Whether you’ve suffered severe tooth loss or your teeth are beyond repair, dentures are a great option to restore a beautiful, functional smile. They are a tried and proven solution supported by decades of success. It will take many steps to recreate your smile, but it’s time well-spent to ensure your results look and feel natural. Here’s how long you can expect the process to take.
Consultation
Your first step toward a better smile is a consultation with your dentist. They will examine your mouth and learn more about your goals to create a personalized treatment plan. It’s not uncommon to need a little prep work, like tooth extractions or gum disease therapy.
Extracting Teeth
If you require the removal of teeth, your mouth must be healed before moving on to the next step in your treatment. Every case differs, but you can expect it to take many weeks to months for your bone and tissues to heal.
First Steps in Denture Process
There’s no one-size-fits-all denture. Your dentist will carefully craft your new set of teeth to fit your mouth like a glove.
They will make an impression of the ridges in your mouth and take measurements to create your bite pattern. Your dentist may create a wax mockup of the prosthetic teeth to ensure the correct fit.
Once they have all the necessary information, it’s sent to the dental lab for fabrication.
Adjustment Appointments
You can expect your mockup to need adjustments to guarantee the proper fit. Your dentist will also consider the length and width of the prosthetic teeth to ensure they match your facial features.
Placing Dentures
After your final adjustments, you’ll receive your dentures. Your gums and jawbone will change shape over time, so you’ll need regular adjustments to maintain a snug fit.
Process for Immediate Dentures
Immediate Dentures may be recommended for patients who can’t go without any teeth for an extended time.
The process will differ because impressions and models are made while you still have teeth. After any extractions, your dentures are placed immediately.
Although you won’t have to go without any teeth while your mouth heals, immediate dentures require extra care. If they are removed too soon after extractions, it can lead to swelling and complications with healing.
Process for Implant Dentures
There are a couple of different methods for implant dentures. The traditional route involves your placement surgery to insert posts into your jawbone. Your denture is attached after your bone has healed.
Same-day options are also available, allowing you to get your denture immediately after your placement surgery.
No matter the type of denture, your dentist will explain everything, so you know exactly what to expect on the road ahead.
About Dr. Joseph E. Hickey
Dr. Hickey achieved his dental degree at the Indiana University School of Dentistry and has regularly continued his education in advanced specialties, like dental implants and cosmetic dentistry. He can treat the most complex cases of tooth loss. Request an appointment through our website or call (574) 444-2879.