Dentures are removable, custom-made appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding gum tissues, restoring function and appearance. They are classified as complete (replacing all teeth in an arch) or partial (filling gaps when some natural teeth remain). The process involves a series of appointments and a period of physical adjustment. Understanding this journey helps set realistic expectations for a successful transition.
The Process of Getting New Dentures
The process begins with an initial consultation where the dentist assesses oral health and takes detailed measurements and impressions of the mouth. These molds serve as the blueprint for creating the custom appliance. A series of try-in appointments follow, often using wax models, allowing the patient and dentist to evaluate the fit, bite alignment, and aesthetic appearance before the final prosthetic is fabricated.
A distinction exists between conventional and immediate dentures, which affects the timeline. Conventional dentures are placed only after the gums and jawbone have completely healed following tooth extraction, a process that can take six to eight weeks or longer. This delayed placement results in a more stable and accurate long-term fit because the underlying tissue has stabilized.
In contrast, immediate dentures are fabricated in advance and inserted immediately after teeth are removed, ensuring the patient never goes without teeth. Immediate dentures function as a transitional appliance, made from a pre-extraction impression that approximates the final gum line. Because the jawbone and gums change shape rapidly during the first few months of healing, immediate dentures require frequent adjustments and relines. Patients should expect to transition to a permanent conventional set after the mouth has fully healed, typically within six to twelve months.
Navigating the Initial Adjustment Period
The first few weeks after receiving new dentures require significant adaptation as the mouth tissues, tongue, and facial muscles adjust. It is normal to experience mild soreness, pressure, and irritation as the soft tissues accommodate the appliance. Any persistent rubbing or pressure points should be addressed promptly by the dentist, as small adjustments can relieve sore spots and prevent irritation.
New wearers often notice an initial increase in saliva flow, which is temporary and subsides as the mouth becomes accustomed to the prosthetic. Speaking and pronunciation also present a learning curve, often involving a slight lisp or difficulty with certain sounds. Reading aloud and repeating difficult words helps the tongue and muscles learn to articulate speech clearly with the new appliance.
Eating requires a conscious change in technique and a slow progression of food textures. Begin with soft foods cut into small pieces, chewing slowly and distributing the food evenly on both sides of the mouth to balance pressure. Gradually introducing firmer foods allows the muscles to strengthen and improves chewing efficiency. Most people feel significantly more comfortable within three to four weeks.
Essential Daily Care and Handling
Proper daily care is necessary to maintain the hygiene and structural integrity of the denture. The appliance must be cleaned at least once a day, using a soft-bristled brush designed for dentures and a non-abrasive cleanser or mild soap. Regular toothpaste should be avoided as it can scratch the acrylic material.
When handling the prosthetic, be gentle and always clean it over a folded towel or basin of water to prevent breakage if dropped. Dentures should be removed before sleeping to allow gum tissues to rest and reduce the risk of oral fungal infections. When not worn, the appliance must be stored in water or a soaking solution to prevent the acrylic from drying out and warping.
If denture adhesive is used, all residue must be thoroughly cleaned from both the prosthetic and the mouth daily. Cleaning the gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth is also important for overall oral health. A soft toothbrush can be used to gently massage the gum ridges and tongue, stimulating circulation before reinserting the cleaned denture.
Long-Term Maintenance and Relining Needs
The fit of the denture changes over the years due to alveolar ridge resorption, which is the progressive shrinking of the jawbone after teeth are lost. This occurs because the bone tissue is no longer stimulated by tooth roots. The pressure from wearing the denture also contributes to this bone loss, leading to a looser fit and potential discomfort.
This change necessitates relining, a procedure that resurfaces the internal base of the denture to match the new contours of the gum ridge. A soft reline uses a pliable material, often as a temporary solution for tender tissues. A hard reline uses a durable, rigid material similar to the original denture base. Relining is generally required every one to two years to restore stability and comfort.
While relining extends the usable life of the appliance, dentures are not permanent and typically last five to ten years before replacement is necessary. Regular dental checkups remain important, even for those with no natural teeth, so the dentist can monitor oral tissue health and the condition of the denture material. Proactive relining and timely replacement prevent the negative effects of a poor fit, such as chronic soreness and accelerated bone loss.