What to Expect During Your Calgary Denture Fitting

If you’ve made the decision to get dentures, you’re taking an important step toward restoring your smile, improving your ability to eat and speak, and boosting your confidence. For many people, the idea of getting dentures can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what to expect. At Health Today, we understand that undergoing a denture fitting is a big change, and we’re here to help you feel comfortable and prepared for the process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what you can expect during your denture fitting, so you can feel confident and at ease throughout the experience.

Dentures are a common and effective solution for individuals who have lost some or all of their teeth. Whether you're getting partial dentures or full dentures, the fitting process is designed to ensure a comfortable fit and natural look. Knowing what to expect during your denture fitting can help ease any anxieties and ensure you’re ready for each step. Here’s a detailed guide to what you can expect during the denture fitting process in Calgary.

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment

Your denture journey will begin with an initial consultation. This is your opportunity to discuss your dental history, current oral health, and any concerns you may have about dentures. Your dentist or denturist will perform a thorough examination of your mouth, which may include X-rays or digital scans to get a clear picture of your gum and bone structure.

What Happens During the Consultation:

• Examination: Your dentist will assess your gums and any remaining teeth to determine the best denture option for you.
• Discussion: You’ll discuss your lifestyle, preferences, and the type of dentures that will suit your needs. This may include options like full, partial, or implant-supported dentures.
• Treatment Plan: Your dentist will outline the steps involved in creating and fitting your dentures, as well as the timeline for completion.

This consultation is a great time to ask any questions you may have about the process, costs, and care instructions for your dentures.

2. Taking Impressions of Your Mouth

Once your dentist has assessed your oral health and decided on the best course of action, the next step is to take impressions of your mouth. These impressions are essential for creating custom dentures that fit snugly and comfortably.

What to Expect:

• Impressions: A soft material will be used to create molds of your upper and lower gums. This process is painless, but you may feel slight pressure as the material sets.
• Measurements: Your dentist may also take measurements of your bite to ensure that your new dentures will allow for proper chewing and speaking.
• Customization: Based on these impressions and measurements, your dentist will design dentures that are tailored to your mouth, providing a natural and secure fit.

The impression process is quick, usually taking only a few minutes, and it’s an important part of ensuring that your dentures feel comfortable and look natural.

3. Trying on a Denture Prototype

Before your final dentures are made, you may be fitted with a prototype. This is a temporary set of dentures that allows your dentist to make any necessary adjustments before creating the final product. The prototype stage is crucial for ensuring a perfect fit.

What to Expect:

• Fitting the Prototype: Your dentist will place the prototype dentures in your mouth and check for fit, comfort, and appearance.
• Adjustments: If the prototype feels too tight, loose, or uncomfortable, your dentist will make adjustments to ensure that your final dentures fit properly.
• Feedback: This is your opportunity to provide feedback. Let your dentist know how the dentures feel when talking, smiling, and chewing. Your input is essential in creating dentures that meet your expectations.

The prototype stage ensures that your final dentures are comfortable and functional, minimizing the need for adjustments after they’re made.

4. Final Denture Fitting

Once your custom dentures have been crafted, you’ll return for the final fitting. This is when you’ll receive your permanent dentures, and your dentist will ensure everything fits correctly.

What Happens During the Final Fitting:

• Placing the Dentures: Your dentist will place the final dentures in your mouth, checking for comfort, fit, and appearance.
• Fine-Tuning: If any minor adjustments are needed, your dentist can make them during this appointment. The goal is to ensure that your dentures feel as natural as possible.
• Instructions: You’ll receive detailed instructions on how to care for your dentures, including cleaning and maintenance tips. Your dentist will also advise you on what to expect during the first few weeks of wearing your new dentures.

It’s normal for dentures to feel a little strange at first, but with time, they will begin to feel like a natural part of your mouth.

5. Follow-Up Appointments

After receiving your final dentures, follow-up appointments are important to ensure that your dentures continue to fit well as your mouth adjusts. These appointments are an opportunity for your dentist to check for any issues and make further adjustments if needed.

What to Expect During Follow-Ups:

• Fit Check: Your dentist will assess how well your dentures are fitting and make adjustments as necessary.
• Oral Health Monitoring: Your dentist will also monitor your overall oral health, checking for any signs of irritation or gum changes.
• Continued Support: If you experience any discomfort or issues after wearing your dentures for a while, follow-up appointments allow your dentist to address these concerns promptly.

Follow-up appointments are an important part of maintaining the comfort and functionality of your dentures over time.

Getting dentures is a significant step toward restoring your oral health and improving your quality of life. Knowing what to expect during the fitting process can help you feel more at ease and confident in your decision. From the initial consultation to follow-up care, the team at Health Today is here to guide you every step of the way. With personalized attention and expert care, we’ll help ensure that your dentures fit comfortably and function well, giving you a reason to smile every day. Call us to learn more about the denture solutions we can offer.