WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN GETTING YOUR FIRST DENTURE
If you’re getting dentures for the first time, it’s okay to have concerns. But being fitted with dentures offers plenty of benefits, and the process isn’t as complicated as you might imagine. Knowing what to expect throughout the process can help ease any potential worries. Here’s a guide.
Fitting your denture
When your dentures are being fitted, the following steps are likely to take place:
Preparing your mouth
Your dentist may have to extract some teeth and give you temporary dentures. Your dentist will take you through the steps, explain what to expect, and can also offer advice for the period afterwards to keep you feeling comfortable and fully informed.
Making your dentures
Your dentist and the dental laboratory will model your dentures from an impression of your mouth and work with you to choose your tooth shape, size, and colour.
Your first fitting
Once your dentures are made, your dentist will have you try them on and wear them until your next visit, at which point any adjustments can be made. When your final denture is fitted by your dentist you will be given instructions on the best way to care for your denture.
When you go for a consultation to discuss the look and feel of your new denture, it might be worth taking a loved one along for support. Taking some old photographs along with you can also help you to choose a set that match your natural teeth, helping you feel like you again.
Adapting to dentures
Once your denture is fitted, it may feel strange at first, but this is normal and your mouth, tongue and facial muscles will get used to it. Everyday tasks such as eating and speaking, may take a little practice but take it slow and you’ll be back to yourself in no time. Your dentist can advise you on products – such as denture adhesives and cleansers – that will have you feeling a lot more confident while wearing your denture.
How long does it take to get dentures?
It may only take a few months from your first appointment to the day where you’ll feel fully at ease with your new dentures. You should expect to make four or five appointments with your dentist over a period of three to six weeks, but this does vary from person to person.
Having your dentures fitted offers plenty of benefits and the process isn’t as complicated as you might imagine. Once you’re fully fitted with your new denture, you can get back to making the most of every day.
