It is possible to receive dentures on the same day as tooth extractions. This involves “immediate dentures,” designed for placement directly into the mouth after natural teeth are removed. Immediate dentures prevent a period without teeth, offering a continuous dental solution for many patients.
The Immediate Denture Procedure
Obtaining immediate dentures involves a coordinated process that begins well before the day of tooth removal. Initially, the dentist conducts a thorough oral examination, takes X-rays, and creates detailed impressions of the existing teeth and gums. These preliminary impressions are then sent to a dental laboratory, where the immediate dentures are custom-fabricated in advance, designed to closely resemble the natural teeth in shape, size, and color.
On the day of the procedure, the natural teeth are carefully extracted. Immediately following the extractions, the pre-made immediate dentures are inserted into the patient’s mouth, often during the same appointment. This immediate placement helps to protect the surgical sites and minimize bleeding. The dentist then makes initial adjustments to the dentures to ensure a basic fit before the patient leaves the office.
Distinctive Aspects of Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures offer the advantage of providing immediate aesthetic continuity, preventing a period without teeth. This is important for maintaining self-confidence and avoiding social discomfort. The dentures also act as a protective covering for healing gum tissues, helping reduce bleeding and protecting extraction sites from irritation.
A notable characteristic of immediate dentures is their fit, based on impressions taken before extractions. As gums and underlying bone heal after tooth removal, they naturally shrink and change shape. This ongoing change means immediate dentures will become less snug, requiring multiple adjustments, and eventually a reline or replacement for optimal fit. Adapting to speaking and eating with immediate dentures can present initial challenges due to fresh extraction sites and the evolving fit as the mouth heals.
Adapting to Immediate Dentures
The initial healing period after immediate denture placement requires specific care. Patients are typically advised to keep the dentures in continuously for the first 24 hours to manage swelling and support blood clot formation at extraction sites. Some discomfort, swelling, and bruising are expected during the first few days to a week. Applying ice packs can help alleviate swelling.
Frequent follow-up appointments are necessary for adjustments as gums heal and change. The fit of immediate dentures will change significantly as soft tissues and bone remodel, often leading to looseness. Over time, typically within 6 to 12 months, immediate dentures will require a reline, where new material is added to improve the fit, or may need replacement once the mouth has fully stabilized. Maintaining oral hygiene involves cleaning dentures daily and gently rinsing the mouth with warm salt water, especially after the first 24 hours, to promote healing.