Immediate Denture

What is it and how is it done? We hope that this information will help to explain the concepts and clear up any of the questions you might have regarding this type of denture.

Let me explain what an immediate denture is by using an example. Suppose, for instance, that you have eight (8) remaining upper teeth. These teeth are, unfortunately, poor and cannot be utilized in any way to support a new denture. If you were to have a traditional denture made, it would be necessary to have all of these teeth extracted first, the bone and gums would have to heal and then a denture could be fabricated. This process could take several months, if not longer, and for that time period you would have to go around with out any teeth.

In order to avoid this type of problem, we utilize an Immediate Denture technique. This involves taking impressions of your mouth while your natural teeth are still present. At the same time, when your teeth are extracted, we have a denture ready to be inserted. In this way, you never have to walk around without. Immediate Dentures do present certain situations, which I would like to list for you.

1. Since we are unable to try in the denture prior to extracting your natural teeth, certain aesthetic compromises may have to be made. This should not present any significant problem, however, your aesthetic result should be more than satisfactory.
2. Since our goal is for you to never be without teeth, your new denture will be inserted immediately after the extraction of your remaining teeth. This may seem odd, but it is perfectly normal. Typically, after the extraction of natural teeth, there may be some swelling. By placing your denture in immediately, this swelling will be kept to a minimum. If you did not place the denture in immediately, the swelling that occurs might not allow you to wear your denture until the swelling subsided 7 to 10 days later.
3. It is very important that you follow the post-operative instructions from our office or the oral surgeon very carefully. You must wear your new immediate denture after the surgery, without removing it. This will help to control the swelling. After 24 hours they may be removed cleaned, and your mouth rinsed then put right back in. An ideal oral rinse to use is called Amonsan, and is available at your local Pharmacy. You may also use a salt-water solution -1/2 teaspoon of salt in a warm glass of water. Rinse for approximately 1 minute.
4. Once total healing has occurred, after approximately three (3-6) months, you will need a permanent reline of your existing denture or the fabrication of an entirely new denture. If a permanent reline is possible, it will be ready the same day, but you must make plans to be with out them for approximately 6-7 hours. If a new one is to be made, we will then be able to make any aesthetic and phonetic changes that you want within the limits of denture design. You will then be able to use the immediate denture as a spare (emergency) denture. This can sure come in handy if your new denture should break and need to be repaired.

Please remember that immediate dentures are constructed to fit your mouth when the natural teeth are extracted. Appointments will be given to you to visit our office at approximately 30 and 90 days after the extractions. Temporary soft Liners will be added to the denture at these visits in order to compensate for the shrinkage and the changes in the bone. This will make them tighter and more comfortable. These temporary soft liners will be done at no charge along with any adjustments to make them comfortable.