From Consultation to Comfort: The Step-by-Step Process of Getting Dentures in Virginia Beach
Highlights:
- What to expect during your first consultation for dentures
- How impressions and molds are created for the perfect fit
- The different types of dentures available today
- The fitting and adjustment process for comfort and confidence
- Tips for living with new dentures and maintaining oral health
- Fun facts and FAQs throughout to keep the process engaging
Getting dentures is a major step toward restoring not only your smile but also your comfort, confidence, and overall quality of life. Whether you’re missing a few teeth or need a complete replacement, modern dentures are designed to look natural and feel comfortable. At Ocean Atlantic Dental in Virginia Beach, VA, we believe that the process of getting dentures should be smooth, supportive, and completely tailored to you.
Below, we’ll walk you through each stage of your journey — from the first consultation to the moment you look in the mirror and smile again with confidence.
Step 1: The Initial Consultation
Every great denture journey begins with an in-depth consultation. This visit helps both you and your dental team determine your unique needs, goals, and oral health condition. During your consultation, your dentist will examine your mouth, review your dental and medical history, and discuss options for full or partial dentures depending on how many teeth need replacement.
This is your chance to ask questions about materials, comfort, appearance, and costs. Some patients bring photos of their natural smiles to help guide the look of their new dentures. At Ocean Atlantic Dental, we love this step — it’s where your smile transformation truly begins.
What Happens During Your First Visit:
- Comprehensive oral exam and X-rays
- Review of your dental and medical history
- Discussion of available denture options
- Custom plan designed for your comfort and goals
Dentists play a vital role in overall healthcare. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dentists not only diagnose and treat dental issues but also educate patients about preventive care and long-term oral health. This is why your first visit is so important — it’s not just about dentures, it’s about understanding your overall dental well-being.
FAQ Break #1
How long does it take to get dentures after my consultation?
It depends on the type of dentures and whether any teeth need to be removed. Generally, it takes a few weeks to create custom dentures.
Will dentures change how I speak or eat?
Initially, there may be a short adjustment period. With practice and guidance from your dentist, speaking and eating become natural again.
Are dentures painful to wear?
Properly fitted dentures should not cause pain. If they do, adjustments can be made for better comfort.
Step 2: Taking Impressions and Measurements
Once you decide to move forward, the next step involves taking impressions and measurements of your gums and any remaining teeth. This stage ensures that your dentures fit perfectly and function comfortably.
Your dentist uses a soft, pliable material to capture an exact mold of your mouth. This mold is then used to create a detailed model that serves as the foundation for your dentures. The precision here is key — even the smallest detail can make a big difference in how your dentures look and feel.
Some clinics use advanced 3D scanning technology for added accuracy. At Ocean Atlantic Dental, we combine both traditional craftsmanship and modern digital tools to achieve the most natural results possible.
Why Measurements Matter:
- They prevent slippage or discomfort
- They help create a natural-looking bite
- They ensure your dentures enhance facial symmetry
According to the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute, the number of practicing dentists in the United States continues to grow, which means more patients can access personalized, quality care. This growth also encourages innovation — like digital impression techniques — making dentures more accurate and comfortable than ever before.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Type of Dentures
Dentures aren’t one-size-fits-all. Your dentist in Virginia Beach, VA for dentures will help you choose the best option for your lifestyle, oral health, and budget.
Here are the main types:
- Full Dentures: Replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Ideal for patients with extensive tooth loss.
- Partial Dentures: Used when some natural teeth remain. They attach securely around existing teeth for stability.
- Immediate Dentures: Made in advance and placed right after extractions so you never go without teeth.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Anchored to dental implants for superior support and a more natural feel.
Each type has its benefits. For example, implant-supported dentures tend to feel more stable and prevent bone loss in the jaw, while traditional dentures are often more affordable and quicker to produce.
Did You Know?
According to Statista, over 40 million Americans use dentures — a number that has remained steady over the years due to the high success rate and comfort of modern designs. Denture use is most common among adults aged 40 and older, but younger individuals are also turning to partial dentures to replace lost teeth and maintain their appearance.
Step 4: The Try-In Phase
Before your final dentures are crafted, you’ll go through a “try-in” appointment. This stage allows you to see how your dentures will look and feel before the permanent version is made. The try-in set is made from wax and acrylic and fits just like the final version — except you can still make changes.
At Ocean Atlantic Dental, we encourage patients to take their time during this phase. It’s all about creating a set of dentures that feels natural, complements your features, and boosts your confidence.
Step 5: Final Denture Fitting
Once you’ve approved the try-in, your dentures are fabricated in a dental lab using durable materials designed to mimic natural teeth and gums. When your final dentures are ready, you’ll return to the office for fitting.
The goal is for you to leave the office feeling secure and comfortable — ready to smile, talk, and eat confidently.
Your dentist in Virginia Beach, VA for dentures will also schedule follow-up visits to make sure everything continues to fit properly as your mouth adjusts. Small refinements can make a big difference in long-term comfort.
FAQ Break #2
How often should dentures be replaced?
On average, every 5 to 10 years. However, this can vary depending on wear, changes in your gums, and maintenance habits.
Can dentures look natural?
Yes! Modern dentures are made with advanced materials and crafted to match your facial features for a lifelike appearance.
Do I need adhesive with my dentures?
It depends on the fit. Many patients find that properly fitted dentures don’t require adhesive at all.
Step 6: Adjustments and Aftercare
The first few weeks with new dentures can involve a learning curve. Some patients experience mild soreness or extra saliva at first — that’s completely normal. As your mouth adjusts, these sensations fade.
If you experience rubbing or irritation, your dentist can make quick adjustments to improve comfort. Regular checkups allow your dental team to monitor your fit and keep your dentures in top shape.
Essential Aftercare Tips:
- Clean your dentures daily. Use a soft-bristle brush and mild cleaner — not toothpaste, which can be abrasive.
- Soak them overnight. Keeping dentures moist helps them maintain their shape.
- Visit your dentist regularly. Even with dentures, you need routine exams to check for oral health changes.
- Handle with care. Avoid dropping your dentures to prevent cracks or damage.
Your dentist in Virginia Beach, VA for dentures will provide personalized aftercare instructions and product recommendations to help your dentures last as long as possible.
Step 7: Adjusting to Your New Smile
Adapting to dentures can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on your experience and comfort level. During this period, small challenges like speaking or eating certain foods are normal. Start with soft foods and practice reading aloud to help your mouth adjust.
Soon, you’ll find that dentures feel like a natural part of your daily life. They can restore your ability to enjoy meals, smile without hesitation, and speak clearly — all while improving your facial structure and confidence.
At Ocean Atlantic Dental, we see this transformation every day, and it’s one of the most rewarding parts of our work. Watching a patient see their new smile for the first time is always a moment to celebrate.
Final Thoughts
From your first consultation to the moment your new dentures feel like second nature, every step is designed with your comfort in mind. Dentures are a proven, life-changing solution that can restore your smile and confidence with lasting results.
Whether you need full dentures, partials, or implant-supported options, the team at Ocean Atlantic Dental is here to help guide you through the process with compassion and expertise.
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