If you have teeth that need to be removed immediate dentures, also known as temporary dentures, will be inserted the same day so you can leave the dental office with visible teeth. These dentures can be for one tooth, a few teeth or all of your teeth.
If you’re wondering about the process and timing of getting immediate dentures, it’s common to have questions about how soon you can have your new teeth and what to expect.
Sometimes, your teeth can start to become loose, fall out or fracture. If you need to have teeth replaced because of tooth decay or periodontal disease, you may have the option to wear dentures or get dental implants. Either way you may want temporary teeth. With immediate dentures, you don’t have to wait for your new teeth, unlike with other options that require a healing period before dentures can be placed.
If you’re looking for a temporary solution while you prepare to get your permanent dentures, we’ve got some great information to help you make the best decision.
Introduction to Denture Options
When you’re faced with missing teeth, understanding your denture options is the first step toward restoring your smile and confidence. Immediate dentures are a popular choice for those who want temporary teeth right after tooth extraction, so you don’t have to go without teeth while your gums heal. Permanent dentures are custom-made to fit your mouth once it has fully healed, offering a long-term solution for missing teeth.
If you’re only missing a few teeth, partial dentures can fill the gaps and help maintain your oral health. Complete dentures are designed for patients who need to replace all their teeth. Each option comes with its own benefits, and knowing what’s available can help you make the best decision for your needs, ensuring you can smile immediately and maintain good oral health throughout the process.
What are Immediate Dentures?
The most obvious difference between an immediate and permanent denture is that the former is basically temporary. Like I said, it’s not custom-fitted to the mouth so it doesn’t always fit properly. But you will have teeth to smile with and eat with.
The teeth extraction procedure begins by making the area numb with local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. After your teeth extraction the new dentures will be inserted and adjusted to make them comfortable. The gums need several months to heal so you will wear these for 2-6 months until your final dentures are fabricated. The immediate dentures will also protect the tooth sockets while you are healing just like a band-aid.
With immediate dentures, you can have teeth immediately after extraction, allowing for a quick transition and immediate functionality.
If you’re in need of dentures, consider immediate dentures from our office. You’ll be able to eat and speak right away, rather than waiting months for your permanent dentures.
Am I a Good Candidate for Immediate Dentures after Tooth Extraction?
Honestly, not everyone needs immediate dentures. If you are only losing a molar or maybe a few teeth on the side then you may choose not to get replacement teeth. You do have the option to go without teeth for several months until the gums heal. However 90% of our patients choose to have temporary dentures.
If you are losing a front tooth or all of your teeth, then an immediate denture makes the most sense. Being in good health is also important for being considered a good candidate for immediate dentures.
Immediate dentures can trigger a gag reflex in some people. Because they aren’t custom-fitted to your mouth, they can slide around and touch the back of your mouth, thus triggering this reflex.
The Importance of Consultation
Before starting the denture process, scheduling a consultation with your dentist is essential. During this appointment, your dentist will carefully evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and explain the entire process, from tooth extraction to getting your new dentures. They’ll help you understand what to expect, including how many appointments you’ll need, the healing time after extractions, and whether you’re a good candidate for immediate dentures. Your dentist will also talk you through the benefits and drawbacks of different options, such as traditional dentures, temporary dentures, and implant-supported dentures. This personalized approach ensures that your treatment plan is tailored to your needs, your jawbone health is considered, and you’re prepared for several adjustments along the way. A thorough consultation is the best way to make sure you’re comfortable and confident with your choice.
Preparation and Planning
A successful denture process starts with careful preparation and planning. Before your tooth extraction, your dentist will take detailed impressions of your mouth to create a mold for your immediate denture. This step ensures that your temporary dentures are ready to be worn as soon as your teeth are removed, so you can leave the dental office with a complete smile. The healing process after extractions can take several weeks or even months, depending on how many teeth are removed and your overall oral health. During this time, you may need to wear temporary dentures or partial dentures to help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Your dentist will guide you through each stage, offering advice on caring for your dentures and maintaining good oral health as your mouth heals.
How are Immediate Dentures made?
