Losing teeth can be tough, both physically and emotionally. Many people worry about being without teeth while waiting for dentures. The good news is that you don’t have to be toothless during this time. There are several options to keep your smile while your dentures are being made.
In this blog, we’ll explain what you can expect from the denture process and the solutions available so that you don’t have to go without teeth while waiting for dentures.
Understanding the Denture Process
Getting dentures is a step-by-step process that may take several weeks or months. If you need to have teeth removed, you will need to wait for 4 to 6 weeks for your gums and jawbone to heal.
During this time, your dentist will take impressions and measurements to create dentures that fit well and look natural.
However, you don’t have to go without teeth while you wait. Immediate dentures are a great option for those who want to keep their smile during the healing period.
What Are Immediate Dentures?
Immediate dentures are temporary dentures that are placed on the same day as your tooth extraction. These dentures provide you with teeth right away, so you don’t have to worry about being teeth-less.
They protect your gums, reduce bleeding, and help you get used to speaking and chewing with dentures until your permanent ones are getting ready!
Advantages of Immediate Dentures
Let’s look at the common advantages of immediate dentures:
- Immediate dentures help you maintain your smile and prevent the sagging of your facial muscles
- You won’t have to feel self-conscious during social interactions without teeth
- They act as a protective barrier for your gums while they heal
- Immediate dentures help you get used to wearing dentures early in the process
Disadvantages of Immediate Dentures
While they provide a great alternative solution during the waiting period, they have a few disadvantages as well, including:
- Immediate dentures can be more expensive because they may need more adjustments while your gums heal
- As your gums shrink during healing, the dentures may not fit as well and may need frequent adjustments
- These dentures are only a short-term solution and will need to be replaced after 6 to 8 months
Things to Consider During the Waiting Period
While waiting for your permanent dentures, it’s important to:
- Book regular checkups that will help make sure your gums are healing properly, preventing delays in your treatment.
- Follow your dentist’s advice on how to care for your gums to avoid infections or complications.
- Talk to your dentist about whether immediate dentures, partial dentures, or other options are best for you based on your needs and budget.
Final Takeaway
You don’t have to go without teeth while waiting for your permanent dentures. Immediate dentures offer a temporary solution that helps keep your smile and confidence intact. They can restore your smile and appearance until your permanent dentures are being made.
Speak with your dentist to find the best solution for your situation at Next Care Dental Houston. Call us at (713) 952-0522 to book an appointment.
