Sometimes your dentist will decide that your teeth can’t be saved and will need to be pulled; when many of them are removed at once, dentures may be necessary to replace them. But how long will you need to wait for your new teeth after the extraction? And how long will it take to get used to them? Here’s what you need to know about the process of getting dentures.
When Will I Need Dentures?
When you hear “dentures”, you may think of a full set of removable teeth for the upper or lower jaw that sits directly on the gums. This is called a full denture, which is used when an entire row of teeth is gone. If you still have some teeth remaining but are missing multiple in a row, partial dentures can be used instead. Either type of denture may be used after multiple tooth extractions.
How Long Will I Need to Wait to Wear My Dentures After My Teeth are Removed?
It often takes a few appointments spread over a matter of weeks for your dentures to be designed and placed in your mouth. In some cases, an immediate denture can be created on the same day as tooth extraction; otherwise, for conventional dentures, the gums are usually allowed 6 to 8 weeks to heal before placement. You may also have some of your teeth removed ahead of time before having the rest removed on the same day of denture insertion.
Before any part of the procedure, you’ll need to consult with your dentist; they’ll be able to properly determine how long you’ll need to wait before denture insertion.
How Long Will It Take to Get Used to Dentures?
For many people, it may take about a month to get used to their new set of teeth. Meals will be more challenging at first; it’s recommended that you cut your food into small bits and eat slowly while chewing with both sides of your mouth. You should also avoid sticky or hard foods during this period. You’ll also need to practice speaking; reading aloud and repeating difficult words can be good practice.
Some soreness and increased saliva are natural at first, but they’ll usually go away as time passes. Follow your dentist’s instructions regarding how long to wear your dentures during the adjustment period, and be sure to clean them and immerse them in water or a soaking solution when you take them out at night. And remember, if you have any questions or concerns about life with false teeth, ask your dentist beforehand.
About the Practice
At Harrisonburg Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, Drs. Mario DeNicola, Monisha Khanna and Douglas Wright follow a philosophy that says everyone has a right to a healthy smile that looks and feels good. They cover a wide variety of procedures under one roof, including tooth extractions and the designing and placement of dentures. To make an appointment, visit their website or call (540) 432-6616.