What to Expect When Getting Dentures

12 May What to Expect When Getting Dentures

If you’re missing some teeth, removable dentures can be a great way to restore your confidence. Partial dentures can replace one or several teeth, while full dentures replace a full arch of missing teeth. Both types of dentures look natural and enable you to speak and smile normally. 

Let’s dive deeper—here’s everything you should know about getting dentures, including what to expect during the process, how long it takes to get used to wearing dentures, and what goes into cleaning and taking care of your dentures. 

Understanding the Process of Getting Dentures

At Prescott Dentistry, getting dentures starts with an examination to evaluate the state of your dental health. We’ll check for infections and tooth decay, and determine whether any teeth should be extracted before you get your dentures. 

Next, we’ll take an impression of your teeth and gums to create custom-fitted dentures that feel comfortable in your mouth. Once your dentures are ready, you’ll try them on so we can make sure they fit comfortably and that there aren’t any bite issues. After we make a few final adjustments, you can show off your beautiful new smile! 

Adapting to Your New Dentures

It usually takes about 30 days to get used to your new dentures, but there are a few things about the adjustment period that are good to know ahead of time. 

For instance, it’s normal to feel some tenderness or discomfort for a few days while your mouth begins to adjust. But if you develop sore spots that don’t go away, it could mean that your dentures don’t fit properly. If that’s the case, contact us right away so we can adjust them to fit properly. 

For the first several days after getting dentures, you can prevent pain by sticking to soft foods like bananas, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs. You’ll also need to chew slowly and cut food into small pieces until you get used to eating with your new dentures. It’s important to always chew evenly, using both sides of your mouth, to prevent your dentures from dislodging. 

It’s normal to experience increased saliva production when you get new dentures, but levels should return to normal after you get used to wearing them.

You’ll also need to be prepared to practice speaking. When you first get new dentures, they might cause a lisp or clicking sound, but it will go away the more you practice. Reading out loud is a good way to help you master speaking with your new dentures. 

How to Keep Your Dentures Clean

As long as you take good care of your dentures, you can expect them to last at least 10 years. But failing to clean and care for your dentures will decrease their lifespan. Dirty dentures can also increase your risk of periodontal disease and other infections. 

Follow these steps to keep your dentures clean and your mouth healthy:

1. Fill a sink or bowl with water—this will protect your dentures if you accidentally drop them.
2. Brush your dentures twice a day (over the sink or bowl) with a brush specifically designed for cleaning them.
3. Soak your dentures overnight in water or a denture cleaning solution to help them retain their shape. Never use hot or boiling water!

Removable Full and Partial Dentures in Prescott, Arizona

At Prescott Dentistry, we use non-allergenic, biocompatible materials to create dentures that look and feel natural. We’ll design the dentures to blend in with your gums and remaining teeth for a beautiful, seamless smile. If you’re interested in trying removable dentures, contact our office at 928-445-1660 today to schedule a consultation.