Getting Dentures and What to Do After

Dentures come in different forms, shapes, and sizes. In this article, we are going to discover more about different types of dentures, when to get them, and what to expect once you do.

While everybody likes to sport a broad, pearly white smile, not all of us can retain it for one reason or another. Some may have the luxury of resorting to minor dental procedures, but getting dentures is an undeniable reality for many.

If you are on the fence and looking to find out when to get dentures, continue reading.

Is Getting Dentures the Right Choice for You?

Whether you are suffering from dental trauma, tooth loss, or happen to be getting on in years, it would be prudent to consider teeth replacement solutions. In that event, dentures could be just the option you are looking for.

Generally speaking, dentures are artificial gums and teeth. They are affordable, practical, and easy to maintain. In addition, they have been around for centuries and are a popular teeth replacement option in cosmetic dentistry.

With that said, you may be wondering if you are a good candidate for getting dentures. In practice, a person considering dentures should have sufficient jawbone structure and healthy gum tissue. After all, dentures require as much natural support as they can get.

However, if you are unsure whether dentures are the right choice for you, the following information can help you make up your mind.

What Are the Different Types of Dentures?

Another detail to take into consideration when opting for dentures is their type. That is to say, some denture types may be more suitable for you than others. 

Dentures are commonly divided into two categories — traditional and implant-retained. The main difference between the two is that the traditional dentures can be easily removed at any point in time, whereas implant-retained dentures require you to visit a dentist to have them removed.

Complete dentures (traditional)

Complete dentures replace all of your teeth. They can be easily removed because they are attached to the bottom or the top gum line. An oral adhesive or suction keeps them in place.

Partial dentures (traditional)

Partial dentures are fitted between your existing teeth. While your natural teeth structure supports their positioning, they are not permanent and can be easily removed. These dentures are used when more than a single tooth is missing and the surrounding teeth are unable to support dental bridges.

Implant-retained dentures

Implant-retained dentures are permanently fixed to your jawbone and serve as a replacement for any number of teeth. The metal post of the implant remains attached to the jawbone, while the crown is shaped to imitate the look of a natural tooth. They are commonly affixed to the lower jaw since the upper jaw is prone to having fitting issues with implant-retained dentures.

Other permanent and temporary dentures

In addition, there are overdentures and immediate dentures as well. Both immediate dentures and overdentures offer an alternative take on traditional dentures. While overdentures are a permanent teeth replacement option, immediate dentures usually take on the role of a six-month-long stepping stone to permanent dentures.

What You Should Do After Getting Your Dentures

Regardless of the desired denture type, there are some universal rules of conduct that will help speed up the healing process after getting your first dentures.

1. Follow the aftercare instructions

Depending on your denture type, your prosthodontist or dentist will let you know about the exact aftercare instructions. You can expect to wear your new dentures at all times during the first 24 hours. This means that you will have to take them to bed as well.

2. Refrain from eating hard foods

Take care to consume only soft foods after getting your dentures. These may include cheese, mashed potatoes, and macaroni, to name a few.

3. Expect sore spots to develop

Your gums will need some time to adjust to the new foreign object in your mouth. You may notice an increase in sore spots over the first couple of days. Nonetheless, you can rest assured that the sore spots will eventually subside. Keep in mind that you can use some antibiotics and pain relievers, if needed.

4. Exercise your facial muscles

You will get used to the dentures faster by exercising your facial muscles. Additionally, you can practice speaking out loud to avoid developing any unwanted speech issues

What to Remember about Your Dentures

After the initial adjustment period, you will notice that you are becoming more accustomed to your dentures by the hour. Still, if you want your dentures to last long and remain resilient, they will need regular maintenance.

Clean your dentures regularly

Do not forget that you need to brush your gums and dentures daily. But keep in mind that regular toothbrushes can damage your dentures. For this reason, you should be ready to invest in a special toothbrush.

Help your dentures avoid discoloration

Just like natural teeth, you can change the color of your dentures inadvertently. If you want to keep your dentures healthy-looking, then avoiding beverages and foods with strong or artificial colorants is the first step to their preservation.

Give your dentures a break

This is not just about your dentures but your mouth flora, and overall health as well. Remove your dentures whenever you go to bed or do not plan on using them. This way, you will prevent your gums from receding and minimize the risk of developing infections over time.

Repair and replace your dentures when necessary

Dentures’ life expectancy is up to ten years. When the time comes, be ready to have them professionally repaired or replaced. Do not tinker with your dentures at home because you can cause further damage without the proper expertise.

Be Mindful of Your Oral Health by Saying “YES” to Dentures

All things considered, if you require dentures, you will ultimately benefit from getting them — there are no two ways about it. Since knowledge is half the battle, you should remember that dentures are important for your oral health.

In the long run, we recommend that you approach the idea of getting dentures with an open mind. To that end, doing the relevant research and knowing what to expect when you get your dentures will pay dividends.