If you have lost teeth, no doubt you have investigated the options available to restore your ability to chew, speak clearly, and smile without hesitation. Your dentist can provide all the information you need to make the best decision for your situation. For many patients, that is with custom dentures.
A Little Denture History
Dentures have been used to replace missing teeth for as long as dentistry has been recorded. And you would be in good company … George Washington, Sir Winston Churchill, and Clark Gable all wore dentures.
Improvements have been made so today’s dentures look natural and are made to fit and function as close to your natural teeth as this type of teeth replacement can. So whether you are missing a few teeth or all of them, there is a denture that is suitable for you.
The Denture Process
Plan on several weeks from start to finish; several visits with your dentist are required. The process begins with impressions of your jaw. Measurements will be taken and from these, wax models will be made. These wax models will be tried in along the way; any adjustments needed are made to the wax model, and it is from this that your final denture will be cast.
As with anything new, you can expect to make a few adjustments as you get used to your new teeth. Even though your denture has been custom fitted for your mouth, it may feel like it’s loose or ill fitting at first. Give it a little time … the muscles in your tongue and cheeks need some time to adjust to it. Be patient as you may suffer from minor irritations. And saliva production may increase. All of these things are normal and should diminish over time.
Your dentist may advise you to wear your denture 24/7 for the first few days. This will help to identify areas where adjustments are needed. Eventually you will be removing your denture before bed; this little break is needed for your gum tissue to rest. In the morning, you should brush your teeth and gums before inserting your denture. Your denture should have been stored overnight in a soak designed to clean and keep it fresh … just rinse and put in place.
To learn more about your tooth replacement options, contact Crosspointe Dental & Orthodontics today and schedule a consultation.
