Over 40 million Americans wear dentures — replacement teeth for those damaged or fallen out. But as common as dentures are, many people are nervous about switching to them. The dentures available at Ridge Commons Family Dentistry are comfortable, strong, long-lasting, and look like your natural teeth. But are they difficult to get used to?
If you’re missing permanent teeth, consider dentures with Winnie Nguyen, DDS, and her Ridge Commons Family Dentistry staff to perfect your beautiful smile without discomfort.
Ridge Commons Family Dentistry offers several types of dentures, including:
Removable dentures fit over your gums and are held in place by dental adhesive or suction. They consist of removable prosthetic devices of porcelain or plastic teeth attached to an acrylic, gum-colored base.
Implant-supported dentures are permanent, anchored by metal dental implants inserted into your jawbone.
What to expect when receiving dentures depends on the type you receive. You may first need dental extraction or removal of severely decaying or damaged permanent teeth.
Dr. Nguyen fits you for removable dentures by taking impressions of your mouth, including your lower and upper jaws, and creating a model for a dental lab. After the lab manufactures your customized dentures, try them on. Dr. Nguyen ensures they fit comfortably and securely.
Receiving implant-supported dentures is a multiple-step process. Dr. Nguyen inserts rod-like dental implants into your jaw during your first appointment. You may receive temporary dentures to wear during the healing process. Once the implants fully heal, Dr. Nguyen digitally scans your mouth to create permanent dentures that bond to the implants.
Dr. Nguyen ensures the utmost comfort after receiving your new dentures. She places them in your mouth, assesses how they fit, and carefully evaluates any potential areas that may cause soreness. She makes final adjustments before sending you home.
Still, dentures might take some time to get used to. They may feel uncomfortable initially since you’re unaccustomed to wearing them. Some patients say their new dentures feel bulky or loose for the first few weeks.
This sensation is typical as the muscles in your mouth adjust to new devices. You may notice increased saliva or temporary nausea or soreness during this adjustment period. However, any discomfort often resolves within several weeks. It may take a few office visits to achieve the most desirable fit as soft tissues in your mouth gradually adjust.
So, to answer the question about how long it takes to get used to dentures? It depends, as results vary from person to person. It might take weeks, sometimes months, to become fully accustomed to your new teeth. Several in-office adjustments are needed during the first few weeks to optimize fit and comfort. After this adjustment period, you actually feel awkward not wearing your dentures!
The average lifespan of traditional dentures is 7-10 years, though implant-supported dentures may last 15-20 years or longer. Schedule to reline dentures every 1-2 years as directed by Dr. Nguyen or anytime you notice changes in how your teeth feel.
Learn more about custom dentures at Ridge Commons Family Dentistry and find out if they’re best for you by calling our McKinney, Texas, office or requesting an evaluation online today.
