When multiple teeth are removed, an immediate denture is often placed as a temporary replacement so you do not have to go without teeth while your mouth heals. Unlike a conventional denture, which is made after the gums have fully recovered, the immediate denture is fabricated before the extractions and fitted immediately. This appliance aids in the initial recovery phase by protecting the extraction sites and helping to maintain your appearance and ability to speak. Following a specific timeline for wearing and removal ensures proper healing and fit.
The Critical First 24 Hours
The most important instruction after extractions is to leave the immediate denture in place for the first 24 hours. This strict initial wearing period is necessary for physiological reasons related to healing, as the denture acts as a protective dressing over the surgical sites. The continuous pressure helps manage initial bleeding by promoting blood clot formation and limits post-operative swelling. Removing the denture too soon can cause the gums to swell past the denture’s border, making reinsertion difficult. Keeping the denture in place stabilizes the blood clots, which prevents the painful complication known as dry socket.
What to Expect During the First Removal
After the initial 24 hours, or as directed by your dentist, the immediate denture can be removed for the first time. Ideally, this is done during a follow-up appointment so the dentist can inspect the extraction sites, check healing progress, and make necessary adjustments to the denture base. If removing it yourself, the denture may feel tightly suctioned or difficult to dislodge; gently wiggle the appliance or use a finger to break the seal, but do not force removal. Once removed, expect swelling and minor residual bleeding or blood-tinged saliva, which is normal after a major procedure. Clean the denture gently with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleanser, avoiding regular toothpaste which can scratch the acrylic.
For the first few days, begin gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water two to three times a day. Mix one teaspoon of salt into warm water, allowing the mixture to cool to a comfortable temperature before swishing. Avoid vigorous rinsing or forceful spitting, as this action could dislodge the protective blood clots. It is important to reinsert the denture immediately after cleaning the mouth and appliance, as the tissues can still swell quickly at this stage.
Managing the Early Healing Period
The period following the first removal marks the beginning of several months of significant changes in your mouth. The gums and underlying bone that once supported your natural teeth will begin a process called resorption, where they shrink and remodel. This rapid tissue change means the immediate denture, custom-made to fit immediately after extraction, will quickly become loose. The fit can deteriorate noticeably within weeks, requiring professional intervention to maintain stability and comfort.
To address looseness, your dentist will often perform a soft or temporary reline. This procedure involves adding a soft, pliable material to the fitting surface to conform to the changing contours of your healing gums. Sore spots are common where the denture rubs against surgical areas and require prompt adjustments by your dental professional to prevent irritation and infection. Your diet should remain soft for the first few days, gradually introducing more solid foods as comfort allows. The immediate denture serves as a transitional appliance for approximately six to twelve months until the bone and gum tissues are fully stable and ready for a final, conventional denture.