Dentures are the first step many patients take to restore their smile after tooth loss.
If you’ve lost a few teeth or are looking to replace your entire upper or lower jaw, it’s common to feel unsure before your first appointment.
You might wonder how these dental appliances feel, what to expect during the procedure, or what kind fits your needs best. This guide answers those questions and more to help you feel prepared before sitting in the dental chair.
Key Takeaways
- Dentures are removable appliances used to replace missing teeth (hypodontia).
- Types include full, partial, immediate, and implant-retained/supported dentures.
- You may experience mild soreness or a sore throat, a temporary increase in saliva flow, and slight changes in speech.
Dentures at a Glance: Types, Procedure & Care Tips
Also known as artificial teeth, these removable appliances are used to replace missing teeth (hypodontia) and restore oral function and appearance. Dentures are made from metal, acrylic resin, or flexible materials. They are custom-made to fit your mouth and mimic the shape and colour of natural teeth and gums.
Benefits:
- Replace one or more teeth or all teeth
- Support the soft tissues in your face and jaw
- Improve chewing, speaking, and overall oral health
Dentists may recommend that you wear dentures after tooth loss caused by gum disease, injury, or decay. The making process is based on impressions of your mouth and may require future adjustments due to normal wear or changes in your underlying bone structure.
Different Types of Dentures
Full Dentures
Used when all teeth in the lower or upper jaw are missing. These are commonly made of acrylic and rest directly on the gums. An adhesive keeps them in place, especially for the lower portion. However, when it comes to cleaning, it is necessary to remove them daily for overnight soaking.
Partial Dentures
Suitable for patients with more existing teeth. These types include a metal framework for support to avert the remaining natural teeth from shifting. They are a cost-effective way to restore bite function and fill in gaps caused by tooth loss without affecting healthy teeth.
Immediate Dentures
Set right after tooth removal. These serve as a temporary solution while your gums heal and prepare for the final denture. They help maintain the shape of your face and allow you to leave the clinic with false teeth the same day. You may need adjustments as swelling reduces and your mouth reshapes.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Anchored by dental implants fixed into your jawbone. They are more stable than conventional options and reduce the risk of ill-fitting ones. They’re ideal for those with adequate underlying bone and are used in the lower jaw, where removable appliances are harder to stabilize.
Implant-Retained Dentures
Similar to the implant-supported option, this version uses fewer dental implants and snap onto attachments. Implant-retained is removable, provides improved chewing efficiency, and is easier to maintain. Patients benefit from better retention compared to traditional styles, as they experience less friction against their gum tissues.
Preparing For Your Appointment
Before your appointment, there are a few steps you should take to make the process smoother.
- Confirm your appointment and arrive as scheduled.
- Bring a list of your current medications or medical records (if any).
- Note any discomfort or sore areas in your mouth.
- Clean your teeth and mouth as much as possible.
- Prepare your questions for the dentist.
- Research your options and confirm with your dentist.
What the Procedure Entails
Now that you have prepared everything, it’s time to meet your dentist and undergo the procedure. But for a first-timer, it’s natural to be curious about what the procedure will be like. The appointment involves three main phases.
Dentist Consultation
This starts with a full oral exam to assess gum disease, remaining teeth, and overall oral health. Your dentist may conduct X-rays to evaluate the underlying bone structure. Beyond that, your dentist will:
- Explain the different types of artificial teeth
- Help set realistic expectations
- Determine whether you need complete, partial, or other options, such as dental implants or dental bridges.
The Making of Artificial Teeth
After taking the impressions, a dental lab creates a model based on your bite and alignment. You may try a wax version of your future false teeth to preview the fit and look. Of course, there may be adjustments to match your facial structure, soft tissues, and bite needs.
Denture Fitting
The initial fit is done once the permanent dentures are ready. Expect minor irritation, but this is common with new dentures. Your Calgary dentist may trim or reshape certain areas to improve comfort. In some cases, you may need to wear a temporary version if multiple visits are necessary for a full adjustment.
How Do Artificial Teeth Feel in the Mouth
New dental appliances may feel bulky or slightly loose. You might experience mild soreness or a sore throat. Saliva flow may increase temporarily, and speech might sound different. These sensations settle as your mouth adjusts.
In the First Week | Long-Term Feel | |
Speaking | Pronouncing certain words feels awkward | Muscles adapt; speech improves |
Eating | Foods may taste different; chewing takes longer | Gets easier with time; stick to soft foods first |
With time, your cheeks and tongue learn to keep your dental prosthetics in place. Practice helps, especially with reading aloud.
How to Care for Your Dentures
While cleaning daily helps prevent plaque buildup and infections, the following tips may help extend the lifespan, along with your dental health:
- Remove and rinse after eating.
- Use a denture brush with a denture cleanser soaking solution.
- Place artificial teeth on a folded towel when handling to avoid breakage.
- Soak overnight in approved soaking solutions.
- Avoid harmful chemicals like bleach or boiling water.
- Gently brush your gums with a soft-bristle brush.
Auburn Bay Dental is your ‘Best Dentist Near Me’ in Calgary
If you’re facing tooth loss or already have ill-fitting dental appliances, it’s time to speak with a trusted Calgary dentist. Now is the right time to replace not just your missing teeth but also restore your confidence, comfort, and dental health. Book a consultation with Auburn Bay Dental and get the support you need from a skilled dental team that understands what denture patients require.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get used to dentures?
It may take several weeks or even a few months for your mouth to fully adapt. During this period, you might need a few follow-up visits for adjustments to help improve the fit and comfort.
Is it fine to sleep with dentures in?
It’s better to remove before going to bed. Taking your denture out for at least eight hours each day helps your mouth recover and stay healthy. Allowing your gums to rest:
- Gives the soft tissues time to recover
- Lowers the buildup of bacteria in your mouth
- Supports long-term jawbone health
How long do dentures last?
Last between 7 and 10 years before needing replacement. Over time, natural changes in your mouth can affect the fit. To maintain comfort and function, have your denture relined every one to two years. A reline involves adding material to improve the fit of a denture against your gums. If your denture starts to feel loose or uncomfortable, it may be time for a reline or a replacement.
