Preparing for Dentures

Answer 1

If you have been told that you need to have dentures, it can be a scary time. Many people don’t know what to expect when they get dentures put in place. There are some common things that almost everyone will experience as they have their dentures put in.

Clear Away Old Broken Teeth

The first thing your dentist will need to do is make sure that all of your old and broken teeth are cleared away. The fact that you need dentures implies that you have several teeth that are not effective anymore. Your dentist may schedule one or two appointments to remove the old teeth and make room for the dentures that will replace them. In some cases, you will be able to keep a few of your healthier teeth as anchors for your dentures. Talk to your dentist about which teeth are worth saving and which teeth have to go.

Before the Dentures are Permanent

Once your mouth has been prepared and all of the broken teeth are gone, you will still need to visit the dentist several times as he prepares your dentures. Your mouth will need to heal from the tooth removal process, so you may spend a week or two without a full set of teeth. Once you have healed, the dentist will make a cast of your gum line so that a set of dentures can be made to fit your gums comfortably. You may be fitted with temporary dentures while you wait for your permanent dentures to be crafted.

Healing From the Procedure

When the permanent dentures are put in place your gums will be sensitive and sore for a couple of weeks. They have to heal from the trauma of having the dentures put in. There may be some spots that hurt longer than others because they receive more pressure from the dentures. Your dentist will probably suggest that you come in for a few follow up visits during the first couple of weeks that you have the new dentures. There may be some minor adjustments that will increase your comfort level and allow you to begin eating and speaking normally faster.