Dentures are the standard method to replace a mouth full of missing teeth. They sit over your gums to refurbish your smile so that you can eat and speak more normally after experiencing tooth loss. Many patients are eager to be fitted for their dentures so they can resume regular life, but in many cases, your dentist may need to remove one or more teeth first for them to fit properly. Because of this, you’ll have to wait longer to have your dentures created. But how long does it take, and why? If you have questions about the typical timeline, keep reading to find out more!
Why Must I Wait for Dentures After a Tooth Extraction?
If your dentist needed to pull pearly whites before fitting you for dentures, or if they needed to insert support rods for implant dentures, then it’s imperative to give your body time to heal. You will have undergone a surgical procedure like any other that requires some recovery time. In general, you can expect to wait about 6 months for your gums to heal fully.
For them to be most effective, your dentures need to fit like a glove. That means your dentist won’t fit you for them immediately post-procedure. Your gums are too swollen and your remaining teeth will likely shift to fill in the empty space. Everyone’s circumstances are unique, however, and only your dentist can give you an accurate estimation based on your condition.
What are Immediate Dentures?
In the meantime, you’ll probably receive immediate dentures to wear during recovery. In some cases, your dentist will have you fitted for these before the extraction procedure to have them ready for you once it’s completed. In others, you’ll have to wait 6 to 8 weeks before receiving temporary dentures.
They provide the same benefits as standard dentures but aren’t intended to be worn for more than a few months, and will grow looser in time as you heal. As inflammation dissipates over time and your teeth begin to move, they will no longer fit properly.
How Long Before I Receive Permanent Dentures?
Your dentist will have you return after your mouth has healed completely. Once you’ve been fitted and depending on their dental technology, they will either create your dentures on-site or send your information to a lab to be made. It may require a few extra visits to ensure the fit is correct before your dentures are finalized. This process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, so be sure to ask your dentist what to expect.
Once all is said and done, you’ll have a beautifully refurbished smile that will last for years!
About the Practice
At Elmbrook Family Dental, patients of all ages benefit from a team of experts who provide a full range of dental services. The entire team is dedicated to ongoing education in the latest technology and techniques so that you’re sure to receive top-of-the-line care. Their dental lab utilizes modern materials to create the most lifelike prosthetics. If you’re interested in a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (262) 784-7201.