As their name suggests, complete dentures replace all of your teeth. They're usually necessary when all or most of your teeth are missing, as you may need some natural teeth to maintain a partial set. They're excellent for restoring your smile and can make talking and eating easier. However, to ensure yours are a success, you and your dentist will need to engage in some preparatory work. Here's what to expect.

Tooth Removal  

To make way for full dentures, your dentist will likely need to remove some teeth. They can perform this procedure using a local anaesthetic so it's comfortable. You'll need to go through a healing period, though, which may mean waiting two or three months for your dentures. During this time, it's important to follow your dentist's advice regarding oral hygiene. In doing so, you'll reduce the risk of an oral infection setting in and prevent your denture date from being delayed.

Reshaping the Bone

Reshaping your jawbone isn't always necessary. However, if you've had accidents in the past or suffered from certain conditions, your dentist may recommend it. Your dentures rely on an even and healthy bone structure to stay in place. Having the right bone structure also ensures that food particles don't slide underneath the dentures and cause infections. Reshaping your bone is a form of dental surgery, so you'll need to adhere to your dentist's pre and post-surgery requests. For example, not eating certain foods.

Managing Conditions

If you have an underlying health condition, your dentist may need to see evidence of you managing it ahead of any surgery. For example, if you have diabetes, they'll need to consistently see that your blood sugars remain within a healthy range. Or, if they've recommended changing medications, they'll need to know you've adjusted. Making sure you stay on track with non-dental health concerns is an effective way to ensure your dental surgery goes ahead.

New Toothbrushes

Once you switch to using complete dentures, you'll probably need two toothbrushes. The first will be for cleaning your dentures twice a day. As with normal teeth, cleaning twice daily is important for removing food particles and anything else that could fuel bacterial infections. You'll also need a softer brush that you'll use on your gums and tongue. Using a brush on your tongue is important for removing bacteria. You'll also use the same brush to stimulate blood flow in your gums so that they remain healthy while you wear dentures.

Speak to your dentist to learn more about complete dentures. 

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