Immediate vs Complete Dentures

Conventional Dentures

Conventional dentures are made for a patient’s mouth cavity once the teeth have been removed. A dentist first removes the patient’s teeth and then lets the patient’s gums heal after the operation. Once the gums have healed, the dentist will cast a mold over the patient’s oral cavity. This molding helps shape the dentures. After the molding is set, the dentures are created to the mold and then fit into the patient’s mouth.

This process takes time. After the teeth removal, the patient waits about four weeks before casting the mold and another few weeks before the dentures are ready. Overall, with conventional dentures, a patient waits eight to twelve weeks without teeth. 

Immediate Dentures

Immediate dentures are placed in your mouth immediately following the extraction of your teeth, during the same visit as your teeth removal, so they serve as a bandage to control bleeding and protect gum tissue. Because more time is spent preparing them, immediate dentures cost more than conventional dentures. However, there are several advantages that may make them worth the cost:

• You won’t have to go out in public without teeth following your extractions.
• You can immediately start adjusting your speech to accommodate the dentures.
• It’s easier to duplicate the shape, color, and arrangement of your natural teeth while some are still present in your mouth.
• You’ll be able to chew and eat comfortably relatively soon, rather than eating without teeth.

As you heal, your gums will shrink and the shape of your mouth will change for several months. It’s important to keep up with regular dental visits during this time to make the necessary adjustments.

For a consultation with your dentist about different denture options and which is right for you, call our office at 210-807-7848.