It’s astonishing that 17% of people lose all of their teeth by the time they turn 65.
Are you about to embark on the journey of getting dentures? Whether you’re replacing missing teeth or upgrading your current set, the procedure is a crucial step toward achieving a confident smile and improved oral health.
Lots of people have misconceptions about what happens during a denture fitting. Read on to walk through five essential things to expect during a denture fitting appointment.
1. Initial Consultation and Denture Fitting Evaluation
The first step on your denture journey is getting a consultation with your dentist or prosthodontist. This appointment sets the stage for the entire denture procedure. During the consultation, your oral health professional will thoroughly examine your mouth and discuss your dental history.
They’ll assess the condition of your remaining teeth and gums since this information is crucial for determining the best type of dentures for you. Your dentist will also inquire about your preferences and expectations. Be sure to discuss the following things:
- Your budget
- Desired appearance
- Functional needs
These factors will guide the denture fitting process.
2. Denture Impressions
Once the initial assessment is complete, your dentist will move forward with taking impressions of your mouth. These impressions are an integral part of the denture procedure since they ensure your dentures fit in a comfortable and secure manner.
To create accurate impressions, your dentist will use a moldable material that you’ll need to bite into gently. This process may feel a bit unusual, but it’s a necessary step to capture the unique contours of your mouth.
These impressions serve as the blueprint for crafting your custom dentures. They help ensure that the final product fits snugly, which is essential for both comfort and functionality.
3. Try On Dentures
After the impressions are taken, the next step in the denture fitting process is the try-on stage. This is where you’ll get a sneak peek at your new dentures.
You have to note that these aren’t the final dentures. They’re a temporary set called “try-on dentures” or “wax dentures.” During this appointment, your dentist will provide you with these wax dentures to evaluate their fit and appearance.
The try-on dentures are an essential part of the denture procedure because they allow you to make adjustments before the final dentures are created. You’ll have the opportunity to assess the fit, bite, and aesthetics of the dentures and provide feedback to your dentist. If you experience any discomfort or notice any issues with the fit, be sure to communicate this to your dentist.
They can make the necessary adjustments to ensure your dentures are comfortable and functional. It’s crucial to be honest about any concerns you have during this stage. It will lead to a better final result.
4. Final Denture Appointment
You and your dentist need to reach a point where you’re satisfied with the fit and appearance of the try-on dentures. The next step is the final denture appointment. During this visit, your custom dentures will be fabricated based on the impressions taken earlier and the feedback you provided during the try-on stage.
Your dentist will adjust the final dentures with care to ensure they align perfectly with your natural bite. It’s essential to check the bite because an improper alignment can lead to discomfort and difficulty when eating and speaking. Your dentist will also ensure that the colour and shape of the dentures match your preferences.
When your final dentures are ready, your dentist will give you detailed instructions on how to care for them the right way. Proper denture maintenance is crucial for their longevity and your oral health.
5. Adapting to Your New Dentures
Getting used to your new dentures is an essential part of the denture procedure. It’s common to experience some initial discomfort or difficulty speaking and eating, but this is quite normal and no cause for anxiety. Your mouth needs time to adjust to the new prosthetic like any other part of your body adapting to change.
During the initial days or weeks, it’s a good idea to stick to softer foods and start to reintroduce your regular diet as you become more comfortable with your dentures. Be patient and persistent since it may take some time to regain your full confidence in speaking and eating.
Regular follow-up appointments with your dentist will help address any issues or discomfort you may experience during this adjustment period. They can make necessary adjustments to improve the fit and function of your dentures.
Maintaining Your Dentures
Once you’ve adapted to your new dentures, it’s paramount to understand the value of proper maintenance. Like natural teeth, dentures require regular care to keep them in excellent condition. Here are some essential tips for maintaining your dentures:
Daily Cleaning
Dentures can accumulate plaque and food particles like natural teeth. To prevent this buildup, it’s crucial to clean your dentures every day. Use a soft-bristle brush or a denture-specific brush to clean all surfaces of your dentures.
Soaking
Follow the soaking instructions provided with your denture cleaning product. Different products may have specific recommendations.
Handle with Care
When cleaning or handling your dentures, be gentle. To prevent accidents, it’s a good idea to place a towel or soft surface in the sink or on the counter when cleaning your dentures.
Oral Hygiene
Even if you have full dentures, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene. This means brushing well every morning before inserting your dentures. This practice helps stimulate blood flow and keeps your mouth healthy.
Do You Need a Denture Procedure?
The denture fitting process involves several crucial steps, from the initial consultation to the final denture appointment. Knowing what will happen will ensure a smoother transition to life with dentures. Remember that open communication with your dentist is key to achieving the best possible fit and function for your custom dentures.
Are you in need of stellar oral care in the Lexington or London, Kentucky areas? Our team at Jenkins, Morrow & Gayheart OMS would love to take care of you. Contact us to discuss our dental services and book your appointment.
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