The Process for Getting Dentures
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Dentures
Knowing what to expect when getting dentures will help you transition smoothly. Most people will need multiple appointments before their dentures are complete, including teeth extractions, impressions, temporary denture fittings, and adjustments for permanent dentures.
Cedar Grove Dental Group offers fitting appointments in Cedar Grove, NJ and the surrounding area. Dentures can improve appearance and restore normal eating and speaking abilities. While chewing power may not be the same as with natural teeth, it is a significant improvement from missing or damaged teeth. Our staff at Cedar Grove Dental Group is caring and knowledgeable, providing personalized care for each patient. Call us at (973) 857-0567 to start your journey to a new smile.
Appointment for the preliminary denture
At Cedar Grove Dental Group, the recommendation for full extraction of all natural teeth before restoration may vary depending on the patient's health. The initial appointment includes taking images and impressions of the mouth, with or without extractions. Additionally, the first visit may also include fitting the patient with immediate dentures, which are temporary until permanent dentures are ready, based on the custom treatment plan.
“The first appointment consists of taking images and impressions of the patient’s mouth, with or without extractions.”
Dentures available for immediate use
An article in the journal Annali di Stomatologia suggests that temporary immediate dentures can enhance a patient's appearance, preserve facial muscle tone, and alleviate post-extraction pain. Patients who opt for immediate interim dentures can avoid being toothless during the healing phase while awaiting their permanent dentures.
Throughout the recovery process, the dentist will closely monitor the patient to ensure proper healing. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infections and support the healing process.
“Patients who receive immediate interim dentures do not have to go without teeth during the healing process while they wait for the creation of their permanent dentures.”
Dentures that are permanent
Permanent dentures are the last set of dentures that a patient will wear regularly. With proper care, they typically last around five to 10 years. It is important for patients to anticipate eventually needing new permanent dentures.
As individuals age, the jawbone and gum tissue may shrink, particularly after tooth extractions. Despite this shrinkage, it is not necessary to replace dentures entirely. Instead, permanent dentures can be adjusted through rebasing or relining to accommodate changes in the jawbone and gums.
“Permanent dentures can be rebased or relined to account for changes in the jawbone and gums.”
Scheduling Appointments for Denture Fittings
It is crucial to have properly fitting dentures to avoid discomfort and potential health risks. During the initial fitting appointment, the dentist will check the fit using wax ridges to ensure the dentures do not cause irritation. Before leaving with temporary or permanent dentures, the fit will be checked again to prevent any discomfort. The dentist will also check the patient's bite to ensure proper alignment of the dentures.
A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled 24 to 72 hours after the insertion of permanent dentures to check on the healing process and make any necessary adjustments. Another follow-up appointment should be scheduled about a week later to ensure the dentures continue to fit properly.
“The initial follow-up is to ensure the patient is healing well and to make preliminary adjustments to the dentures.”
Continued Maintenance for Denture Users
Maintaining oral health is important for all patients, even those who no longer have natural teeth. Patients with full or partial dentures should schedule regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups. If the dentures start to feel uncomfortable or shift, it is important to make an appointment for examination and adjustments.
According to the Journal of the American Dental Association, changes in bone structure after extractions mean that patients may need adjustments to their dentures within weeks of getting immediate dentures, and again several months later. Some patients may not need adjustments for several years, while others may need them more frequently as their jawbone and gums change. There are two primary methods for adjusting dentures to ensure comfort and oral health.
Relining of Dentures
The jaw and gums may shrink over time, causing gaps between the base of the denture and the mouth. Cedar Grove Dental Group offers denture relining services to fill these gaps and ensure a comfortable fit. In some cases, more extensive adjustments may be needed if a patient's oral structures have changed significantly.
Rebasing of Dentures
If relining is not possible, Cedar Grove Dental Group offers the option to rebase dentures. This procedure involves replacing the base material while preserving the existing prosthetic teeth. Our team will take new images and impressions to ensure a proper fit for the patient. Once the new base is completed, fittings can resume as usual.
