There’s no denying that not having a full set of teeth can affect your self-esteem and communication skills. However, you’re bound to face this problem due to old age or poor oral hygiene eventually.
It’s a good thing dentures exist. Whether you’re new to them or simply interested in learning more, this article should provide you with basic things to know.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are prosthetic appliances designed to replace missing teeth. They are made from a variety of safe materials. The denture framework is sturdy and made from metal, nylon, or acrylic. Meanwhile, the false teeth are made of porcelain or resin. The gum part is made from acrylic, as it’s easy to mold and is very durable. These can be customized to fit the measurements of whatever part they need to cover.
You can learn more about dentures by talking the oral experts like those you can find when you visit dentexdental.com.au or similar sites in your area.
What Are The Different Types Of Dentures?
Depending on your needs, your dentist may recommend getting partial or complete dentures. Here’s what each provides:
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Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are dental appliances meant to replace several missing teeth. They’re usually used to fill in gaps in the upper or lower teeth.
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Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are prosthetic devices that can replace a full set of missing teeth. If you’ve lost all your teeth due to an illness or an injury, you can put these on to regain your ability to chew or even articulate words well.
What To Expect When Getting Your First Set Of Dentures
For many people who have suffered from oral problems, getting a set of dentures is an overall positive. However, it’s not as easy as popping them in and calling it a day. You will experience a certain level of inconvenience if you have to use them. Changes have to be made to your routine, for starters. One of them, of course, will be maintenance. Keeping dentures clean is essential to your continued wellness and their longevity.
Aside from that, here are other things you should expect when getting your first dentures:
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Irritation
Getting dentures fitted for the first time will be uncomfortable initially. If the dentures don’t fit well, if it’s loose or too snug, they can rub on the gums or even cut into them. Your dentist can quickly fix this problem; adjustments may be needed to align and fit them properly.
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A Soft Diet For Two Weeks
You will have to be on a soft diet during the first two weeks of getting dentures in place. To keep up with your nutrition, you can get your protein from cottage cheese and yogurt. Soft-boiled eggs, soups, and tofu are also great ideas. You may occasionally eat cold foods like ice cream and milkshakes to soothe your gums and relieve pain.
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Some Difficulty Swallowing
You may feel anxious while swallowing for the first time with your dentures. That’s because your brain is wired to protect you from swallowing anything unusual. It may assume that the dentures will choke you.
With gradual practice, you can train your reflexes to accept your dentures as safe. Over time, your brain will get used to the presence of the dentures and feel that it’s a part of your mouth.
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Adjusting To Biting With Tools
Some people with dentures claim that one of the most challenging parts of having them for the first time is biting. You may think you’ll break your dentures if you bite something hard. But this notion stems from not being used to them. After about a month, the dentures will feel like a regular part of your mouth.
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A Temporary Lisp
Your ability to speak will be affected by having dentures. Again, this is because your body has yet to adjust to having a foreign object constantly stuck to it. The thought of getting your dentures loose while you talk may also bug you from time to time. That’s why many dentists suggest speaking slowly until you’re used to them.
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Some Salivation
Your salivary glands may work doubly hard as part of a reflex to dislodge foreign objects. Your dentist may suggest taking mints and swallowing regularly to keep it from pooling inside your mouth. This response will fade over time.
Be Prepared
Getting your first set of dentures is a relatively easy process. You may expect some bumps on the road as your body adjusts to having these prosthetics in your mouth. But as time passes, you can go back to enjoying the benefits of a complete set of teeth. Check with your dentist to see if you need dentures today.
