Important Facts About Dentures That First Time Wearers Must Know

There’s always a first time for everything, like the first time you’ll consider wearing dentures in Delray Beach. You can’t predict the future, and you’ll never know when exactly you’ll lose some or all your permanent teeth, but when that time comes, you should replace them right away. 

We understand that the idea of losing your teeth can be quite unpleasant, but unfortunately, it can happen, especially if you don’t practice good oral hygiene. Poor dental hygiene predisposes you to a plethora of oral diseases that will eventually cause your teeth to loosen from their sockets and imminently fall off. When it does happen, you may want to give dentures a try. 

Facts About Dentures a First Time Wearer Must Know 

What Is a Denture? 

A denture is a removable dental prosthesis designed to replace missing teeth. There are two types of dentures – partial and complete. Partial dentures are recommended for people with missing teeth but still have natural teeth left. Meanwhile, complete dentures are for individuals who have lost all their teeth. 

Partial Dentures 

A removable partial denture consists of artificial teeth anchored to a pink-colored base usually made of plastic. Often, the artificial teeth are attached by metal support that keeps them in place inside your mouth. They are ideal for people who still have one or more remaining teeth left in their upper or lower jaw. 

A fixed bridge is another type of denture designed to replace one or more missing teeth by adding crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap and attached are artificial teeth to fill in the space. 

A huge advantage of partial dentures is that not only do they replace missing teeth, but they also prevent your existing teeth from shifting out of place. A more realistic option is a precision partial denture. It’s also removable, but instead of using metal clasps, it utilizes internal attachments that are connected to nearby crowns. 

Complete Dentures 

Complete dentures are categorized as immediate and conventional. Immediate dentures are fabricated in advance and can be placed inside your mouth right after your teeth are removed. This means you don’t have to spend days without teeth while your gums are still healing. 

However, it’s important to note that your gums and bones can reduce in size during the healing period after tooth removal, so you might not get a good fit. The downside to immediate dentures is that they require more frequent adjustments to get an accurate fit. 

Meanwhile, partial dentures are only designed and fabricated when your teeth have been removed, and your gums have already healed. Your new teeth will be ready in about eight to twelve weeks after teeth removal. 

How Are Dentures Made? 

Making your new dentures can take several weeks and frequent appointments. Once your prosthodontist determines what type of denture is best for your case, the following steps are made: 

o   Your prosthodontist will obtain impressions of your jaw and measure how they relate to each other. Measuring your jaw also helps determine the amount of space between them. 

o   Next, a denture model is made (either wax or plastic), and you’ll be asked to fit it in your mouth several times for a more accurate design. Before the final denture is fabricated, you can make suggestions for its shape and color. 

o   The final denture cast is made 

o   Denture adjustments are made 

Are Dentures Uncomfortable? 

We’re not going to lie – wearing a denture for the first time can feel uncomfortable since your mouth is still getting used to it. But give it a few weeks, and your muscles and oral tissues like your tongue and inner cheeks will adjust to your new dental prosthesis. 

You may also experience some soreness and slight irritation during the adjustment period, but don’t worry, you’ll get used to wearing it over time, and these issues will go away. 

Will Dentures Look Fake? 

Today’s advancements in technology have made it possible to design and create dentures that resemble the look of natural teeth. In fact, they may even make your smile more attractive. Replacing missing teeth with dentures will also enhance your facial appearance. 

Is Eating Difficult With Dentures? 

Eating with your new dental prosthesis can be challenging, but you’ll get used to it with consistent practice. Not to worry because the discomfort will only last a few weeks. We recommend you start with soft foods like smoothies, yogurt, and mashed potatoes during this period. 

As you transition into solids, cut your food into small pieces, and make sure you chew on both sides of your teeth. Be careful when eating hard foods, especially those with shells and sharp edges. 

Are You Excited About Your New Dentures in Delray Beach? 

At Ferber Dental Group, we’ll make sure you love your brand-new smile! Our team has the knowledge, skills, and expertise to provide you with the best possible dental care. We not only help improve your smile, but we’ll also boost your oral functionality. Contact us today to learn more.