5 Things to Know Before Getting Dentures

Tooth loss can be a difficult experience. Both emotionally and physically. But modern dentures offer a reliable, natural-looking way to restore your smile, your confidence, and your ability to enjoy life’s everyday pleasures. Whether you’ve just begun exploring your options or you’re ready to start the process, knowing what to expect can make all the difference.

Here are five things to know before choosing dentures so you can make a confident, informed decision about your smile.

1. There Are Different Types of Dentures Based on Your Needs

Not all dentures are the same – and that’s a good thing. Your dentist will recommend the best option based on your remaining natural teeth, jawbone health, and long-term goals.

 

At Prestige Dental, we offer:

• Complete dentures: Also called full dentures, these replace all teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. They’re ideal when tooth loss is widespread or all teeth are missing.
• Partial dentures: These are designed to replace several missing teeth while anchoring to your remaining teeth for stability.
• Immediate dentures: Placed right after tooth extractions, these allow you to leave the office with teeth the same day. They’re typically a temporary solution while your mouth heals.
• Implant-supported dentures: These combine dental implants with traditional dentures for added support and function, especially for the lower jaw.

At Prestige Dental, we’ll help you understand which type of denture makes the most sense for your smile, lifestyle, and oral health goals.

 

2. Dentures Can Improve More Than Just Your Smile

Yes, dentures restore the look of your smile, but they do much more. Missing teeth can impact the appearance of your face, leading to sagging or changes in your facial muscles over time. Dentures help support those structures, restoring a more youthful profile and natural facial balance.

 

Dentures also make it easier to:

• Eat a variety of soft foods and nutritious meals
• Speak clearly and confidently
• Prevent strain on your remaining teeth
• Protect the surrounding gum tissue and soft tissues

In other words, well-fitted false teeth don’t just replace what’s missing, they give you the ability to live life fully again.

 

3. Getting Dentures Is a Process, But a Manageable One

If you’re considering dentures for the first time, it helps to know what the journey typically looks like. At Prestige Dental, we walk with you every step of the way, from your initial consultation to the moment your final denture is placed.

 

Here’s a general overview:

1. Initial Consultation
   We evaluate your oral health, discuss your concerns, and determine the best type of denture for your needs.
2. Tooth Extraction (if needed)
   If you have tooth decay, damage, or infection, we may recommend removing one or more teeth before denture placement.
3. Impressions and Models
   Using advanced tools like iTero digital scanners, we take precise impressions of your mouth to create a stone model of your jaw. This helps the dental technician craft dentures that fit comfortably and securely.
4. Temporary or Immediate Dentures
   You may receive immediate dentures to wear during the healing process while your new dentures are being made.
5. Fitting and Adjustments
   Once your conventional dentures are ready, we ensure a proper fit. Minor adjustments are common at first and help avoid minor irritation or discomfort.

The whole process may take several weeks, but the result is worth the wait: a smile that looks natural, feels secure, and supports your overall dental health.

 

4. Proper Care Extends the Life of Your Dentures

Like natural teeth, dentures need daily care to stay clean and functional. Maintaining your dentures and oral hygiene can prevent gum disease, irritation, or damage to your soft tissues.

 

Here are a few daily care tips:

• Clean your dentures daily with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleaner
• Remove and rinse after meals to clear debris
• Never use hot water, which can warp the material
• Place them on a folded towel when cleaning to avoid breakage
• Soak them overnight in a denture cleanser or water
• Rinse thoroughly before wearing them again

We may also recommend using a denture adhesive or denture glue for added stability, especially during the adjustment period. And don’t forget to continue routine dental visits to monitor the health of your gum tissue, saliva flow, and any remaining teeth.

 

5. You’ll Adjust Over Time And We’ll Be Here to Help

Getting used to removable appliances like dentures can take time. It’s normal to experience a short period of time where speech, chewing, or fit feels unfamiliar. Your facial appearance may even look slightly different at first – but most denture wearers adjust quickly with support and guidance.

 

At Prestige Dental, we believe no one should go through this process alone. We’re here to answer your questions, adjust your fit if needed, and ensure your new dentures feel like a natural part of your life.

 

And if you’re concerned about bone support or long-term stability, we may discuss whether dental implants or a fixed bridge could be part of your future care plan.

 

Considering Dentures? Let’s Talk About Your Options

Tooth loss can be emotional—but your path forward doesn’t have to be. With the right guidance, modern dentures offer a natural-looking, highly functional solution that restores your confidence and supports your total well-being.

Schedule Your Consultation with Prestige Dental today!