Immediate Dentures

We offer both partial and full immediate denture options as a solution for those who prefer not to go without teeth during the healing process after tooth extraction. However, it is crucial to be aware of certain factors.

Immediate dentures are temporary and may not fit well in the long run as the gums shrink after tooth extraction, with 80% of the shrinkage occurring within the first 3 months and the remaining 20% in the following 9 months.

This may require relining or even a new denture if there are significant changes in the gum tissue, which cannot be predicted in advance. Although immediate dentures can act as a bandage for the gums, they may also cause pain and discomfort as the gums are still healing. If you have a low pain tolerance, delayed dentures may be a better option for you. Additionally, immediate dentures are associated with higher costs.

Once the gums have healed, we can explore options for improving the fit of the denture until it’s time for a permanent relining. It is important to note that relining an immediate denture is essential for proper function and fit.

What else should I consider about immediate dentures?

There are a few more things to consider when deciding between immediate and delayed dentures.

One important factor to keep in mind is that immediate dentures can be more challenging to adjust to than delayed dentures. Since immediate dentures are inserted immediately after tooth extraction, they can feel bulky or uncomfortable, and you may need time to adjust to speaking and eating with them. In contrast, delayed dentures are made after the gums have fully healed, and the fit can be more comfortable from the outset.

Another consideration is that immediate dentures may not be as aesthetically pleasing as delayed dentures. Because immediate dentures are made before the gums have fully healed, the fit may not be as precise, and the denture may not look as natural as a delayed denture. This is another reason why some patients may prefer to wait for a delayed denture.

Other factors during he healing process. 

Finally, it’s worth noting that while immediate dentures can provide some functional benefits during the healing process, they are not suitable for everyone. For example, if you have certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or severe gum disease, immediate dentures may not be recommended. Additionally, if you are a heavy smoker or have a history of poor oral hygiene, you may be at a higher risk for complications with immediate dentures, such as infection or poor healing.

In summary, while immediate dentures can be a useful option for some patients, there are several factors to consider when deciding between immediate and delayed dentures, including comfort, aesthetics, and medical history. A consultation with a dental professional can help you make an informed decision based on your unique needs and preferences.

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 decision.

Immediate dentures may take several weeks, or even longer, to become comfortable for many patients. As the tooth sockets, gums, and bones heal, sore areas or ulcers may develop, making it difficult to adjust to the new denture. The muscles of the lips, cheeks, and tongue will need to learn how to hold the denture in place, which can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks or longer. During this time, you may experience difficulty speaking and eating. It is common for denture fixatives to be used after the placement of immediate dentures due to the “maxilla” (upper jaw) or “mandible” (lower jaw’s) natural shrinkage during the healing process. It’s important to note that sore spots and ulcers are not uncommon after the fitting of immediate dentures, and regular follow-up appointments with your denture specialists are essential to ensure proper healing and comfort.