Whether it’s due to aging, dental health issues, or oral trauma, the decision to opt for removable dentures marks a significant step towards reclaiming not just a full smile, but also a boost in confidence and quality of life. Throughout everything, our Ocala, FL, dentist is here to guide you through this transformative process and make sure you’re confident about .
Here’s what you need to know.
Understanding What Dentures Are
It’s likely that you may already be familiar with the basic concept of dentures but in case you’re not, they are dental appliances that are designed to replace missing teeth. Depending on what you need, dentures come in two main types: complete or full dentures for when all teeth are missing and partial dentures for when some natural teeth remain.
Made from a combination of acrylic resin and sometimes porcelain, dentures are crafted to fit comfortably over the gums, replicating the look and function of natural teeth. After a thorough examination, our dentist and team can select the right type of dentures that suits your smile best.
How Removable Dentures Can Benefit You
When you choose removable dentures, there are several notable advantages. Firstly, they significantly improve your ability to chew, allowing for a more varied diet and better nutrition. Say goodbye to only chewing on one side of your mouth or being relegated to the softest foods.
Secondly, dentures help in speech clarity, especially if the missing teeth previously affected your pronunciation. Aesthetically, they fill out the facial profile and restore a natural-looking smile, boosting confidence and self-esteem. Dentures are also a less intensive solution compared to other restorations that involve oral surgery such as dental implants, making them accessible to a wider audience.
Basic Denture Care
Proper care is essential for maintaining the hygiene and durability of your dentures. You’ll need to take them out and practice daily cleaning to remove food particles and plaque. Our dentist recommends using a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for dentures.
Avoid using regular toothpaste, especially those that are for whitening or contain abrasive ingredients as those can damage the surface of the denture. When not in use, keep your dentures moist and prevent warping by placing them in a glass of water or denture solution to soak. We also encourage you to come into our Ocala, FL, dental office for regular check-ups and teeth cleanings with our dentist so we can check the fit of your dentures and address any issues promptly.
Adjusting to Your New Dentures
takes time and patience. In terms of diet, we recommend you start with soft foods that are cut into small pieces. As you become more comfortable, you can gradually introduce more challenging foods. You can also refine your way of speaking with the dentures in by practicing words and phrases at home in the mirror. That way, you can adjust to the feel of the dentures and improve speech clarity.
Most patients who have gotten full dentures find that it takes an adjustment period of about 30 days to feel the most comfortable. Now, if you only have a partial denture that has replaced a few teeth instead of a full arch, your timeline may be quicker. Inserting and removing the appliance will still take some practice regardless of the denture type.
Additionally, it’s natural to experience soreness, excessive salivation, and tight facial muscles during the first few weeks that you start wearing dentures. By day 14, these side effects should have lessened and regular activities like eating may start to become easier. Don’t feel discouraged, however, if eating or speaking still feels awkward at this point.
Please let our dentist know if your discomfort remains constant throughout this time. We’ll ask that you come into the office so we can take a look and make adjustments as necessary to improve your comfort level.
Make an Appointment
Remember, adjusting to dentures takes time and patience, but the rewards—a radiant smile and renewed enjoyment in life’s simple pleasures—are immeasurable. Our dentist in Ocala, FL, can sit down and speak with you one-on-one if you’re interested in discussing dentures so please, call Pruitt Dentistry today at (352) 732-3985 to request an appointment.
