An interim denture, often called an immediate or temporary denture, is a removable dental appliance placed immediately following the removal of natural teeth or preparatory oral surgery. This prosthetic acts as a placeholder, providing a temporary restoration of appearance and function during the initial healing phase. Because it is fabricated prior to extractions based on pre-operative impressions, it is not custom-fitted to the fully healed anatomy of the mouth.
The Primary Purpose of Interim Dentures
The primary purpose of the interim denture is to bridge the gap between tooth loss and the fabrication of a long-term prosthesis. Immediately after extraction, the appliance acts as a protective dressing over the surgical sites, helping to control post-operative bleeding and protecting sensitive gum tissue. It is also crucial for maintaining the patient’s appearance and self-confidence, allowing for the continuation of social and professional life. Furthermore, it aids in the early re-establishment of speaking and chewing functions. The appliance also helps preserve the vertical dimension of occlusion, which is important for facial aesthetics and proper jaw alignment, providing a functional template for the eventual permanent prosthesis.
Timeline and Expectations for Wear
The duration an interim denture is worn is determined by the biological process of healing and tissue remodeling in the jaw. Following tooth removal, the alveolar bone and soft tissues undergo significant shrinkage, known as resorption. The most dramatic changes occur within the first three to six months after the extraction procedure. Dental professionals typically recommend wearing the interim denture for six to twelve months, allowing the majority of tissue stabilization to occur. Because the tissues are continuously shrinking, the fit will loosen, requiring regular appointments for adjustments and temporary relines to compensate for changing gum contours.
Caring for Your Temporary Denture
Proper care is necessary, as interim dentures are often made from less durable materials than permanent ones. Sore spots are common during the initial adjustment phase due to uneven pressure on the healing gums. If a persistent sore develops, the denture should be worn for a few hours before a dental visit so the clinician can identify the precise area needing adjustment.
- The denture must be removed and thoroughly cleaned daily using a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner or mild soap. Avoid regular toothpaste, as its abrasive nature can scratch the acrylic surface.
- After the initial 24 to 48-hour healing period, remove the denture overnight to allow gum tissues to rest and promote circulation.
- When not worn, the appliance must be kept moist by soaking it in water or a denture-soaking solution to prevent the acrylic from drying out and warping.
Transition to the Permanent Prosthesis
The transition to the final, permanent denture marks the conclusion of the treatment phase. The definitive prosthesis can only be accurately fabricated once the oral tissues are fully healed and the initial, rapid changes from bone resorption have stabilized, ensuring a precise and long-lasting fit. This process typically begins after the six- to twelve-month healing window, when the dentist takes final impressions of the stabilized oral anatomy. The permanent denture is then custom-designed by a dental laboratory using stronger, more dense acrylic for enhanced durability and stability. In some cases, the interim denture may be converted into the permanent prosthesis through a hard reline, replacing the temporary lining material with durable, laboratory-processed acrylic.