Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures are a restorative option designed for patients who require the removal of all remaining teeth. This treatment allows for the placement of a full denture on the same day as extractions, ensuring that patients do not experience a period without teeth during the healing phase.
Prior to the extraction appointment, we begin the fabrication process by taking precise impressions of your existing teeth and gums. These records are used to design a custom denture that closely replicates your natural smile. On the day of extractions, the immediate denture is inserted, restoring both appearance and basic function right away.
Important Considerations
Because immediate dentures are fabricated before the teeth are removed, the final fit cannot be fully evaluated in the mouth prior to extractions. As healing progresses, changes in the gums and underlying bone are expected. For this reason, adjustments are often required, and in some cases, achieving optimal comfort may involve multiple follow-up visits.
While we strive to provide the best possible fit from the outset, it is normal for immediate dentures to require refinements over time to ensure proper comfort, function, and stability.
Benefits of Immediate Dentures
- Immediate restoration of appearance and smile confidence
- Supports speech adaptation with dentures from the beginning
- Helps maintain facial structure and prevent a sunken appearance
- Reduces the number of visits required for tooth replacement
- Protects extraction sites and helps control post-operative bleeding
Post-Extraction Care and Healing
Following placement, careful attention to aftercare is essential for proper healing and long-term success. As the gums and bone heal, natural shrinkage of the tissues will occur. Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor healing and make appropriate adjustments.
Temporary soft liners or tissue conditioners are often used during this phase to improve comfort and fit. These materials may require periodic replacement or adjustment. Once healing is complete, a permanent reline is typically performed to achieve a stable, accurate, and comfortable final fit.
At Max Dental, we will guide you through each stage of the process and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan based on your individual needs. Please note that relines, soft liners, and tissue conditioners may involve additional fees.
Frequently Asked Questions About Immediate Dentures
Should dentures be worn at night?
With the exception of the first 24 hours after placement—when dentures should remain in place to help control swelling and bleeding—it is recommended that dentures be removed at night. This allows for proper cleaning and gives the gum tissues time to rest.
What can I eat after receiving immediate dentures?
A soft diet is recommended for the first several days. Foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, pasta, and soft-cooked vegetables are ideal. Chewing slowly and evenly on both sides of the mouth will help improve comfort and adaptation.
How should immediate dentures be cleaned?
Dentures should be cleaned daily using a soft brush with non-abrasive denture cleanser or mild liquid soap. They may also be soaked in a denture-cleaning solution to maintain hygiene and freshness.
Why do immediate dentures feel loose over time?
It is normal for immediate dentures to feel progressively looser during the first several months as the gums and bone reshape following extractions. Periodic relining is typically required during this healing period to maintain proper fit and comfort.
Immediate dentures provide a reliable solution for restoring appearance and function immediately after tooth removal, while supporting a gradual transition to a long-term, well-fitting prosthesis.
To schedule a consultation for immediate dentures, please contact our office at Max Dental Phone Number (305) 948-8882.