Dentures are an effective way to replace missing teeth and restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile naturally. One of the most common questions patients ask is how long the denture process takes.
The timeline depends on many factors, such as your oral health, the type of dentures you need, and any additional treatment that may be necessary. Understanding each step of the process can help you prepare for treatment.
Your Initial Consultation
The first step is a comprehensive dental examination. Your dentist will examine your mouth in order to determine if dentures will be the best way of replacing missing teeth in your case. You may also have dental impressions and X-rays done as part of your treatment plan.
In case some of your teeth are not salvageable, they will have to be removed prior to treatment. Your dentist will explain your treatment procedure and give you a rough time frame.
Healing Before Denture Placement
Some patients require extractions before receiving dentures. If this is necessary, your mouth will need time to heal before permanent dentures are made. The amount of time taken to heal varies depending on how many teeth are to be extracted and your general health.
Immediate dentures may be inserted the day that you have your teeth extracted. These serve as a temporary measure until the gums have completely healed.
Creating Your Custom Dentures
When your mouth is prepared for the process, the dentist takes a detailed impression and measurement so that the dentures will fit and function well. The dental laboratory uses these impressions and measurements to fabricate your custom dentures.
Before your final dentures are completed, you might attend one or several fitting sessions during which time the dentist can check on the fit and the aesthetics of the dentures.
Adjusting to Your New Dentures
The delivery of the dentures does not mark the end of the process. It is completely natural for you to require some time to adjust to the presence of the dentures in your mouth. Even if speaking and eating feel somewhat strange initially, you will be able to adapt quite easily.
Follow-up visits play a key role in the process as well. Your dentist will be able to make minor adjustments if your dentures are too loose or cause areas of irritation. Adjustments will ensure your comfort and keep your dentures fitted properly as your mouth adapts to the healing process.
Schedule a Consultation
Although getting dentures takes several appointments, each step helps ensure a comfortable fit, proper function, and a natural-looking smile. At Rath Family Dental, we can assist you through the entire process from start to finish. Contact us today at (713) 551-9400 to set up an appointment.