Dentures have allowed countless patients to replace lost teeth with gorgeous restorations that help preserve their oral health and restore their speaking and chewing ability. These devices can be an affordable option for many patients with tooth loss, and it typically takes a month or two to receive one. Here’s a quick look at how dentures are placed, why tooth extractions might be necessary before receiving them, and how long you may have to wait after having a tooth removed before receiving your restoration.
How Are Dentures Placed?
Each set of dentures is completely customized to comfortably fit the individual patient. The process of receiving one of these restorations always begins with a consultation so a qualified dentist can evaluate the candidate’s oral health and determine the best way to replace their missing teeth. In some cases, preliminary treatments such as gum disease therapy, restorative work, or tooth extractions may be necessary to address oral infections before dentures can be placed safely and effectively.
Once the patient is approved for dentures, their dentist will take careful measurements of their bite and send this data to a trusted dental lab. There, a skilled technician will craft a customized appliance using specialized tools. When the denture is ready, the patient will try them on at their dentist’s office, receive any last-minute adjustments, and be sent on their way to enjoy their gorgeous new smile.
How Long Will I Have to Wait After Extraction Before Receiving Dentures?
If you need preliminary procedures such as fillings, gum disease therapy, or tooth extractions before receiving dentures, you will need to fully recover from the treatments before the process can continue. While this will usually take several weeks if you receive gum disease treatment or fillings, patients receiving tooth extractions will need a month or two before they can be measured for their dentures. This will allow the swelling to subside so the dentures can be fitted properly.
How Can I Stay Comfortable After Tooth Extraction?
Your dentist will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help ensure your comfort and a smooth healing process after extraction. These will probably include:
- Refraining from spitting or drinking through a straw to prevent dry socket, a miserably painful condition that can lead to infection.
- Practicing excellent oral hygiene while being especially careful when cleaning around the extraction site.
- Avoiding tobacco, alcohol, and foods that are spicy, acidic, sweet, or especially hot or cold to prevent irritation.
- Using prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as instructed.
Dentures can be a fantastic way to address the loss of several, many, or all of a person’s teeth. Consulting with your dentist can help you determine the best way to restore your smile.
About the Practice
Kringle Dentistry offers exemplary oral care to the people of Grenada. Led by Drs. Kyle and Kasey Kringle, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys friendly and courteous service in a warm and welcoming office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. To schedule your consultation for dentures, contact the office on the web or dial (662) 307-2201.