Adventures in Dentures: Rediscovering  Smiles & Confidence

Story by an Anonymous Patient

Growing older comes with challenges and opportunities, and one of the more unexpected challenges involves navigating a new life with dentures. From the first appointment to the joy of rediscovering smiles, my journey encompasses a mixture of apprehension and empowerment. After this experience, I want everyone to know what it’s like to live with dentures. So, come with me and dive into this new world and see what I can only describe as an adventure in dentures.

The First Step: Acceptance

First of all, let me start by saying losing any or all your teeth sucks and I don’t recommend it. I put myself in a bad position early in life and removing all of my teeth was my only option. The decision to get dentures did not come easy. It was followed by a grueling period of pain and guilt from dental decay, injury, and untreated gum disease. This was an emotionally depressing phase of my life as I, along with many others I’m told, goes through similar feelings of self-consciousness, embarrassment, and suffering. However, the sooner I acknowledged this change as a positive step towards better health and enhanced quality of life, the better my life became in accepting my new constructive journey forward.

The Fitting Process: A Custom Experience

During my first appointment, I was immediately put at ease with the whole office. Dr. Seale and her team at iHeart Dental were all so friendly, supportive, and understanding of my needs. I felt no judgment whatsoever. Even Apollo the therapy dog greeted me with love and affection. Why didn’t I do this sooner? I didn’t feel any embarrassment from all my poor dental choices in the past and I quickly had hope and positivity regarding my future. They explained denture making process into 4 steps:

1. Impressions

2. Wax bite

3. Teeth Try-in

4. Denture Delivery

Patience is key here, as getting the perfect fit might require a few tweaks and adjustments. Think of it as tailoring a new suit—meticulous and worth every bit of the effort.

Learning to Live with Dentures: The Adjustment Period

Wearing dentures for the first time can feel strange. Speaking, eating, and even smiling might take some getting used to. During this adjustment period, it’s important to practice patience. They suggested I start with soft foods and gradually introduce more variety and work my way up to harder and more solid foods. Cutting my food into very small pieces, practicing speaking in front of a mirror and reading aloud also helped me get accustomed to my new set of dentures more quickly.

Maintenance: Keeping Them in Top Shape

Dentures, like natural teeth, require consistent care. Brushing them daily, soaking them overnight, and regular check-ups with your dentist will ensure they remain clean and functional. Special denture cleaners and solutions make this task easier, keeping your dentures fresh and free from bacteria.

Embracing the New You: Confidence Restored

Perhaps the most rewarding part of this adventure is the confidence restored by having a full set of teeth again. The ability to laugh freely, eat favorite foods, and socialize without fear of embarrassment can be life-changing. Many individuals find that their overall outlook improves significantly, making the journey worth every step.

Stories to Share: The Denture Community

One of the surprising benefits of this journey is the sense of community. Many people share similar experiences, and connecting with others—whether through support groups, online forums, or casual conversations—can provide valuable insights and moral support.

In conclusion, the adventure in dentures is much more than a cosmetic change. It’s a journey of self-acceptance, realignment, and rediscovered confidence. So, if you’re on the verge of this adventure or already navigating it, embrace it fully. Your smile is worth it!


(912) 499-1133  |  iheartdental.com
135 Goshen Rd Ext #205, Rincon