The thought of losing natural teeth fills many people with anxiety. However, modern dentures in Mesa Arizona offer a reliable way to ensure a beautiful smile and improved comfort when eating. If you’re faced with the choice of getting dentures, here are some things you should expect.

1. Preparations

Depending on your circumstances, your dentist may have to remove your remaining teeth and provide you with a set of temporary dentures to use until your permanent set is ready. This will cause some discomfort at first, but it generally goes away in a couple of weeks. During this time, it’s recommended to restrict yourself to soft foods.

After this, your dentist will take a mold of your mouth for your permanent dentures to ensure a comfortable, natural-feeling fit and get your input on the color, shape and size of the teeth. Your dentist may then advise you to wear them until your next appointment. During that time, adjustments can be made as needed.

2. Getting Used to Dentures

There will be a period of adjustment after you get your dentures. For several weeks, you may experience soreness in your mouth, altered speech, increased salivary production and slight difficulty chewing. If this goes on too long or if the discomfort is severe, call your dentist to find out if your dentures need adjustment sooner.

3. Caring for Your Dentures

Just like your natural teeth, dentures need to be cleaned regularly to keep them in optimal condition and prevent gum problems. Each day, preferably before bed, remove your dentures and use a soft-bristled toothbrush and baking soda or a non-abrasive denture cleaner to gently scrub them all over. Be sure to pay special attention to any crevices where food particles may accumulate. Next, leave them to soak overnight in a solution made for dentures and rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in. Keep in mind that dentures are sturdy but are also breakable. When they’re not in use, keep them in a place where they can’t fall to the floor or otherwise be damaged. If they break for any reason, our dentist may be able to repair them. If the damage is extensive, you may need a new set made.