all your teeth on either the upper or lower arch or just a few missing teeth. Regardless of the type you require, these dental devices are custom-made based on impressions of your mouth, matching the colour of your teeth and gums to ensure a natural appearance.
While dentures were once made of porcelain and plastics, modern dentures are crafted from hard resin. It’s important to note that the materials used for denture teeth are more fragile than natural teeth and can easily chip or crack if not properly cared for. Additionally, they wear down faster than natural teeth, necessitating replacement every 5 years at least.
Important Facts About Dentures
If you’re considering dentures but feeling anxious, here are some important facts to know what to expect with first-time dentures:
- Diverse Reasons for Needing Dentures
Several factors can lead to the need for dentures, including:
- Dental Trauma: Engaging in sports and physical activities or experiencing accidents like slips and falls can result in dental injuries, potentially leading to tooth loss. While less severe trauma can often be addressed with dental bridges, dentures may be the only option in more serious cases.
- Tooth Loss and Gum Disease: Extensive tooth decay can lead to tooth loss, and untreated periodontal or gum disease can also result in tooth loss as it damages the blood vessels supporting teeth.
- Eating Disorders: Conditions like bulimia and anorexia can accelerate dental damage due to regurgitation. Stomach acid from vomiting can erode tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay and the need for dentures. A lack of a balanced diet in cases of anorexia can also cause tooth brittleness and eventual loss.
- Genetics: Certain genetic dental conditions may increase the risk of tooth loss, while conditions like anodontia can cause a complete absence of teeth, necessitating dentures as the most effective treatment.
- Different Types of Dentures
There are two main types of dentures to address varying needs:
- Complete Dentures: Used when all teeth are missing, complete dentures can be categorized as “conventional” or “immediate.” Conventional dentures are placed after tooth removal and the initial healing of gum tissues, typically 8 to 12 weeks after the extraction. Immediate dentures, on the other hand, can be fitted immediately after tooth removal, providing temporary teeth during the healing process. However, they require more adjustments than conventional dentures as the gums and bones shrink over time. Immediate dentures are often a temporary solution until conventional dentures are ready.
- Partial Dentures: Designed for cases where one or more natural teeth remain, partial dentures consist of replacement teeth attached to a plastic base connected to a metal framework. They effectively fill gaps left by missing teeth and prevent the shifting of adjacent teeth.
Before Getting Your Dentures
Feeling nervous about the prospect of having something new in your mouth is entirely understandable. At this point, you might be curious about the process and what to expect. If you’ve committed to getting dentures, here’s an overview of the next steps:
- First Appointment
During your initial appointment, your dentist will conduct a comprehensive dental examination to evaluate the condition of your teeth and identify any underlying issues that could pose future complications. Following the assessment, the dentist will recommend the type of dentures that best suit your needs, considering factors such as your age, the condition of your teeth and gums, and your chewing strength. This is also an opportune time to ask any questions you may have to alleviate your concerns.
- Denture Fitting
For partial dentures, your dentist will take an impression or hard imprint of your teeth during your first appointment. In the case of complete dentures, all your remaining teeth must be extracted to accommodate the new dentures properly. It’s important to understand that tooth extraction is a necessary step for proper denture placement. Depending on your evaluation, your dentist may also recommend pre-prosthetic surgery to address any dental issues before fitting the dentures.
- Temporary Dentures
After tooth extraction, your dentist will order immediate or temporary dentures, which you’ll use until the permanent ones are ready. Be prepared for regular check-ups with your dentist during this period to make necessary adjustments to the dentures as your mouth heals.
- Permanent Dentures
Once your mouth has fully healed, typically taking 3-6 months, your permanent or conventional dentures will be inserted.
After Receiving Your Dentures
Post-operation care is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health, and follow these steps to adjust when putting your dentures for the first time:
- Caring for Sore Gums
It’s common to experience sore areas in your gums on your first day with dentures. Never attempt to adjust the dentures yourself; this should only be done by denture technicians. Dentists typically provide a 24-hour observation period before making any adjustments. To alleviate discomfort and swelling, apply an ice pack immediately after the procedure. You can also consult your dentist for pain relievers and follow their instructions.
- Practicing Chewing and Eating with Dentures
Eating with new dentures is a different experience from using natural teeth. While natural teeth allow you to eat almost anything in any manner, dentures require careful consideration of your food choices. Initially, opt for soft foods and chew on both sides to stabilize your dentures. Chew slowly and attentively, avoiding overstuffing your mouth, which can be painful.
- Practicing Speech with New Dentures
Speaking may require some getting used to for the first-time dentures. Some pronunciation may be different, and your tongue movements may require adjustment. However, these issues are temporary and can be improved with practice. Exercise your tongue movements, use challenging words, and speak aloud to regain proper speech.
- Regular Denture Cleaning
Consistent denture care is essential. Keep in mind that your usual cleaning methods won’t apply to dentures. Avoid using stiff brushes; instead, use soft and gentle ones to prevent any accidental damage. You may need to soak your dentures nightly to maintain their condition.
- Scheduled Dental Visits
While you may eventually become comfortable with your new dentures after a few weeks, it’s essential to continue with your scheduled dental visits. These appointments allow your dentist to assess the fit and condition of your dentures, along with the overall health of your mouth.
Not knowing what to expect can be concerning but armed with this knowledge about first-time dentures, you are well-prepared to move forward. At Bloor West Dentistry, you’re in capable hands. Our family dentist in Toronto guarantees your dentures are crafted from premium materials and precision techniques. Let us restore your beautiful smile. Call us today at (416) 763-1283.
