How to Fit Dentures Correctly

Having made the decision to get dentures, patients must confront various fears regarding the appearance, comfort and security of the dentures. An understanding of the process of fitting dentures can help alleviate some of those fears.

Instructions

Denture Fitting

• 1

  Decide what type of denture is best for you. There are two types of dentures available: immediate dentures and conventional dentures. Conventional dentures take anywhere from one month to two and require a few dental visits. Immediate dentures are placed at the time of extraction.

  Conventional dentures are less expensive and are more likely to fit snugly once they're made.

  Immediate dentures are more expensive but spare the patient the embarrassment and discomfort of living for several weeks without teeth.

• 2

  Discuss your expectations regarding the appearance of your new teeth with your prosthodontist.

  Dentures are custom designed to meet the requests of the patient, so be frank with your doctor about what color you'd like. For example, some patients opt for super white teeth while others prefer a more muted color.

  Request the repair of imperfections. Unless otherwise stated, your dentures will look very much like your real teeth. If you'd prefer to keep the imperfections that make your smile unique, tell you doctor. If not, explain what you'd like clearly.

  Note: Be sure about what you want as most prosthodontists will require you to sign a form signifying your (financial) commitment to your choices.

• 3

  Have a mold taken of your bite. The dentist will take a mold of your bite not only to match the aesthetic aspects of your teeth but also to match the alignment of the jaw.

  This mold along with the specific specifications you requested will be sent to a dental technician.

• 4

  Immediate Denture Process

  If you've chosen immediate dentures you will return to the dentist after your teeth are complete, at which point your remaining teeth will be extracted and your new dentures will be placed.

  Follow-up for adjustments. Several return appointments will be necessary, for as the gums heal and change shape, the dentures will need to be adjusted.

• 5

  Conventional Denture Process

  If you've chosen the conventional denture process your teeth will be extracted immediately after the mold of your bite is taken.

  Limit yourself to soft foods while the gums heal.

  Return to your dentist approximately one month after extraction. Your dentist will check your gums to make sure they're healing properly and you'll try out your denture to see what adjustments need to be made.