Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and the surrounding soft tissues. Obtaining these prosthetics involves a precise, multi-step process designed to restore a patient’s smile and chewing function. This guide clarifies the necessary stages, from the initial evaluation to daily maintenance, providing a clear roadmap for anyone considering this form of tooth replacement.
Understanding Your Denture Options
The process begins with an assessment to determine the most appropriate type of denture, as this choice dictates the timeline and procedures. For patients needing all teeth replaced in an arch, two primary options exist: conventional or immediate dentures. Conventional dentures are placed only after remaining teeth have been removed and the gum tissues have completely healed (a process taking several months). This waiting period allows for a more stable and accurate fit, often requiring fewer adjustments.
Immediate dentures are pre-fabricated and inserted immediately following tooth extraction. This option ensures the patient does not spend time without teeth, offering an immediate aesthetic and functional solution. Since the mouth changes shape significantly during the post-extraction healing phase, immediate dentures function as a temporary solution and require more frequent adjustments or a reline as the jawbone and gums shrink.
A third option is the partial denture, used when some natural teeth remain to anchor the prosthetic appliance. Partial dentures fill the gaps created by missing teeth and prevent the remaining natural teeth from shifting.
Preliminary Steps and Oral Preparation
The process begins with a dental consultation and oral health evaluation. The dentist assesses the condition of the gums, jawbone structure, and any remaining teeth, often using X-rays or digital scans. This assessment develops a tailored treatment plan, which includes determining which teeth require extraction.
If extractions are necessary, they are scheduled to prepare the mouth for the prosthetic appliance. For conventional dentures, a lengthy healing phase follows the removal of teeth. During this time, the gum tissues and underlying jawbone remodel themselves, a natural process known as resorption. This healing must be complete before final impressions can be taken, delaying conventional denture placement.
In some cases, the dentist may need to perform minor surgical procedures to smooth any sharp bony ridges. This ensures a comfortable foundation for the denture.
The Impression and Fitting Stages
Once the oral tissues are ready, the technical process of fabricating the denture begins with taking precise impressions of the mouth. The dentist uses specialized trays and materials to capture the contours of the gums and jaw, creating a preliminary model. A second, more detailed impression is often taken with a custom-made tray to ensure the final prosthetic will have a snug and secure fit.
Next, a wax rim or plastic pattern is used for bite registration, which measures how the upper and lower jaws align. This step ensures the dentures function correctly during chewing and speaking. The dental lab uses this information to arrange the artificial teeth in a wax base for the “try-in” appointment.
The try-in phase allows the patient and dentist to evaluate the aesthetics, including the color, shape, and alignment of the teeth. They also check the fit and occlusion before the final acrylic is processed. Since changes are easily made while the teeth are still in wax, patient feedback at this stage is important.
The final stage involves the dental lab processing the wax model into the hard acrylic of the finished denture. During the final delivery appointment, the dentist places the completed denture and checks for proper fit and comfort. The dentist makes any immediate minor adjustments to eliminate pressure points and instructs the patient on proper insertion and removal techniques.
Adjusting to and Maintaining Your Dentures
The period immediately following delivery is an adjustment phase, as the tongue, facial muscles, and gums adapt to the new prosthetic. Patients commonly experience increased saliva flow, a feeling of fullness, and minor difficulty with speech, which improves with practice. Minor sore spots or irritation on the gums are also common as patients begin wearing the dentures for longer periods.
The initial adjustment to eating requires starting with soft foods cut into small pieces, gradually introducing firmer textures over several weeks. Chewing on both sides of the mouth simultaneously helps stabilize the dentures and distribute pressure evenly. If sore spots persist, return to the dentist for a professional adjustment, as attempting to alter the denture at home can cause irreparable damage.
Proper Denture Maintenance
Proper maintenance is essential for the longevity of the denture and the health of the underlying tissues. Dentures should be cleaned daily using a soft-bristled brush and a specialized denture cleaner, avoiding abrasive toothpaste that can scratch the acrylic.
Removing the dentures at night allows the gum tissues to rest and reduces the risk of fungal infections. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary because the jawbone continues to resorb slowly over time, eventually requiring the dentures to be relined or replaced to maintain a secure fit.