The more you know what to expect when getting dentures, the better prepared you will be for a smooth transition. Although there are different types of dentures, most people will still need a series of appointments before the completion of their dentures. The process for getting dentures involves having teeth extracted, impressions taken, temporary dentures fitted, and permanent dentures adjusted.
A fitting appointment is available at Bison Dentistry in Tonawanda and the surrounding area. Getting dentures may not only improve a person’s appearance but also restore the ability to eat and speak normally. Although chewing power with dentures is not 100% of what it would be with healthy natural teeth, it is a significant improvement from eating with missing or damaged teeth. We can help you prepare yourself for the process of getting dentures.
At Bison Dentistry, our caring and knowledgeable staff takes the time to get to know each patient. This way, we can provide the highest level of personalized care possible. Call us at (716) 696-1951 to get started on your new smile.
The Preliminary Denture Appointment
Depending on the state of a patient’s health, Bison Dentistry may recommend full extraction of all their natural teeth before moving on to the restoration step. However, this is not always the case. The first appointment consists of taking images and impressions of the patient’s mouth, with or without extractions.
Depending on the patient’s custom treatment plan, the first appointment may also involve Bison Dentistry fitting the patient with immediate dentures. However, immediate dentures are only a temporary solution until the permanent dentures are ready.
“The first appointment consists of taking images and impressions of the patient’s mouth, with or without extractions.”
Immediate Dentures
According to an article in the journal Annali di Stomatologia, temporary immediate dentures can improve a patient’s appearance as well as maintain the tone of the facial muscles and reduce post-extraction pain. Patients who receive immediate interim dentures do not have to go without teeth during the healing process while they wait for the creation of their permanent dentures.
During the recovery period, the dentist will see the patient frequently to make sure that everything is going as it should. Oral hygiene is especially important to reduce the likelihood of infection and promote healing.
“Patients who receive immediate interim dentures do not have to go without teeth during the healing process while they wait for the creation of their permanent dentures.”
Permanent Dentures
Permanent dentures are the final product that the patient will wear daily. They have a useful life of approximately five to 10 years with proper care. Therefore, a patient should expect to get new permanent dentures eventually.
As a person ages, jawbone and gum tissue tends to shrink, especially after having teeth extracted. However, this shrinkage is not a reason to get a new set of dentures, as permanent dentures can be rebased or relined to account for changes in the jawbone and gums.
“Permanent dentures can be rebased or relined to account for changes in the jawbone and gums.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: The Process for Getting Dentures in Tonawanda, NY
Fitting Appointments for Dentures
Having well-fitting dentures is vital. Dentures that do not fit well may rub a person’s gums and cause soreness and irritate the tissue. Aside from being uncomfortable for the patient, ill-fitting dentures also pose a health risk.
During the first fitting appointment and before the finalization of the permanent dentures, the patient may have the denture fit checked using wax ridges where the prosthetic teeth will eventually sit. The patient will also have the fit checked again before going home with temporary or permanent dentures to make sure the prostheses do not pinch the cheeks or slide around on the gums. The dentist will also check the patient’s new bite to ensure that the upper and lower dentures align properly.
Shortly after the insertion appointment for permanent dentures, typically between 24 and 72 hours after insertion, the patient will need a follow-up appointment. The initial follow-up is to ensure the patient is healing well and to make preliminary adjustments to the dentures. The patient should schedule another follow-up about a week later.
“The initial follow-up is to ensure the patient is healing well and to make preliminary adjustments to the dentures.”
Frequently Asked Questions About What To Expect When Getting Dentures
Q. How long is the process of getting dentures?
A. Getting dentures usually takes several appointments. Depending on the type of dentures, it could be a quick process or last several months. Ongoing follow-up care is essential.
Q. How can I know what to expect when getting dentures?
A. Consult with your dentist. The process for getting dentures varies depending on the type of dentures, the patient’s current health, and other factors. Doing research ahead of time will help reduce anxiety.
Q. Will I still need fitting appointments after getting my dentures?
A. Proper denture fit is essential, both to increase comfort and to reduce the risk of complications. Therefore, ongoing fitting appointments are necessary. After the patient heals and receives permanent dentures, the fit will change over time, and dentures will need to be adjusted.
Q. What type of dentures should I get?
A. What type of dentures are best for a patient’s particular needs depends on several different factors. Some options may be partials, full conventional dentures, or implant-supported dentures. Each patient needs a comprehensive consultation with a dentist to find out which type may be appropriate.
Q. Should I get dentures or implants?
A. Choosing between dentures and implants is a big decision. Not every patient is a candidate for implants, nor is every patient a candidate for dentures. Only a comprehensive oral exam with a qualified professional can let you know what your most suitable options are.
Q. Why do my dentures fit differently than before?
A. Over time, a person’s jaw and gums change shape. Therefore, even custom-made dentures that fit flawlessly at first will seem to have changed. As the patient’s mouth changes, so their dentures will need to be adjusted accordingly.
