How to Help Your Partner Get Dentures — What to Know

While modern advances in dental technology have made it convenient to get dentures, a patient still needs to undergo multiple processes. Having a support system is crucial, and you could provide that for a loved one or close friend. Read on to learn more about the “before” phase of getting a denture and how you can be a helpful partner:

Providing Mental and Emotional Support

Getting new dentures is not as simple as buying a bag at the department store. It involves preliminary work, as well as mental preparation. People who need them have lost a few teeth, which could be devastating or depressing. Having a full set of pearly whites is a crucial part of a person’s identity. For this reason, you need to be a source of encouragement to your partner at this low moment. Remind them that getting a set of artificial bridges is the first step towards regaining their confidence.

Finding the Right Dental Clinic

At the same time, help your partner learn everything there is to know about getting dentures. Research about the topic and gather information from other people. Most importantly, find an excellent dental clinic. Ask for referrals and check out online reviews. It’s crucial to have reliable dental practitioners who will guide you throughout the process and clearly explain every stage.

Many clinics offer initial consultations free-of-charge. This is the perfect time to get the feel of the place, as well as the specialists you will be working with. A prosthetist will take impressions of your partner’s oral cavity to prepare for a customized denture. If your partner needs a tooth extraction, either a dentist or oral surgeon will perform this step, depending on the complexity of the case. In some instances, these steps are done by a single, qualified dental practitioner.

Making the Right Choices

During your first meeting, the dentists will examine your partner’s mouth and offer a detailed treatment plan. In some cases, the dentist will suggest a tooth extraction. Your partner may feel overwhelmed with too much information and emotions, so having a second set of ears during this talk is truly helpful.

There are certain cases when the patient will be asked to make a quick decision. The dentist may offer to remove the teeth, get fitted for dentures, and wait for a few months before placing them. Or, the teeth can be removed and have the patient wear dentures all on the same day. Because it’s easy to get overloaded with details, it’s vital to stay alert and objective.

Whichever treatment option your partner chooses, keep in mind that this is only the first step of a long process. Your support should not end once the dentures have been in place. It will take a while for your partner to get used to wearing artificial teeth. Your presence and guidance will surely ease your partner’s worries and doubts. Being there for thick and thin, in sickness and in health, is a sure way to boost your beloved’s confidence and self-esteem.

If you are looking to get dentures for your loved ones, get in touch with a family dentist in Ypsilanti to see how we can help.