What to Expect When Getting Dentures

Dentures are artificial teeth used for replacing sets of missing teeth. There are two main types of dentures that you can choose depending on your needs: full or partial dentures. 

At Alencar Family Dentistry, Dr. Jayme A. Oliveira Filho will work with you to determine if dentures are the right solution and recommend the best course of action. 

What Are the Steps to Getting Dentures?

Dentures are custom-made and, with advancements in dental technology, they now look and feel more natural than ever before.

Here is what the process of getting dentures entails: 

• Examination

As a first step, Dr. O will examine the health of your remaining teeth and advise how to proceed. During this examination, he will check for any signs of tooth decay, infection, or previous dental work that can affect the process. 

For patients with only a few missing teeth, a partial denture is the best solution. When all the teeth need to be replaced, a full denture is required. 

• Extraction and Healing

Tooth extraction is required when there are remaining decayed and damaged teeth. After the extraction, the gums will need time to heal before moving forward to ensure that your dentures fit correctly. This may take about 6-8 weeks. 

• Impressions

Once your gums have healed, Dr. O can take an impression of your mouth so that the denture can be custom-made to suit you. A semi-solid material is placed in your mouth and fit over your dental arches. Once set, it leaves an imprint on your oral cavity.

• Fabrication of Dentures

The impressions are sent to a dental lab for the dentures to be custom-made. 

• Denture Fitting 

Once the dentures are ready, a fitting will ensure they are comfortable. Dr. O will make sure the patient can use the dentures without pain or issues and make any necessary adjustments.

How to Care For Your Dentures?

Dentures need proper care to last as long as possible. They should be cleaned with a special brush and liquid solution that does not cause damage to the denture’s materials. 

The patient will also have to soak the removable dentures in solution or water during the night. 

At Alencar Family Dentistry, Dr. Jayme A. Oliveira Filho can help you get comfortable dentures that will restore your oral functionality. Call us today at (757) 546-0301 or request an appointment online and we will develop a customized plan to meet your denture requirements.