Getting dentures may be a necessity now that you’ve lost some teeth, but it can be stressful if you have dental anxieties.
For plenty of people, their worries centre around the unknown. When you don’t know what will happen in the denturist’s chair, your imagination fills in the details. And if you’re stressed, your mind can conjure up some pretty frightening scenarios that ultimately keep you out of the clinic.
Luckily, the reality is, that getting dentures is a safe and simple process, especially when you make your appointment here at St. Boniface Denture Clinic. We create a comfortable, reassuring atmosphere for every patient — especially the nervous ones!
We believe being informed not only helps you take control of your oral health; we also believe it can address your worries about the process. So, in the interest of transparency (and your stress levels!), here are some things you can expect before and after dentures.
Before Getting Dentures
Once it’s decided that dentures are the right option for your oral health, you’ll have to make a series of appointments to get ready for this new implant. There are many different types of dentures depending on your oral health needs.
For some people, partial dentures may be the best path to a winning smile, while others may need complete, fixed dentures to repair missing teeth. Don’t worry — you won’t be making this decision on your own. Your denturist will explain which kind suits your needs best according to the condition of your teeth and gums.
Once that’s taken care of, here’s an overview of what will happen. You’ll get a refresher when you go see your denturist.
Teeth Extractions
Before you can wear your completed dentures, your denturist and dentist may recommend some teeth be removed. In some cases, you’ll come back to the office to complete the remaining steps below. However, we offer the option of immediate dentures that are available before your extractions so that you don’t have to be without your teeth.
Impressions
Whether you’re getting lower suction dentures or implant retained dentures, they all start with a mould (traditional or intra-oral scan) of your mouth. Your denturist needs to understand the mechanics of your teeth and bite to ensure they create a tailored set of dentures that fit your mouth and match your remaining teeth. They’ll do this by taking impressions using a material that forms to your teeth quickly and painlessly. They use this mould to fabricate your partial or full dentures.
Denture Fittings
This is an opportunity to make any adjustments to improve the fit and feel of your appliance. It’s also when your denturists will share information about how to care for your dentures, including cleaning and removing them as needed.
If your denture fittings go well, you can walk out of the clinic with a brand-new smile. But that’s not all you have to look forward to after leaving our clinic. To shed some light on what you can expect once you have your dentures, keep scrolling.
Adjusting to Your New Teeth
Once you go home with your dentures, there will be an adjustment period. Your tongue, mouth, and facial muscles have to get used to the new additions. During this time, you may notice you start to produce a little more saliva than normal. This is temporary and will subside soon.
Depending on the type of denture you have, you may also need to practice talking and chewing with your new appliance. Your denturist can give you tips to help you until your dentures begin to feel as natural as your other remaining teeth.
At no point should your dentures hurt or cause irritation. If you notice any problems, call your denturists right away. While denture a
Cleaning Your New Teeth
Cleaning your dentures shouldn’t involve too many changes to your oral health routine. Just like natural teeth, dentures look their best when you brush and floss any remaining teeth at least twice a day. This habit will reduce how easily plaque and tartar build on your dentures, which will prevent unsightly stains and odours.
If you have removable dentures, you’ll want to take them out at night before bed. Soaking these pieces will help them retain their original shape and give your mouth time to rest, so you’ll want to leave them in a glass of water while you snooze.
For more in-depth cleaning instructions, talk to your denturist about the best denture care. They’ll share their favourite tips after your initial fitting, but you can call them any time you have questions.
Visiting Your Clinic
You’ll likely have to come back to the clinic a few times after your initial fitting to ensure things are running smoothly. This is a chance for your denturist to correct any problems that may be causing you discomfort.
Once your denturist confirms everything’s going well you’ll want to come back at least once a year to ensure the fit and function of your new smile.
Living Your New Life
For many people, a set of dentures gives them a new lease on life. They repair painful problems inside your mouth and give you a reason to smile again. You’ll notice a big difference in your day-to-day life as you snack on your favourite foods, smile in pictures, and laugh with friends again.
Are You Ready for Your Appointment?
Now that you know what getting dentures entails, it doesn’t seem too bad anymore, does it? So, are you ready to start your journey to better oral health? Give us a call here at St. Boniface Denture Clinic. We’re ready to help you today!