When first getting full dentures, it’s important to realize that the process will take multiple steps. In particular, any teeth that are still in the arch will have to be removed. So, once the necessary tooth extractions have been performed, when will you be able to get dentures? The answer is different for every patient, but your dentist can give you an idea of what the timeline will look like.
When Will You Be Able to Get Dentures After Tooth Extraction?
Some people receive their first dentures on the same day that they have their teeth extracted. These are known as “immediate dentures.” They can often seem like the ideal choice since getting them means you won’t have to go without teeth for a significant amount of time. However, trying to learn to bite and chew with dentures while your gums are healing can be difficult.
Your other option is to wait until your gums have recovered to receive your first dentures. This can take around 6 to 8 weeks. You won’t have to worry about adjusting to your prosthesis while your gums are still sore, but of course, the tradeoff is that you won’t have any teeth and therefore will be much more limited when it comes to eating and speaking.
Both approaches to getting dentures after tooth extraction have their own pros and cons to consider. You should discuss your options with your dentist and see what they recommend before you make any decisions.
What If You Get Dental Implants?
Are you planning on having your dentures attached to dental implants? If so, it’s important to realize that this can significantly add to the wait time for new teeth. In addition to the recovery period after tooth extraction, you’ll also need to factor in the amount of time it will take for your dental implant posts to fuse with your jaw, which will often be between three to six months.
Are Dentures Worth the Wait?
Even if you end up needing to wait a while to receive dentures, you can rest assured that it will be worthwhile in the end, as your new prosthesis will allow you to:
- Stay healthy by eating all kinds of foods.
- Maintain an attractive, confident smile.
- Enunciate clearly so that you don’t have trouble being understood while speaking.
If you’re interested in getting dentures but need to have your teeth removed first, talk to your dentist. They can give you a better idea of what the process will look like, and they can answer any questions you might have. Once you’ve made a decision, you can start looking forward to a reliable new smile.
About the Author
Dr. Rob McVety went to the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and completed a General Practice Residency at the Veterans Hospital in Denver, CO. He has a completely patient-focused approach to dentistry. The dentures he provides are designed to be as comfortable and lifelike as possible. To schedule a consultation with Dr. McVety at Casco Bay Smiles in Falmouth, visit his website or call (207) 517-7008.