Dentures: Frequently Asked Questions

Dentures: Frequently Asked Questions

You’ve come across the word ‘dentures’ probably from your dentist or your friends who have had them fixed. This article seeks to answer all questions you may have concerning teeth dentures.
 

What Are Dentures?

These are artificial gums and teeth that are designed and fitted inside your mouth to replace missing or extracted teeth.
 

What Are The Different Types Available?

When it comes to the available types, we will talk about two: partial and complete dentures. As the name suggests, partial dentures will be fitted when some of your natural teeth are missing, while complete dentures will be used when all of your natural teeth are missing.

Complete dentures can be immediate or conventional. Conventional dentures are designed after teeth have been removed, and the healing process of the gum tissue has started. 8-12 weeks after tooth removal, your dentist can place a conventional denture in your mouth.

Immediate dentures, on the other hand, are made before tooth removal, and as soon as the teeth have been removed, they can be fitted. It is for this reason that the wearer doesn’t have to be toothless as the gum tissue heals.

Over time, especially during the period of healing, the gums and bones shrink. This brings forward one of the disadvantages of these dentures-they need more adjustments to achieve a proper fit during the healing period. In summary, this is just a temporary solution as you wait for your conventional dentures to be brought.
 

Do I Have Alternatives?

Yes. Dental implants can serve to support cemented bridges, thus eliminating the necessity for a denture. Even though you will incur extra costs, the upside is the implants and bridges almost feel like real teeth.

Dental implants are slowly becoming a popular alternative to dentures. However, not everybody is eligible. Besides supporting bridges, dental implants can also support dentures and offer even more stability.
 

Does My Insurance Provider Cover The Procedure?

Although many insurance providers provide coverage for a percentage or the whole procedure cost, some do not. That is why it is important to consult your company before deciding to undergo it.
 

Will I Feel Discomfort In My New Dentures?

This is to be expected for some weeks. During the first few weeks, they may feel loose or odd until your cheek muscles and tongue adjust to their presence. When this happens, inserting and removing them gets comfortable.

You should also expect soreness or minor irritations and increased saliva flow at the beginning of your denture journey. The good news is that all this fades as your mouth adjusts.
 

Will I Look Different With Dentures?

There won’t be much change in your appearance because there is a close resemblance between the dentures and your teeth. On the contrary, you will have a more beautiful smile and facial appearance.
 

How Will I Eat With My New Dentures?

Some wearers may experience some discomfort for weeks, but with practice, it gets better. Your dentist will recommend starting with tiny pieces of soft foods. Use all the sides of the mouth to chew slowly.

Add other food varieties as you proceed until you can feed on your normal diet. Take precautions when consuming hard or hot foods, shells, and bones. Ensure you stay away from extremely hard or sticky foods and chewing gum. Do not forget to avoid toothpicks.
 

So I Will Need To Wear Them 24/7?

You need to follow your dentist’s instructions on this. They will direct you on the duration of wearing the dentures and the times to remove them. A few weeks after getting them fixed, your dentist may recommend you put them on at all times even when you sleep.

This may be uncomfortable, but it serves to identify areas that may require adjustments. Once this has been done, you can now start removing them before sleeping. This will give rest to your gum tissues and allow normal stimulation, including cleansing by saliva and the tongue.
 

How Do I Go About Getting Dentures?

If you are looking to get dentures near you in Chicago, IL, The first step would be seeing a dentist near you. Visit us at Ganger Family Dentistry and meet our dentists. At our denture clinic near you, we help determine other treatment options for you in case dentures don’t suit you.