What Should I Expect During My First Denture Fitting Appointment?

If you’re preparing for your first denture fitting appointment, you might have a lot of questions and perhaps a bit of anxiety about what to expect. Don’t worry; this article aims to discuss the process and prepare you for your visit. With a straightforward outlook on what’s to come, you’ll walk into your dentist’s office feeling informed and ready.

Before the Appointment

Your journey to dentures generally begins long before you sit in the dentist’s chair for your fitting. You’ll likely have had an initial consultation where your dentist assessed your oral health, discussed your options, and explained the denture process. Here’s what you might do to prepare for the actual fitting:

• Record any questions or concerns you have to discuss with your dentist.

• Eat a good meal, as you might be in the chair for a while, and some procedures may require you to wait before eating afterward.

• Ensure that you have arranged a ride home if you’ve been told you’ll receive sedation.

Finding the right dental professional is crucial when considering dentures. This is where Atglen Family Dentistry comes into the equation. With a reputation for patient-centered care and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, they’ve established themselves as a trusted practice for your denture needs.

During the Appointment

1. Initial Impressions

Once you’re comfortably seated and your appointment begins, the first step towards crafting your new smile is taking impressions. These impressions are the blueprints for your dentures, ensuring they fit the unique contours of your mouth. Your dentist will fill a tray with a soft, pliable material and place it in your mouth to set around your gums and teeth. It may feel strange, but it’s a quick and painless process.

There’s a diverse array to suit different needs and preferences. With Dentures Lancaster County, patients have access to full, partial, and even implant-supported dentures, all tailored to restore functionality and aesthetics to your smile.

2. Fitting the Denture Base

After the impressions come the trials, you may not receive your permanent dentures on the first visit, but you’ll likely try out a denture base, which may be made from wax. This base doesn’t have teeth yet; it’s used to confirm the fit and make any necessary adjustments to the final denture’s foundation.

3. Selecting Teeth for Your Dentures

Once the base fits comfortably, you’ll move on to choosing the shape and color of your new teeth. It might seem overwhelming at first, but your dentist will guide you in selecting a set that complements your natural features and personality.

4. Final Adjustments and Education

Adjustments are a normal part of the denture process. Your dentist will work meticulously, sculpting and shaping until everything feels right. With each adjustment, they’ll check how your dentures match up when you bite down and make any modifications necessary to achieve a natural, comfortable fit.

After the Appointment

When your fitting appointment is complete, it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness about your new dentures. Remember that patience is key during this transition. It will take a little while for your mouth to get used to wearing dentures, and there may be follow-up visits to fine-tune the fit.

Living with Dentures

Adapting to life with dentures might take a bit of time, and there will be a learning curve. Initially, you may experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and the need to learn how to speak and eat with your new dentures. These are all normal responses, and with time, patience, and practice, you’ll adjust to your new dental appliance.

Regular Dental Visits

It’s important to continue visiting your dentist regularly even after you’ve received your dentures. Checkups allow your dentist to ensure that your dentures are in good shape and that your mouth is healthy. Whether it’s for a simple clean or a more complex procedure, maintaining your dental health is crucial.

When it comes to dentures and dental care, location, accessibility, and convenience are important factors to consider, especially if adjustments or repairs are needed. That’s why Lancaster County dentistry is an attractive option for many. Situated in a convenient location, the practice offers ease of access to high-quality dental services right in the heart of the community.

Caring for Your New Dentures

• Cleaning Your Dentures Daily: Just like natural teeth, dentures accumulate plaque, food particles, and bacteria. Therefore, it’s crucial to clean them thoroughly every day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or denture brush along with mild soap or denture cleaner to brush your dentures gently. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh toothpaste, as they can damage the denture material.

• Storing Them Properly When Not in Use: When you’re not wearing your dentures, it’s essential to store them properly to prevent damage and maintain their shape. Store your dentures in a denture cleaning solution or plain water to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or placing them in hot water, as this can cause warping or distortion.

• Avoiding Eating Certain Hard or Sticky Foods: While dentures are designed to withstand the forces of chewing, it’s best to avoid certain hard or sticky foods that can damage or dislodge them. Examples include hard candies, nuts, popcorn kernels, and sticky candies. Instead, opt for softer foods that are easier to chew and less likely to cause damage to your dentures.

Final Thoughts

Getting dentures can significantly enhance your quality of life, not just in terms of eating and speaking but also in self-confidence. With your new smile, you’ll find renewed confidence in social settings, professional environments, and your day-to-day activities. With your trusted dentist’s guidance, the convenience of the location, and the tailored solutions for your denture needs, you’re on your way to rediscovering the joys of a full, functional smile.