How to Properly Fit Dentures

Dentures are custom fit to match their owner.

If you have lost permanent teeth, one possible fix is the use of dentures, a set of false teeth that are secured in the mouth during the day, and removed at night for cleaning. Before you can receive your dentures, there are several steps you must go through with your dentist to create your dentures. The phases of the process ensure that the dentures match your gum line as comfortably as possible, making them pleasant to wear.

Instructions

1. Consult with your dentist to determine if dentures are the best option for you.

2. Determine the appropriate style of dentures for you. Partial dentures are used to replace a small section of teeth, full dentures replace all your teeth, and over dentures combine the two, covering the entire bite, but retaining some teeth to anchor the dentures.

3. Take an impression of your teeth. The dentist places a mouth piece filled with dental putty in your mouth, which is bitten down on until it solidifies, creating an impression of your teeth for a wax registration to be made.

4. Bite down on the completed wax registration at your next visit, to give an impression of your bite alignment.

5. Return when the dentist has completed your wax-testing denture. Try on the denture and check for comfortable fit. The dentist can make alterations if discomfort is found before the final denture is made.

6. Receive your final denture, and secure in your mouth with denture paste.

References

• Carnegie Dental Group: Fitting and Care of Dentures