Delayed Dentures

Delayed dentures, also known as conventional dentures or permanent dentures, are a type of removable denture that is made after your teeth have been extracted and your gums have fully healed. 

This can take several months, during which time you may need to go without teeth or use temporary dentures. Once your gums have healed, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth to create a custom-fitted denture that is designed to fit securely over your gums and stay in place while you eat, speak, and smile. Delayed dentures can be made to replace a full set of teeth (complete dentures) or just a few missing teeth (partial dentures). They can be made from a variety of materials, including acrylic, porcelain, and resin, and can be customized to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. Delayed dentures require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them in good condition, and they may need to be relined or adjusted over time to ensure a proper fit.

Considerations when choosing Immdiate or Delayed Dentures

One of the most important considerations when choosing between immediate and delayed dentures is the condition of your gums and “maxilla” (upper jaw) or “mandible” (lower jaw’s). Immediate dentures can be a good option if your gums are healthy and your “maxilla” (upper jaw) or “mandible” (lower jaw’s) are strong enough to support them. However, if you have significant gum disease or bone loss, immediate dentures may not be the best choice. In these cases, it may be necessary to wait for the gums to heal and the bone to regenerate before getting delayed dentures.

Another factor to consider is your personal comfort level with the denture process. Some patients may find the idea of going without teeth for several months uncomfortable, and may prefer to have immediate dentures placed during the extraction appointment. However, if you are able to tolerate the healing process without dentures, delayed dentures may offer a more comfortable and natural-looking result.

Adjustment of Immediate Dentures

It’s also important to keep in mind that immediate dentures require frequent adjustments and relining as the gums and bone continue to change during the healing process. These adjustments can be time-consuming and may require multiple appointments. In contrast, delayed dentures can be more precisely fitted and require fewer adjustments, which can be more convenient in the long run.

Costs

Finally, the cost of the denture process is also an important consideration. While immediate dentures may be more expensive initially, delayed dentures may require additional procedures, such as bone grafting or other preparatory treatments, which can add to the overall cost.

Overall, the decision between immediate and delayed dentures is a complex one that should be made in consultation with a dental professional. Factors such as gum and bone health, personal comfort, and cost should all be taken into account when making this important decisionI