Complete Guide To Caring For Your New Dentures
Getting dentures can be a big step, but you’ll love your new smile! Most patients will need to take some time to learn how to eat and talk properly with their new dentures. You’ll also need to learn how to care for your dentures so that they will continue to look natural and work well for many years. Your Washington Heights dental office will walk you through the entire process of getting dentures from start to finish. Here’s some more details on what to expect after you receive your first set of full or partial dentures.
Getting Dentures at Your Local Dentist’s Office
Getting dentures will take a couple of visits to your dentist office. At your first visit, your dentist will conduct a full oral examination to ensure that your gums and soft tissue are healthy. This typically includes x-rays to ensure that the bones are also in good condition. Some patients may be recommended to undergo a simple procedure that reshapes the bone or removes excess tissue to promote a better fit. Other patients may need a tooth extraction or other procedures to ensure that their new dentures fit comfortably.
Your Upper Manhattan Heights dentist will make a mold of your gums. This impression will be sent to our laboratory so that your dentures can be custom-made to fit comfortably and naturally inside your mouth. Your dentist will discuss the size, shape, and color of the artificial teeth to ensure that you are happy with the way your dentures will look.
At your second visit, your dentist will work to determine the best length of your new teeth to ensure that there is good alignment between any of your remaining natural teeth, your upper jaw, and your lower jaw, and to make sure that there is no clicking or other problems. A loose-fitting set of dentures with a wax rim will be used at this appointment to approximate how the final dentures will fit.
Your third appointment will include testing a wax model of dentures in your mouth so that you and your dentist can see what the dentures will look like, adjust the sizing, and make any necessary final adjustments. Your fourth appointment is when you will be able to take home your custom-fit dentures.
What Should I Expect After Getting Dentures?
First 24 Hours
If you had any teeth extracted the same day that you received your dentures, it’s recommended that you wear your dentures to bed the first night. They will act as a bandage for the site and promote faster healing in your mouth. Your Washington Heights cosmetic dentist may prescribe pain relievers or antibiotics.
First 2 Weeks
Many patients develop small sore spots and additional saliva in the early weeks of their new dentures. This is common and will improve as your body becomes accustomed to the dentures. Because gum tissue contracts as it heals, you may need to return to your dentist office to get your dentures adjusted so that they fit comfortably in your mouth. Your dentist will encourage soft foods and protein shakes if you are struggling to eat enough food while your mouth adjusts to the dentures. Only wear your dentures during the day; remove them at night. Your Washington Heights dental clinic will provide you with instructions on how to clean and store your dentures when you’re not wearing them.
After the First 2 Weeks
Your gums, cheeks, and tongue will need some time to adjust to your new dentures. This includes adjusting to eating and talking. As time passes, you’ll notice that you no longer have sore spots and excess saliva. Many patients benefit from reading aloud or practicing specific words if they are having difficulty speaking normally with their dentures. The more you practice, the easier these daily tasks will become. You should be able to eat a wide range of foods and enjoy healthy, healed gums.
How Should I Care For My Dentures?
Dentures should be cared for similarly to how you would care for your natural teeth. This means brushing twice a day to remove plaque buildup and avoid bad breath. Your dentures should be submerged in water or a denture cleanser when you’re not wearing them to keep them moist and clean. You should also brush your gums and any remaining natural teeth twice a day. With good care, your new dentures will continue to look natural and serve you well for many years to come.
Schedule Your Dentures Appointment With Washington Heights’ Favorite Dentist!
If you’re ready to consider dentures, schedule your appointment with one of the dentists at Esthetix Dental Spa. As the leading cosmetic dentist in Washington Heights, we are ready to assess your oral health and make custom fit dentures just for you. Our award-winning clinic is comfortable and easy to access. Get the confidence and smile you deserve when you get in touch with Esthetix Dental Spa today!
Esthetix Dentist, NYC’s Dental Implant & Cosmetic Specialist
285 Fort Washington Ave,
New York, NY 10032
Phone: (212) 795-9675
Website: http://esthetixdentalspa.com/