Anything new can be scary, especially when you have no idea what to expect. Dental treatments shouldn’t be that way. If you’re considering dentures, it can be an overwhelming process, and some resources can leave you with more questions than answers.
If you’d like to make the process as easy as possible, continue reading. You’ll learn the entire process from start to finish, so you can be prepared for anything.
Step 1: The Plan
Like all great ideas, it begins with a plan. You and your dentist sit down in the office and talk about your goals, your budget, the condition of your health, and other factors before anything can begin.
Once a plan has been formulated, the process can begin. Depending on the type of dentures you’re going for, and the steps that need to be taken, the process will take anywhere from six weeks to three months.
Step 2: The Preliminary Work
If your plan calls for it, you’ll need to have any natural teeth you still have extracted. This process can be daunting as it can be hard to say goodbye to your old teeth, but soon, you’ll have a brand-new set of teeth exactly as you imagined, and you’ll be free from pain or self-consciousness.
After the extraction, you’ll be fitted with temporary dentures to allow you to eat food, heal, and keep your smile intact until your new dentures are made. This healing process will make up the majority of the time in the denture process.
You may also need to be treated for gum disease if you have any. Inflamed gums reduce healing time and make wearing dentures uncomfortable.
Step 3: Impressions and the Interim
After your gums have healed from the extractions, your next dental appointment will be to take impressions. This is done to ensure a proper fit for the acrylic that will hold your new teeth. The impression is then sent off to a dental lab where the final product can be made.
In the meantime, you may be called into the dentist’s office for a test fitting as the dental lab sends prototypes of your prosthetics.
Step 4: Fitting and Finishing
After a couple of weeks, your new dentures will be finished and shipped, and you can finally try them on for the first time. If you’re satisfied with the look and feel of them, then the process is complete. Otherwise, they can be sent back for more adjustments.
Once you have your new dentures, one process ends, and another begins. Getting used to your prosthetics could take some time. Be patient with yourself, talk to experts, and practice eating, speaking, and smiling often. For any questions or concerns, your dentist will be there to help.
About the Practice
At Little Rock Family Dental Care, your comfort takes center stage. Their dedicated team ensures a pleasant experience during every visit, focusing on your well-being and dental health. They’re committed to providing high-quality treatments in a welcoming and patient-centered environment. Your smile is their priority, and they make your dental care a positive and stress-free experience. To schedule a denture consultation, call (501) 954-9900 or visit the website to explore other services.