If you are missing some or all of your teeth, you should consider visiting a dentist near you to talk about getting dentures in Grand Rapids. Full dentures can help you regain your healthy smile and confidence, and can make eating and speaking much easier. Here is a look at the denture process that may be used by a dentist near you.
Initial Appointment and Evaluation
Before you can get dentures, you will need to meet with your dentist for an evaluation. Your dentist will assess the health of your remaining teeth, your gums, jawbone, and your overall health. He should have an open and honest discussion with you about whether full dentures, partial dentures, or dental implants are the healthiest option for tooth replacement. If you are missing most or all of your teeth, it is very likely that your dentist will suggest that you get partial dentures or full dentures.
Dental Images and Measurements
Either in the same appointment or at another appointment, your dentist will begin taking dental images and measurements of your mouth. If your dentist has an on-site dental laboratory, he can utilize advanced, 3D dental imaging technology to take precise images of your mouth and jaw. These images will help him determine the exact size, shape, and structure of your dentures. Dental images and measurements are crucial to ensure that your partial dentures or full dentures fit perfectly and comfortably. Perfectly fitted dentures will eliminate the adjustment period that some patients go through when having new dentures placed.
Creating and Placing Dentures
After images and measurements are taken, your dentures will be carefully crafted in a dental laboratory. This may occur on-site at your dentist’s office, or your information may be sent away to an outside lab. If there is no on-site lab, your dentist may give you temporary dentures to wear until yours are ready. Once your dentures are ready, your dentist will place them in your mouth and adjust them as necessary. He will also give you instructions as to the care and cleaning of your new dentures.