Today, individuals with missing teeth and various replacement options to choose from, thanks to the advancements in cosmetic dentistry. However, the multiple options can also be overwhelming if you lack basic knowledge of what they are. For example, if you are considering dentures, you may wonder if they are your best option and what life will be once you have dentures. Fortunately, you can work closely with your dental care provider to ensure you understand what to expect with dentures. If you are considering getting Bellevue dentures, below are some questions you may ask your dentist.
What are the types of dentures?
These teeth replacement options exist in two forms, including partial and complete dentures. The type of denture your dentist recommends depends on the number of missing teeth you have. Partial dentures are ideal when you have some natural teeth remaining, while complete dentures are an option when all teeth are missing.
Are there alternatives to dentures?
Yes, dental implants are a popular alternative for people who are unwilling to wear dentures. They offer a solid foundation for artificial teeth since they fuse with your jawbone to become part of your mouth. Dental implants are also permanent, meaning you don’t have to deal with the inconvenience of removing dentures. These and other advantages make dental implants a popular tooth replacement option. However, dental implants are costly, and not everyone is a good candidate for implants. Consulting your dentist will help you establish which one is right for you, between implants and dentures.
Will dentures affect eating?
Dentures may be uncomfortable for a few weeks, so eating will require practice before getting the hang of it. But there are several things you can do to get used to your new denture. For example, start with soft foods cut into small pieces and use both sides of your mouth to chew. As you get used to the dentures, add other foods until you return to a regular diet. Avoid sticky and hard foods and caramel, corn-on-a-cob, popcorn, and candy. Also, be cautious with hot foods and sharp-edged bones and shells. You also want to avoid using toothpicks when wearing dentures.
Will dentures alter how I speak?
Most people have difficulty pronouncing certain words after getting dentures; you may slur some words. If so, practice by saying the challenging words out loud. It takes time and practice for you to become accustomed to speaking properly with dentures.
Contact your dentist if your dentures produce a clicking sound when you are talking. It is essential to know that dentures may occasionally slip when you smile, laugh or cough, but you can reposition them by gently biting down and swallowing. If your speech problems persist, consult your dentist or prosthodontist.
Should I wear dentures all day?
You will receive instructions from your dental care provider on how long to wear dentures and when to remove them. Generally, for the first several days after receiving your denture, you may need to wear it all the time, including while asleep. While this may be uncomfortable, it allows you to identify any areas on the denture that may need adjustment. Once your dentist adjusts your denture, you should remove them before bed and put them back in the mouth in the morning.
For further questions about dentures, consult your dentist at EZ Dental Clinic.
