Loss of permanent teeth is a common consequence of tooth decay and damage. Unfortunately, when adults lose permanent teeth, there’s no natural way to replace them. The best option would be to use fabricated replacements such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures.

Dentures date back thousands of years since humans have always lost their teeth and sought out different ways to replace them. This is because an unfilled gap in your row of teeth isn’t only an aesthetic problem; it can also severely compromise the overall structure of your jaw, causing neighbouring teeth to shift and become damaged over time.

Advancements in dental technology have made tooth replacement processes much more smooth and seamless. Modern dentures are fabricated to match perfectly with neighbouring teeth. If your dentist has determined that dentures are the best solution for you, there’s no need to be anxious. Read on for a complete guide on what you can expect before you head to the dentist

What Happens When You Need Dentures

There are typically two types of dentures you can receive: partial and full dentures. Partial dentures are used to replace several teeth in a row and are anchored to the remaining natural teeth. On the other hand, full dentures will replace an entire row of teeth either at the top or at the bottom.

Getting dentures begins with a thorough examination of your jaw. Your gums, soft tissue, and any remaining natural teeth must all be in good condition to accommodate dentures. A cast is then made of your upper and lower gums, which will be used for fabrication.

Two or more denture appointments are needed to ensure a proper fit and overall alignment of your new dentures. Your dentist may provide loose-fitting dentures to measure ideal tooth length and positioning. At the end of your final appointment, you’ll be heading home with a brand new set of dentures to help you eat, speak, and live for the better.

What to Expect With Your Brand New Dentures

Getting used to brand new dentures will take some time, with your teeth, tongue, and cheeks eventually becoming comfortable enough to hold dentures in place over time.

Here are some tips for first-time wearers:

Practice Speaking

For the first few days after getting your new dentures, it’s normal to have some trouble speaking. It’s just a matter of getting used to the new structures inside your mouth, so just practise speaking out loud. If your dentures are clicking whenever you talk, inform your dentist so they can make the necessary adjustments.

Eat Soft Foods

For the first few days, your eating habits will be significantly affected. Start with soups and soft foods to slowly get used to chewing with your new dentures. Avoid hot and cold substances so your gums won’t become sore or irritated. After a short adjustment period, you should be ready to resume your regular diet.

Remove Them at Night

For a smooth adjustment process, you should wear your dentures every day. If you experience soreness, you can gargle with a warm salt and water solution. To give your gums a break, you can remove your dentures before you go to bed and soak them in a dental solution to maintain cleanliness.

Conclusion

Getting dentures is the most common method for replacing lost teeth. Thankfully, modern dentures look exactly like natural teeth, so you don’t have to be afraid of an altered appearance. Although First-time wearers will go through a challenging adjustment period as they get used to their new dentures, everything will feel normal soon enough with care and patience.

At Edmonton Smiles, we understand and value the importance of a beautiful smile. We are committed to providing the best possible care for you and your family. If you need the best cosmetic dentist in Edmonton, book an appointment with us today!

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry