The Procedure for Dentures
The denture procedure typically involves a few steps. Patients should keep in mind that depending on the type of denture, such as immediate dentures, they receive, the process may differ from the traditional denture process outlined below.
Initial Consultation
The first step to determining if complete dentures are perfect for replacing missing teeth is to schedule a consultation at our Prairie Village dental office with Dr. Alex Clark. They’ll evaluate your oral health and discuss your needs and expectations.
Based on the assessment, our dentist will create a treatment plan tailored to your specific situation. Factors considered include:
- Number of missing teeth
- Condition of your oral health
- Jawbone condition
- Any potential complications
Preliminary Impressions
Once the decision is made to proceed with dentures, our dentist takes impressions of your gums, teeth, and surrounding tissues to create a mold of your mouth. This mold will be used to create a customized denture that fits securely and comfortably in your mouth.
Using the impressions and measurements, a dental laboratory creates a detailed model of your mouth. This model helps in crafting the dentures to accurately fit the unique shape of your mouth.
Wax Models
A wax model of the dentures will be created to allow you to see how the dentures will look and fit in your mouth. Any necessary adjustments can be made at this stage to ensure that the appearance of the final product meets your needs and expectations.
Final Denture Fitting
Once the wax model has been approved, the final denture will be created. The finished dentures will be fitted in your mouth, and any necessary adjustments will be made to ensure that it fits comfortably and securely.
Follow-up Appointments
After receiving your new dentures, you’ll likely have a follow-up appointment with our dentist to ensure that they’re fitting properly and that you’re comfortable with them. Dr. Alex Clark may also provide instructions and tips on how to care for and maintain your dentures to ensure their longevity. Make sure to keep up with regular dental visits, ensuring that your new dentures stay in great condition as well as your oral health.
Do You Need Tooth Extraction Before Getting Dentures?
Getting teeth extracted before getting dentures is a common process for many people who require complete dentures or partial dentures. The process of extracting teeth before denture placement is important because it allows for the proper fitting and comfort of the dentures.
If it’s determined you need a tooth extraction before getting dentures, your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic and then remove the necessary teeth. In some cases, your dentist may need to make incisions in the gum tissue to access the teeth.
After the teeth have been extracted, they’ll likely place sutures in the gum tissue to promote healing. Patients may be advised to eat soft foods and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for some time after the extraction to promote healing.
Once the gums have healed, our dentist will start the process of creating your dentures.
The Lifespan of Your Dentures
After you go through the process of getting dentures, you’ll want to ensure they last as long as possible. On average, traditional dentures last between 5 and 10 years.
To increase the longevity of your new dentures, keep the following in mind:
- Material Quality: The materials used to create a new denture set play a significant role in their durability. High-quality materials tend to last longer.
- Proper Care: Proper maintenance and cleaning of dentures are essential. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to faster deterioration. A healthy mouth will aid in the lifespan of your dentures.
- Dental Health: Over time, your mouth’s exact shape and structure may change, affecting the fit of your dentures. Regular dental visits can help address this issue.
- Denture Type: The type of dentures you have (full denture, partial denture, implant-supported denture) can impact their lifespan. Implant-supported dentures, for example, tend to be more stable and durable.
Achieve a Complete, Healthy Smile with Dentures
The process of getting dentures can be a life-changing experience for individuals who have lost their teeth. While it may take some time to adjust to wearing and caring for your new dentures, the benefits of being able to eat, speak, and smile just like with natural teeth can be well worth it. With the help of Dr. Alex Clark, you can enjoy a comfortable and personalized denture fitting process, as well as ongoing support and care to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your dentures.
Schedule a consultation at our Prairie Village dental office today by giving our dentist a call at (913) 362-4488.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, the process can take a few weeks to a few months. The timeline for receiving dentures will vary depending on several factors, including the type of dentures being made and any necessary adjustments. It involves multiple steps, including creating a preliminary model, fabricating the final dentures, and ensuring they fit correctly and comfortably.
Yes, there are several types of dentures to choose from based on your specific needs. Full dentures replace all teeth in the upper and lower jaws, while partial dentures replace only a few missing teeth and are secured by clasps that attach to neighboring teeth. Additionally, implant-supported dentures use dental implants for enhanced stability and comfort.
