Immediate full dentures are custom-made prosthetic teeth that are placed in the mouth immediately after a patient undergoes full extraction of their natural teeth. This approach is designed to restore both function and aesthetics without delay, allowing individuals to walk out of the dental office the same day with a complete smile. Unlike traditional dentures that require a healing period before placement, immediate dentures are fabricated ahead of time and inserted directly following tooth removal.
For many patients, the idea of spending weeks or months without teeth can be distressing—both socially and emotionally. Immediate dentures help avoid that concern and maintain the natural contours of the face, which can otherwise change during healing. Though they are not a permanent solution, they offer a valuable bridge while the gums and bone recover.
The Process of Getting Immediate Dentures
The process starts well before any teeth are extracted. During the initial consultation, the dentist evaluates your overall oral health and discusses whether immediate dentures are the right fit for your needs. If approved, the dentist takes detailed impressions of your mouth while your teeth are still in place. These impressions are sent to a dental lab, where technicians use them to craft a personalized set of dentures that match your mouth’s shape and size.
Once the dentures are ready, a second appointment is scheduled for the extraction of the teeth. Immediately afterward, the dentures are fitted onto your gums. Though this provides instant coverage and function, the shape of your gums will begin to change as they heal. As a result, the dentures may feel loose or ill-fitting after a few weeks, which is completely normal and expected.
To address this, your dentist will typically schedule follow-up visits to adjust the fit. In some cases, patients may require a temporary relining or a new set of permanent dentures once healing is complete.
Benefits and Limitations
Immediate full dentures offer a number of clear advantages. First and foremost, they help preserve your appearance at a time when many feel most self-conscious. Whether you’re concerned about social interactions or professional obligations, these dentures let you continue smiling, speaking, and eating with confidence.
Additionally, they provide basic protection to the gum tissue and can even reduce post-extraction bleeding. By covering the sockets, they act as a kind of bandage, supporting initial healing.
However, it’s also important to understand the limitations. Since they are made before your gums have healed, immediate dentures aren’t tailored to the final contours of your mouth. This often means they’ll require adjustments or a complete replacement once healing stabilizes. Also, because they involve multiple appointments—including fabrication, extraction, fitting, and follow-up—the overall cost may be higher than conventional dentures.
Is This Option Right for You?
Immediate full dentures can be a lifesaver for those who want to maintain normalcy during dental transitions. They’re especially useful for people who value appearance and functionality during the healing phase, such as those in customer-facing careers or who have upcoming social events.
However, they’re not suitable for everyone. Your dentist will assess factors like bone density, gum health, and your overall medical history before recommending immediate dentures. It’s crucial to have realistic expectations and prepare for multiple visits, as adjustments will almost certainly be needed.
With the right care and guidance, immediate dentures can make the journey from natural teeth to permanent prosthetics a smoother, more confident one.
