Denture Basics: Information for First-Time Wearers

At Smiles of Westmont, we understand that transitioning to dentures can be a big step. Whether you're considering dentures for the first time or looking to upgrade to a more comfortable solution, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Our Westmont IL dentist will provide a range of denture options designed to restore your oral function and enhance your smile.

Types of Dentures

A wide variety of dentures are available to suit different needs, and our helpful staff will assist you in choosing the best option. Here are the main types:

•Complete Dentures: Replace all teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw, resting on the gums covering the jawbone. These can be further stabilized with dental implants or tooth roots (overdentures).

• Partial Dentures: Replace only some missing teeth, attaching to the remaining natural teeth with clasps or mechanical components known as attachments. These can be precision or semi-precision dentures, also known as attachment partial dentures.

• Conventional Dentures: Replace all missing teeth in a jaw and rest directly on the gum tissue.

• Conventional Overdentures: Replace all missing teeth, resting on the gums and supported by attachment to one or more tooth roots.

• Implant Overdentures: Replace all missing teeth in a jaw, connected to surgically placed dental implants. These can be removable by the wearer or only by a dental practitioner.

The Denture Process

Getting dentures is a multi-step process that varies depending on your oral health and the type of denture you choose. Here's what to expect:

1. Initial Consultation: Dr. Gadde will assess your oral health and discuss the best denture options for you.

2. Preparatory Treatments:

     • Impressions/Molds: Taken to create a model of your mouth, ensuring a custom fit.

     • Extractions: Unhealthy teeth may need to be removed before dentures can be placed.

     • Implant Surgery: For those opting for implant overdentures, surgery will be performed to place the implants.

3. Healing Period: If extractions or implant surgery are required, you may need to wait several weeks for your mouth to heal before receiving your permanent dentures. During this time, a temporary or "immediate" denture may be provided to help you adjust.

4. Final Fitting and Adjustments: Once your mouth has healed, our Westmont IL dentist will fit your dentures and make any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and proper function.

Getting Used to Your Dentures

It's normal to take some time to adjust to wearing dentures. Here's what you might experience:

• Fullness in the Mouth: Initially, you may feel a sense of fullness in your mouth, face, lips, or cheeks. This will subside as you adjust.

• Speech Changes: Temporary changes in speech sounds may occur, but these are more noticeable to you than to others. Speaking slowly and enunciating clearly can help your tongue and facial muscles adapt more quickly.

• Chewing Adjustments: Chewing with dentures requires some adaptation. Start with small pieces of soft food and gradually increase firmness. Chew on both sides of your mouth using only your back teeth. A small amount of denture adhesive may also help stabilize your dentures during this period.

At Smiles of Westmont, we're committed to making your transition to dentures as smooth as possible. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to our Westmont IL dentist office. We're here to help you enjoy a confident, comfortable smile.