Immediate Dentures
Dentures available for immediate use
At Cedar Grove Dental Group, we offer immediate dentures, also known as temporary dentures, to help patients quickly correct missing or extracted teeth. This procedure allows patients to benefit from the form and function of dentures right away, serving as an alternative to conventional dentures that can be placed immediately after a tooth extraction. Immediate dentures are often used as placeholders while waiting for conventional dentures to be made.
If you are in Cedar Grove, NJ or the surrounding area and need to address missing teeth, do not hesitate to contact us at (973) 857-0567 to schedule an appointment and find out if immediate dentures are the right solution for you.
Differences Between Immediate Dentures and Complete Dentures
Both conventional complete dentures and immediate dentures are individually crafted for patients using a mold of their mouth. Full dentures are made after tooth extraction, while immediate dentures are made before the extraction. Immediate dentures may be prepared in advance, but their fit may not be perfect as the gums and jaw can change shape during the healing process. This may require additional adjustments and can also make immediate dentures more expensive in some cases.
“Complete dentures are molded to the mouth after tooth extraction, and immediate dentures are molded before the extraction.”
When should you think about getting immediate dentures?
Immediate dentures are often chosen by patients who find it inconvenient, damaging, or painful to live without teeth while waiting for permanent dentures. For instance, individuals with sensitive teeth may opt for temporary dentures after an extraction to protect their remaining teeth and reduce pressure while eating. According to the Foundation for Oral Rehabilitation, the main reasons for getting immediate dentures are aesthetic and social, as many people prefer not to be without teeth while waiting for complete dentures or implants. Immediate dentures offer a solution to this need.
“A patient may opt for immediate dentures when it would be inconvenient, damaging, or painful to live without teeth.”
The Process of Getting Immediate Dentures
The process of receiving immediate dentures is comparable to that of traditional dentures, as the dentist takes a mold of the mouth to create the dentures. However, the main difference lies in the timing of when it occurs - before the tooth extraction. The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics states that it may require four to five visits to complete the fabrication process, which includes making impressions, choosing teeth, and sometimes trying on the back teeth.
“The process of getting immediate dentures is similar in many ways to getting conventional dentures.”
Benefits of Immediate Dentures
At Cedar Grove Dental Group, we offer immediate dentures as a solution to prevent patients from being without teeth for a prolonged period. Our team can provide personalized advice on the advantages and disadvantages of temporary dentures for each individual. Here are a few reasons why someone might opt for immediate dentures:
- Instant Results: One of the biggest advantages for many patients is the immediate availability of dentures, eliminating the wait time usually required for permanent denture fabrication. This allows patients to avoid going without a smile for several weeks.
- Comfort Following Extraction: Temporary dentures provide protection for sensitive teeth or gums, making the recovery period after extraction more comfortable. However, regular adjustments are necessary to maintain comfort.
- Direct Duplication of Natural Teeth: Dentists can more accurately replicate the shape, color, and arrangement of natural teeth while some are still present, especially for complete immediate dentures. This is a significant benefit for patients who wish to preserve the quality of their smiles.
“Immediate dentures give patients an option for avoiding going without teeth for an extended time.”
Aftercare for Treatment
After receiving immediate dentures, it is important to follow post-treatment practices for care and maintenance to ensure they stay in place and function properly. Initially, dentures should be kept in the mouth for 24-48 hours to allow the underlying tissues to heal. After this period, dentures should be removed for cleaning and during sleep.
To keep dentures clean and well-maintained, store them in a cup or container filled with clean, cold water. They can also be cleaned with salt water rinses. Make sure to clean the mouth before inserting the dentures. Regular dental checkups are essential to ensure the dentures fit properly.
- Instant Results: One of the biggest advantages for many patients is the immediate availability of dentures, eliminating the wait time usually required for permanent denture fabrication. This allows patients to avoid going without a smile for several weeks.
- Comfort Following Extraction: Temporary dentures provide protection for sensitive teeth or gums, making the recovery period after extraction more comfortable. However, regular adjustments are necessary to maintain comfort.
- Direct Duplication of Natural Teeth: Dentists can more accurately replicate the shape, color, and arrangement of natural teeth while some are still present, especially for complete immediate dentures. This is a significant benefit for patients who wish to preserve the quality of their smiles.
