Your dentist should have a D.D.S. or D.M.D. Unless your case is complex, your general dentist will care for you. If you need extra help, he/she may refer you to a prosthodontist--a specialist with postdoctoral training.
Your first step will be your dentist's examination. He/she will assess your teeth, gums, bone condition, bite, and jaw joints. The two of you will discuss your medical and dental history.
Bring a photograph of yourself with your real teeth to help your dentist approximate your natural look.
It usually takes about one month and five appointments to become a denture-wearer.
The visits include:
- Exam and diagnosis. Medical care may be necessary before you're ready for the next step. You may need teeth extracted. Surgery might be necessary to improve the bony ridges that will stabilize your dentures. Other oral surgery could be prescribed to optimize success with your new dentures.
- A wax bite impression gives the dentist your precise measurements.
- A try-on session fine tunes color, shape, and fit. Are you pleased with the look and feel of your new teeth? Be frank with your dentist. You should be able to laugh, talk, and smile without pain or slipping of dentures.
- Placing of the final dentures. You'll be instructed about denture care and scheduled for a follow-up appointment.
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