Dentures are custom-made tooth replacement solutions that allow people to eat, speak, and smile normally after tooth loss. The fitting process is crucial to ensuring comfort and functionality and requires time and patience. In this article, we explain the different stages—from fabrication to long-term care—and provide practical tips for a smooth fitting.

Production and initial adjustment

Making a denture is a multi-step process that requires precision and expertise. According to My Denture Care, this process includes the following steps:

1. Tooth extraction: The dentist explains the process step by step and provides recommendations for aftercare.
2. Impression taking: Impressions of the jaw are taken to create a custom model.
3. Bite impression: Wax blocks are used to determine the bite position, allowing patients to select the shape and color of their teeth. Bringing old photos is recommended to optimize the appearance.
4. Wax models: The teeth are modeled in wax to check the final appearance.
5. Insertion: The finished denture is inserted and the dentist gives instructions on how to handle it.

One special type is immediate dentures, which, according to Oral-B, are inserted immediately after tooth extraction. This temporary solution helps maintain facial shape and support the healing process, but requires more frequent adjustments because they often don't fit perfectly.

The adjustment phase

After the dentures are inserted, the adjustment period begins, which usually lasts several weeks. According to Die Pluszahnärzte and Kamistad, the following symptoms may occur:

• Pressure sores and pain: New dentures can cause pressure sores, which often resolve on their own as the mouth adjusts. If food particles get under the dentures, this can cause irritation, which can become infected by bacteria.
• Increased salivation: The mouth initially produces more saliva, which usually regulates itself after a few days.
• Difficulty eating and speaking: Eating certain foods or speaking clearly may be difficult at first. This improves with practice.

According to Die Pluszahnärzte, the adjustment period typically lasts four weeks, but can vary. Practical tips for adjustment include:

• Start with soft foods and gradually increase the hardness to protect the jaw muscles.
• Use both sides of the jaw evenly to avoid pressure points.
• Initially, wear the prosthesis day and night to speed up the adjustment and practice speaking regularly to get used to the new situation.

Adjustments and relining

Over time, it may become necessary to adjust the denture, especially as the jawbone changes due to natural processes. According to Verivox, this can be achieved through relining, which involves lining the denture with new material to improve its fit. There are two main types:

• Direct relining: Performed in a single dental appointment, but is less precise and can lead to hygiene problems because the material can be porous.
• Indirect relining: The denture is sent to the laboratory to ensure a more precise fit, which is used more frequently.

The cost of a reline typically ranges between €100 and €300, with statutory health insurance covering approximately €50, according to Verivox. Private insurance often covers the entire cost. It's important to have adjustments performed only by a dentist, as self-adjustment can lead to serious problems such as pressure sores and inflammation.

Long-term care and maintenance

To maximize the lifespan and comfort of the prosthesis, regular care and maintenance are essential. According to Kamistad, recommendations include:

• Daily cleaning: Clean your dentures daily with a soft brush and a special cleaning agent to avoid hygiene problems. If necessary, use dental floss or interdental brushes to remove food debris.
• Regular check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly to check the fit and condition of your dentures, especially if your jawbone changes.
• Products for better retention: Products like DinaBase7 can help improve retention and comfort, especially during initial difficulties. However, the use of such products should be discussed with your dentist, as dentures should ideally stay in place without adhesives.

Frequently Asked Questions

To provide you with further support, we answer some frequently asked questions:

1. How long does it take to get used to dentures?
   The adjustment period usually lasts about four weeks, but can vary depending on the person, as Die Pluszahnärzte states.
2. What can I do if my prosthesis is pressing?
   If pressure sores persist, you should see your dentist to have your dentures adjusted, as Kamistad recommends. Attempting to do this yourself may lead to further problems.
3. Can I adjust my prosthesis myself?
   No, adjustments should always be performed by a dentist, as self-attempts carry risks such as pressure sores and inflammation, as Verivox warns.

Summary

The denture fitting process requires patience and regular interaction with the dentist to ensure comfort and functionality. Manufacturing involves several steps, and the adjustment process may involve some initial discomfort such as pressure sores and increased salivation, which will subside over time. Adjustments such as relining are necessary as the jawbone changes, and products such as DinaBase7 can provide additional comfort. Regular care and checkups are crucial for long-term benefits from the prosthesis.

Overview of the adaptation process