The Journey Ahead

The Journey Ahead… answers to questions you most likely have.

If you’re reading this chances are you’re looking at making dentures part of your future. You most likely have a lot of questions and it’s only natural to feel a bit overwhelmed and a little afraid.

Dentures are a big step and there is going to be an adjustment period. But with advances in the denture industry and with today’s technology and preciseness, dentures are increasingly more comfortable, easier to use and most importantly, give you your life back.

Dentures can be the beginning of your journey in reclaiming your confidence and restoring a beautiful, functional smile. If you’ve spent anytime with missing, weakened or damaged teeth you know how self-conscious you’ve been and you know the impact it’s taken. Dentures are a great way to start to rebuilding your confidence and help let the true you shine through.

That said we want to equip you with the most useful information. We want you to be an advocate for yourself. We want you informed. We believe information is power and we want you to feel empowered through your entire journey.

So before you get dentures, here are a few commonly asked questions and answers that you might find useful.

What are permanent dentures?

Permanent dentures are essentially dental implants that affix to your jawbone. They aren’t removable like a common denture. Because of that they more closely mimic real teeth and there is no risk of them shifting around or falling out. There’s the added bonus of never misplacing them!

Another benefit is permanent dentures can be secured where you need them whether replacing one missing tooth or a mouthful of teeth. This solution is great for people with a strong enough jaw bone to support implants. That’s a conversation that needs to start with your dentist but together we can determine which method is best for you.

How are dentures created?

The exact method of manufacturing dentures are dependent on a number of things. Each and every person presents a unique and specific set of requirements. What we can say is the process always involves creating a full and comprehensive picture of your mouth.

We’ll take a number of different measurements, so that your dentures are designed to fit you precisely and accurately. Obviously you want the best fit seeing as you’ll be wearing them for long periods of time.

Types of dentures?

Maybe you’ve heard these terms being used and it left you saying “huh?”. We hear you.Here’s a really simple break down on 3 types of dentures most commonly talked about.

Conventional Full Dentures: these are used once all your teeth have been removed and your gums have fully healed.

Immediate Full Denture: these are used immediately after your teeth have been extracted. They must be relined after your gums heal…typically a few months.

Partial Dentures: these use a metal framework that attaches to your existing, natural teeth, providing replacements for only a couple teeth.

How long will my dentures last?

Again with advancement in technology and new ways of creating dentures, they are designed to last many years. During that time you might need to visit us for relives and adjustments as things will shift and change just from normal wear.

We also recommend at a minimum that you see your denturist at least once a year to have them check for any issues or adjustments they deem necessary.


How do I care for my dentures?

Just like your teeth, dentures are made out of porous material. So with that, it only makes sense they’ll require cleaning. Here are a couple tips to keep in mind when handling your dentures:

•       Make sure you stand over a sink with water in it when cleaning them. They can break and chip if dropped so take care to clean with that in mind.

•       It’s never a good idea to let your dentures dry out. You want them sitting in something when you aren’t wearing them. So keep them in a denture cleaner or in room temperature water. Don’t use hot water as it could compromise and warp your set.

•       It’s a good idea before you insert them, that you brush both your dentures and your gums.It preps the area and eliminates bacteria or any foreign object that’s trying to get in the way.

SOME TIPS TO PREPARE YOURSELF FOR DENTURES

Expect an Adjustment Period

Wearing dentures takes some getting used to. This is completely normal. Expect a few weeks of learning to navigate your mouth with your new set of dentures. Everyone goes through it. Don’t stress or get upset as adjustments can always be made.

Learn How to Clean and Maintain Your Dentures

cleaned with a soft-bristled toothbrush so they don’t damage. Additionally buy a non-abrasive cleanser like Polident®.

Stock Up on Soft Foods

Make sure you have soft,easy-to-chew foods in your home for the first few weeks, as your mouth adjusts.This can be the hardest transition but go slow and easy and soon you’ll be in the swing of things. Steer clear of crunchy, hard or nutty for the first while.

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Eastview Denture Clinic and Michael Seles offers a free, one-hour consultation designed to help you determine some of your options, while having all your questions and concerns answered. Mike is thoughtful,approachable and truly wants to walk you through this experience.