Do dentures only replace a full set of teeth?
Dentures can be used to replace as few as one, or as many as all of your teeth!
Full dentures replace all of your teeth in the top and/or bottom section of your mouth. Full dentures are usually made from acrylic, with acrylic or porcelain ‘teeth’.
Partial dentures replace one or more missing teeth. Partial dentures are usually made from a combination of acrylic and metal.
Will my new dentures cause me to eat or speak differently?
While getting used to your new denture, you may speak and eat a little differently.
The muscles in your cheeks, lips, floor of your mouth, and even tongue will need time to adjust to the new denture. Reading a book or newspaper out loud will help you get used to speaking with the denture in your mouth.
When you begin eating with your dentures, cut your food into small pieces and chew slowly with both sides of your mouth.
It may take several days and up to a few weeks to feel ‘normal’ talking and eating with your new dentures in place.
What are the advantages of dentures?
Dentures are the most cost-effective option to replace missing teeth. A partial denture is the most inexpensive and non-invasive option available to fill the spaces of the missing teeth. Other options to fill in gaps caused by missing teeth include bridges and implants. A full denture is a very cost-effective option to replace a full arch of missing teeth. The other option to replace a full arch of missing teeth is an implant-retained denture, which allows a denture to lock in to implants.
Will my new denture fit my mouth?
Yes! Your new denture will be made to fit your mouth.
However, when speaking and eating, you may have some sore spots.
If this occurs, don’t hesitate to let us know. We can make minor adjustments to your denture to achieve a comfortable fit.
The Denture Fitting Process
Knowing what to expect when you’re getting fitted for full or partial dentures can help put any fears or worries at ease. The development process takes a few weeks and multiple appointments with your dentist or prosthodontist (a dentist who specializes in the replacement and restoration of teeth).
Your dentist will explain these steps to you before starting the process and answer any questions you may have:
1. Impression is Created
For both full and partial dentures, your dentist will take molds of your natural teeth and gums, as well as your jaw’s measurements, so a custom-made denture can be created. Though this may feel a little uncomfortable, the payoff is having dentures that fit your mouth’s unique characteristics.
2. Tooth Removal
Unhealthy teeth are extracted. You’ll have a more comfortable recovery process if you follow all of your dentist’s instructions after the teeth (including tips on cleaning, eating, etc.) are removed.
3. Consultation
Your dentist will ask about the shape, size and shade you’d like to see for your dentures, so you can feel confident and comfortable with your new teeth for 5 to 10 years. Today’s dentures are made from hard acrylic resin, while the gum line is made from resin or soft polymer material.
4. Bite Molds
Wax blocks are used to confirm that your bite is proper and comfortable.
5. Wax Models Made
Wax models or plastic forms will be created - this is where your final dentures start to take shape.
6. Final Denture
You receive your final denture fitting, as well as information on denture care. You’ll probably need a few weeks to adjust to your new denture, which your dentist can shave down or alter to make more comfortable for you.
Your final, custom-designed dentures will visually match your mouth, and you should be able to talk and eat normally.
They’ll be indiscernible from your current teeth and can last up to 10 years if properly cared for.