Dentures are designed to replace teeth lost to trauma, decay, or disease. If teeth are to be extracted, adding dentures will likely enhance your appearance as your new teeth will be made to look great. If teeth have been missing, adding teeth will certainly make you look and feel better than you did when teeth were missing. A conversation with your dentist or prosthodontist (a dentist that specializes in replacing lost teeth) will answer any questions or concerns you may have about:
Appearance
Adding teeth where they were missing or replacing broken, stained, or damaged teeth will have an impact on your smile. But it will be a very positive one as your prosthodontist will fabricate teeth that will match remaining dentition; or if you are obtaining a complete denture, your new teeth will look natural and will be made to look as close to your original teeth as possible.
Fit
It is critically important that your dentures fit and function correctly. This may require trips back to the dentist for adjustments. Continue to return until your dentures fit and feel good. Understand there will be a period of adjustment, but if your dentures are rubbing or causing sores, this needs to be addressed.
Eating and Speaking
Give yourself an opportunity to adjust to your dentures. Learning to eat is more quickly achieved if you start out with easy to chew foods in small bites. If you are self-conscious try eating in front of a mirror by yourself initially.
Word pronunciation may feel different at first. Try singing in the shower, or engage in conversation with your spouse or trusted friend until you feel comfortable. While your new dentures may feel awkward at first, you will quickly adjust.
Denture Care
Your prosthodontist will explain how to care for your dentures. Except for a brief adjustment period, you won’t sleep with your dentures in; provide a place for care and storage for your dentures. Daily soaking and cleaning will keep them looking their best and eliminate odors. Never boil or microwave your dentures to disinfect or clean. And when handling your dentures, work over a soft surface so that if dropped they have a soft landing and don’t break.
Dentures are a fabulous tool designed to give the patient a means to replace lost teeth and boost self-esteem by improving overall appearance. Ask our team about how it might be a good fit for you!
