Fun Dental Facts: Did You Know?

When you have decayed or damaged teeth, the idea of having them pulled and then waiting for dentures can often cause anxiety. The idea of spending weeks or longer without teeth can affect your ability to eat as well as make you very self-conscious. But can you get tooth extractions and dentures on the same day? With immediate dentures, you can have your decayed and damaged teeth pulled and immediately replaced by a temporary denture that allows you to walk out of the dentist with an immediate smile. Here we take a look at immediate dentures and the pros and cons of this restorative dental option.

What are immediate dentures?

Immediate dentures, also known as temporary dentures, are oral prosthetics that can be placed into the mouth immediately following dental extraction. They allow you to walk out of the dentist’s office with a new smile, meaning you never have to go without teeth in place.

How are immediate dentures different?

With traditional dentures, your dentist extracts your teeth, and you are sent home to allow your gums and tissue time to heal. During this healing process, you do not have any teeth in place. Once the gums heal, your dentist will take a mold of your gums, as well as other measurements, and your new denture will be ordered. In many cases, this means you may go months without any teeth in place.

With immediate dentures, your dentist makes a mold of your mouth while your teeth are still in place. Dentures are made before your extractions and, once the teeth are removed, your denture is immediately put into place. This allows you to walk out of the dentist with a full smile.

Advantages

Immediate dentures offer patients many different advantages that include:

• • Protection of the tooth sockets during the healing process
  • Reduce jaw atrophy after extraction
  • You have no time without teeth in place
  • You can maintain your self-esteem and lifestyle immediately
  • Allows you to eat and talk in the same manner as with your natural teeth

Disadvantages

Unfortunately, immediate dentures are not for everyone. Some common disadvantages can include:

• • Requires multiple trips to the dentist before and after extraction to receive measurements, make adjustments, and be fitted for a permanent denture if necessary
  • As your gums heal and the swelling goes down, your dentures may loosen and cause discomfort

How many teeth can be pulled at once for dentures?

With restorative dentistry for immediate dentures, your dentist can remove all your teeth at once for immediate dentures. You can, however, choose to have your molars pulled first and heal before having your remaining teeth removed.

How long does it take to get immediate dentures?

The process for immediate dentures begins with the measurements of your jaw and mouth in order to have your immediate denture created. While the measurement process is relatively quick, it can take up to a month for your denture to be made. Once your denture is complete and ready, you can schedule your extraction date and the new denture is put in place immediately after extraction.

How long do immediate dentures last?

Immediate dentures are designed to create an immediate tooth replacement option; however, they are not necessarily permanent solutions. After your gums heal, your dentist will review your immediate denture to see how it sits in your mouth. If it continues to fit well or only needs minor adjustments, your immediate denture may often become your permanent denture. However, if your gums change significantly, your dentist may recommend a new measurement for a more permanent denture that fits better. In general, dentures can last between 7-10 years when taken care of properly.

Do you need immediate dentures?

Immediate dentures are not for everyone and, in some cases, may not be the right choice for you. Immediate dentures are designed to provide an immediate tooth replacement for those looking to have no time without teeth and can help those with anxiety and self-esteem issues. However, certain dental or health concerns, such as severe gum disease or underlying medical conditions, can affect the body’s ability to heal with immediate dentures, leading to additional complications. Your dentist will evaluate your overall health, including your emotional and mental state when determining if immediate dentures are right for you.

Immediate dentures deliver an immediate smile

If you need tooth extractions and are considering dentures but don’t want to wait weeks or months to have your replacement teeth, then immediate dentures may be the right option for you. With immediate dentures, you can maintain a seamless smile and functionality from the moment your teeth are removed.

Let us help give you the beautiful smile you want

At Soundview Family Dental, we understand the importance of a healthy, beautiful smile for both your self-esteem and your daily life. With immediate dentures, we can give you back your smile and the ability to eat the foods you love without any delay.

To learn more about how immediate dentures can give you back your smile, contact us today to schedule an initial consultation to determine which denture options are best for you.