What to Expect When Getting Dentures

Many people undergo challenges such as eating and chewing difficulties and changes in facial structure after losing their teeth. There will be noticeable sagging or indent in the cheeks due to the weakening of the jawbone.

At Alencar Family Dentistry in Chesapeake, Virginia, Dr. Oliveira Filho recommends full or partial dentures to replace lost teeth and restore the oral functions and aesthetic of your smile.

The Process of Getting Dentures

When you visit Alencar Family Dentistry to get dentures, our dentist, Dr. Oliveira Filho, will first examine your condition and determine the best course of action. A full or partial denture will be recommended based on the number and condition of the teeth remaining in the mouth. In some cases, a tooth extraction will be performed to remove weak or infected teeth before providing a set of fully functional prosthetic teeth.  

For manufacturing dentures that fit you perfectly, an impression of your teeth will be taken along with measurements of the mouth. These specifications will be sent to the dental laboratory that fabricates your dentures. We can also provide temporary dentures until the permanent ones are ready. 

Once your permanent dentures are ready, Dr. O will call you in for a fitting. He will ensure the dentures fit correctly and, if required, make the necessary changes. Dr. O will also give you instructions for proper care of the dentures and schedule any required future appointments.

When designing dentures, Dr. O takes into account your specific needs to ensure the most uncomfortable fit. However, once you start wearing the dentures, you can expect an adjustment period that won’t take more than a few days to a few weeks. 

Aftercare for Dentures

It will take up to two weeks to adjust to wearing the dentures once you start using them. During this time, you can expect minor discomfort or irritation and you should avoid eating hard or chewy foods. The dentures should be taken off before going to bed and kept in a denture solution overnight. You will also need to brush your gums and make sure no food residue is left in the dentures. 

To learn more about dentures and their benefits, visit Alencar Family Dentistry at 711 Greenbrier Pkwy Suite 101, Chesapeake, VA 23320, or call (757) 546-0301.