Denture Information

Replacement teeth or dentures can be of benefit to you whether you are missing all or just a few teeth. Dentures can be made to resemble your natural teeth so that there will be little change in your natural appearance. Like implants, dentures can give you more confident smiles and help with eating disorders, only after becoming accustomed to the new teeth.

There are two main types of dentures---conventional and immediate. Conventional dentures are made and inserted after the remaining teeth are extracted and the tissues have healed, which can take several months. Immediate dentures are inserted right away after the removal of remaining teeth. Your dentist will have already taken measurements of the jaw prior to this procedure. The obvious advantage is that you will not be without teeth, however, since healing may affect the fit, further visits for adjustments may be required.

Getting used to Dentures

Learning to wear your new dentures can take time. Even the best fitting dentures may feel awkward at first.

Common changes with dentures:

>Feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place.

>Minor irratation or soreness.

>Temporary increase in saliva flow.

>Changes in the way you speak.

Initially, drinking fluids and eating soft foods may be best. Cutting food into small portions is also a great idea. As you become more comfortable with the dentures, you will gradually ease back into a normal diet.

Keep in mind that one or more follow-up appointments may be necessary. Those who choose Immediate Dentures will want to keep them in until the next appointment, as the denture will act as a bandage during healing.