December 1, 2023
Many people eventually face the prospect of having all their natural teeth removed due to severe gum disease, advanced tooth decay, or other oral health issues. If you are considering getting all of your teeth extractedand wearing full dentures, you likely have a lot of questions. Here’s an overview of what you need to know about removing all your teeth and getting fitted for removable dentures.
Is it possible to remove all of my teeth and replace them with dentures?
Yes, it is certainly possible to have all of your teeth removed surgically and then get custom-fitted dentures to replace them. This process involves an oral surgeon extracting all of your remaining teeth, allowing your gums to fully heal. Then, the best dentists for dentures in Encinitastake impressions of your mouth to create dentures specifically molded for you. The dentures can be full dentures, replacing all upper and lower teeth, or partial dentures if only some teeth are removed.
What are the benefits of getting all teeth removed and using dentures?
There are several potential advantages to extracting all teeth and using dentures near you instead:
- Replaces all missing teeth for improved chewing and speech
- Restores your smile and appearance
- Allows you to avoid the pain and expense of further dental treatments
- Eliminates dental infections and oral health issues associated with keeping deteriorating teeth
- Provides a long-term solution – with proper care, dentures can last 5-10 years or longer
- More affordable than dental implants to replace all teeth
Are there any risks or complications associated with removing all teeth for dentures?
As with any major dental procedure, there are some risks to having all teeth removed:
- Potential damage to nerves in the lower jaw that control lip and chin movement
- Development of sores and irritation in the gums and oral tissues
- Shrinking of the jawbone over time after extractions
- Difficulty eating and speaking normally as you adjust to dentures
- Denture slippage and discomfort until you adapt to them
- Need for denture adjustments, reline, or replacement over time
What is the process of getting all teeth extracted and getting dentures fitted?
Here are the general steps involved in the complete tooth removal and denture fabrication process:
- Oral exam, x-rays, and consultation to determine if you are a candidate
- Full mouth tooth extraction surgery under anesthesia performed by an oral surgeon
- Allowing 4-6 weeks for complete healing of gums after extractions
- Appointments with the dentist to take impressions and bite registrations of the edentulous mouth
- Try-in appointment to ensure proper fit and comfort before finalizing dentures
- Delivery of the final custom dentures, instructions on use and care
- Follow-up appointments to check fit and make any adjustments needed
How long does it take to adjust to dentures after removing all teeth?
It takes most patients 2-3 months to fully adapt to wearing full denturesall day, every day, after having all their teeth removed. At first, dentures may feel awkward, and you’ll need to practice speaking, chewing, and other functions. You may experience excess saliva, slight gagging, or sore spots as you adjust. Be patient and work closely with your dentist during this transition period.
How to take care of dentures after getting all teeth removed
Caring properly for dentures is crucial for keeping them functioning and comfortable:
- Clean dentures daily by gently brushing and rinsing using denture cleaning products. It prevents the buildup of food and bacteria.
- Soak dentures in a cleanser solution for about 20 minutes per day or as directed. It removes stains and disinfects them.
- Rinse your mouth after each meal before reinserting dentures. It keeps gum tissues healthier.
- Handle dentures carefully to avoid dropping or damage. Remove dentures at night.
- See your dentist regularly to check fit and condition. Have them professionally cleaned every six months.
- Use denture adhesives sparingly to help stabilize ill-fitting dentures until they can be adjusted.
With proper care and adjustments over time by your dentist near youcan comfortably wear dentures after the transition period. Visiting an experienced prosthodontist like the dentists atSinclair Smiles in Encinitas, CA,can help ensure optimal denture fit and function after extractions.
