If you look forward to restoring your smile but feel nervous about getting dentures for the first time, you’re not alone. Our Richland denture clinic serves many first-time patients, and we want to reduce your anxieties about replacing your teeth. Here’s what you can expect on your denture journey.
What to Expect During Your Denturist Visits
Our friendly staff will begin by discussing your denture goals and concerns. Then we'll take mouth impressions and bite casts and review color selection. If you require extractions, we'll schedule them. Following extraction, you may get a set of temporary or interim dentures to wear while you heal. In the meantime, we'll create a wax model [TP1] showcasing your permanent dentures. Once approved, we'll produce your new custom dentures in our on-site lab.
When your permanent dentures are complete, we'll custom fit them to your mouth to ensure comfort and function and send you home with care instructions. After you wear your new dentures for 24-48 hours, we'll schedule a follow-up visit to address fit and irritation issues. This process takes about 4-5 appointments over a few weeks, though this may vary depending on your prosthodontic needs.
Types of Dentures Offered by Our Denture Clinic
Your denturist may recommend these denture types based on the number of teeth you’re replacing to provide facial support, ensure oral health, and improve your smile:
Complete dentures
Removable complete dentures replace the entire upper or lower arch.
Partial dentures
Removable partial dentures replace one or more missing teeth, secured by two or more remaining natural teeth.
Implant retained dentures
Implant retained dentures attach using two or more screw-like fixtures surgically implanted into bone, providing improved stability and bite function.
What to Expect When You Wear Dentures for the First Time
Your new dentures may initially feel loose and shift when speaking or eating. This issue should slowly subside over a few weeks as your oral tissues adapt and you get used to holding them in place with your tongue and cheek muscles. While it may take you a few months to adjust to wearing dentures, you should not experience excessive discomfort. If you notice extreme irritation or develop sore spots, contact your denturist for adjustment immediately.
Common Issues for First-Time Denture Wearers
Going from natural teeth to false teeth is a big change, so expect a few bumps in the road. If you find any of these issues especially bothersome, be sure to talk to your denturist right away:
Trouble eating
Expect biting and chewing with new dentures to take a bit of time to master. Start with soft foods, working your way up to firmer textures. A snug fit ensures success. If your dentures are loose or slipping – bring them in for an adjustment.
Difficulty speaking
Learning to speak with false teeth takes time. Practice reading a book aloud; you should become comfortable within a few weeks. If your dentures click when you talk, bring them in for an adjustment.
Excess salivation
Your mouth may produce more saliva initially, but this will diminish as you get used to your new teeth.
Not removing dentures
Remove your dentures occasionally for cleaning and if you have sores to prevent infection. Remember, even if you've replaced all your natural teeth, you still need to schedule a regular dentist visit for oral hygiene.
Ensure a Positive Experience at Our Trusted Denture Clinic
Apex Denture Studio of Richland provides high-quality, affordable dentures for Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, Benton City, Prosser, Grandview, Finley, Walla Walla, and Tri-Cities residents. Improve your smile with help from our friendly, professional staff. We’re here to help reduce your anxieties about getting dentures for the first time. Contact us at 509-204-8305 to schedule an appointment today.