Making immediate dentures may require multiple appointments and typically takes 1-2 weeks before getting your teeth removed, depending on individual needs.
One of our skilled dentists or prosthodontist (a specialist in making dentures) will take accurate impressions of your mouth. The dentist will also measure your jaw and assess its shape to ensure your dentures fit properly. From these molds we can generate your new dentures with brand new teeth to the color of your choosing. All our patients leave with beautiful new smiles!
If your back molars need to be extracted first, there may be a six to eight weeks waiting period before immediate dentures can be made.
Denture Types and Materials
Today’s dentures come in a variety of types and materials to suit different needs and preferences. Immediate dentures are typically made from acrylic or ceramic, using impressions taken before your extractions to ensure a quick fit. Once your gums have healed, permanent dentures are crafted from high-quality materials like porcelain, ceramic, or composite resins, offering a more precise fit and a natural look. For those seeking extra stability, dental implants can be used to anchor partial or complete dentures, providing a secure and functional solution. The choice of denture type and material will depend on your individual needs, budget, and how you want your new smile to look and feel. Your dentist will help you weigh the benefits of each option, ensuring you get the best results for your lifestyle.
How long do Immediate Dentures last?
Immediate dentures are designed to be temporary, only worn until the arrival of a permanent denture. Since they are not custom-fitted to the mouth, it’s normal for them to slip and move as we eat, talk, and laugh. It is also common for people to not wear these for more than 6-12 months.
Your initial dentures will also need to be frequently adjusted and lined (adding material to the inside of your denture) as your mouth heals and the swelling subsides.
Once your permanent dentures are made, you will be able to keep the temporary ones as a back up set.
How Much do Immediate Dentures Cost?
Immediate dentures are cheaper than permanent dentures since there are not as many steps to making them.
The best dentures are custom-built to fit each patient. These functional and natural-looking dentures use expensive materials that make them look and feel better than any other kinds of dentures. These premium dentures can range from $2,000 to $4,000 per plate or $4,000 to $8,000 for the whole mouth.
Fortunately immediate dentures are more affordable. Pricing depends on how many teeth are being replaced, but the range for immediates are from $300 to $1500 per plate.
Of course if you have dental insurance they will help pay towards your treatment, but only if you have a PPO plan. Not sure what dental plan you have? Talk to our expert and find out exactly what your plan covers.
Denture Care and Maintenance
Taking good care of your dentures is key to keeping your smile bright and your dentures comfortable and functional. Clean your dentures daily with a soft brush and mild soap, and soak them overnight in a denture cleaning solution to keep them fresh. Your dentist will show you the best way to insert and remove your dentures, as well as how to store them safely when not in use. Regular dental check-ups are important to make sure your dentures continue to fit well and to make any necessary adjustments. With proper care and maintenance, your dentures can last for years, helping you enjoy a confident smile and a better quality of life.
How painful are Immediate Dentures?
Immediate dentures should not hurt, however you will have gum soreness especially after having your teeth removed. Your new dentures will need several adjustments over the next few weeks and a soft liner or cushion will be added to help ease the pain.
It may take a while to get used to your new dentures. You should be prepared for occasional soreness as you become accustomed to a new way of eating and being able to speak clearly.
Rockville Dental Arts is Here for You
For people who want to replace their missing teeth, getting immediate dentures is often the best choice. Immediate dentures can be put in place immediately after your last tooth is extracted, ensuring you do not go without teeth. Our practice offers both complete denture and partial denture options, depending on how many teeth need to be replaced.
If you are looking for a solution to replace your missing teeth that will allow you to eat and speak better, our office can help you determine whether this is the best choice for you. Our practice has extensive experience providing a full range of denture solutions to meet your needs.
If you’re considering dentures, be sure to discuss your options with your dentist. Contact our office for more information or to discuss your options, and schedule a consultation to determine the best denture solution for your needs. Talk to them about what they can do and ask for a before and after picture of their work.
Making a big change in your life? You’re not alone. Many patients have made the decision to replace their teeth with dentures or dental implants. We take special care with every case, and work closely with you every step of the way to ensure comfort and success throughout your journey.