What Are the Steps Involved in Getting Dentures?
Dentures are essential for restoring a complete smile and improving dental function when teeth are missing. They play a key role in enhancing your quality of life by making eating and speaking easier while also boosting your confidence. This blog will guide you through the steps involved in getting dentures, from the initial consultation to post-fitting care. By understanding each stage, you can ensure a smooth process and achieve a comfortable, well-fitting set of dentures. Discover how proper planning and care can make a significant difference in your smile transformation.
Dentures are removable dental devices created to replace missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. There are two main types: complete dentures, which replace all the teeth in a dental arch, and partial dentures, which fill in the gaps left by missing teeth. Constructed from materials such as acrylic, metal, and porcelain, dentures restore both the function and appearance of your smile, aiding in chewing, speaking, and preserving facial structure. They are custom-fitted for comfort and require appropriate care and maintenance.
Steps Involved in Getting Dentures
1. Initial Consultation and Evaluation
The journey to getting dentures starts with an initial consultation. During this visit, you and your dentist in New Westminster will discuss your dental history and any concerns you have about your oral health. This conversation helps your dentist understand your needs and expectations.
Next, the dentist performs a thorough oral examination. This assessment includes checking the condition of your gums and remaining teeth, if any. X-rays and other diagnostic tests are also conducted. These tests provide a complete picture of your dental health, helping the dentist plan the best course of action.
2. Creating a Treatment Plan
After the initial evaluation, your dentist will develop a tailored treatment plan that outlines the steps needed to achieve your desired outcome. The dentist will discuss your goals and expectations, ensuring that the plan aligns with your needs.
The treatment plan will include a detailed timeline. This timeline helps you understand how long each step will take and what to expect at each stage. A clear plan ensures you are well-informed and comfortable throughout the process.
3. Taking Dental Impressions
Taking accurate dental impressions is a crucial step in creating dentures. The impressions capture the exact shape and size of your gums and any remaining teeth. This guarantees that the dentures will fit properly.
The dentist uses special materials to make impressions. You will bite into a tray filled with this material, which then hardens to create a mold. Accurate impressions are essential for the proper fit and comfort of your dentures.
At Asante Dental Centre in New Westminster, BC, we also use an intraoral scanner to take impressions in some cases.
4. Selecting Denture Type and Material
There are different types of dentures available, each suited to different needs. The main types include full dentures, partial dentures, and implant-supported dentures. Full dentures replace all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw. Partial dentures fill in the gaps left by missing teeth. Implant-supported dentures are anchored to dental implants, offering extra stability.
Dentures can be crafted from various materials, including acrylic, metal, and porcelain. The choice of material affects the look, feel, and durability of the dentures. Your dentist will help you select the best type and material based on your needs and preferences.
5. Creating a Wax Model for Try-In
Before making the final set, a wax model of your dentures is created. This model helps visualize how the final dentures will look and fit. The try-in phase is essential for ensuring the dentures are comfortable and functional.
6. Fitting and Adjusting the Wax Model
During the try-in phase, you will try on the wax model of your dentures. This step is crucial for checking the fit and appearance. The dentist will make any necessary adjustments to the model to ensure comfort and satisfaction. This phase helps prevent issues with the final dentures.
7. Final Denture Fabrication
Once the wax model is approved, the final dentures are fabricated. The process involves transferring the wax model’s details to durable materials like acrylic or porcelain. Skilled technicians use precise techniques to create dentures that match your gums and remaining teeth.
Quality checks are conducted to verify that the dentures adhere to all specifications. Final adjustments, such as polishing, are made to achieve a natural appearance.
8. Fitting and Adjusting the Final Dentures
When the final dentures are ready, you will return to the dental clinic for the initial fitting. The dentist will check the fit and make any needed adjustments to ensure comfort. It may take a few visits to achieve the perfect fit.
The dentist will also provide instructions on how to wear and care for your new dentures. Proper care is crucial for maintaining both the appearance and function of your dentures in New Westminster.
9. Post-Fitting Care and Instructions
After fitting, it is important to follow the care instructions provided by the dentist near you. These instructions help you maintain the condition of your dentures and avoid common issues.
Some tips for cleaning and maintaining dentures include:
- Brush dentures daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Use denture cleaner instead of regular toothpaste
- Soak dentures overnight in a denture-cleaning solution
- Rinse dentures thoroughly before wearing them
Addressing any concerns or discomfort with your dentist can help you find solutions to common problems, such as sore spots or loose-fitting dentures.
10. Regular Follow-Up Appointments for Adjustments
Regular follow-up appointments are essential for maintaining the fit and function of your dentures. These visits allow the dentist in V3M 5T5 to monitor your oral health and adjust your dentures.
Over time, your gums and bones may change, affecting the fit of your dentures. Regular adjustments help ensure continued comfort and functionality. Consistent check-ups also help catch any potential issues early, preventing more severe problems.
Conclusion
Getting dentures involves several important steps, each contributing to a comfortable and functional result. From the initial consultation to the final fitting, following the process closely ensures your dentures will fit well and enhance your quality of life. Proper care and regular follow-up appointments are crucial for maintaining comfort and function. By understanding and completing each step, you can enjoy the benefits of a restored smile. Schedule a consultation at Asante Dental Centre, a dental clinic near you, today to explore your denture options and get started on your journey to a healthier, more confident you.