Immediate dentures are a modern dental solution that allows patients to receive a temporary, aesthetically pleasing, and functional denture immediately after tooth extraction. This procedure is ideal for those who prefer not to live with missing teeth or who plan to get a permanent prosthesis later on. While immediate dentures are a temporary solution, they serve as the first step toward permanent tooth replacement, offering comfort and aesthetic appeal throughout the healing period.
What is an Immediate Denture?
An immediate denture is a temporary prosthesis placed in the space left by extracted teeth, often on the same day as the extraction. This type of denture is pre-made using impressions and measurements of the patient’s mouth before the tooth extraction, ensuring the patient is not left without teeth. Its primary purpose is to provide a temporary solution while the mouth and gums heal, preparing for a permanent denture, fixed bridge, implants, or other final restoration options.
Types of Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures come in various types, depending on the extent of tooth loss, the patient’s needs, and general dental health:
- Partial Immediate Denture: Recommended for patients who are missing a few teeth and need a temporary replacement.
- Full Immediate Denture: Suitable for patients having all teeth removed and needing a complete, immediate denture.
- Temporary Denture Before Implants: Often provided to patients planning to receive implants, offering an interim solution during the healing phase.
How is an Immediate Denture Made?
The creation of an immediate denture involves several steps focused on comfort and aesthetics. These dentures are prepared in advance, even before tooth extraction, with impressions and planning taking place beforehand.
- Consultation and Planning: The process begins with a consultation where the dentist assesses the condition of the teeth and gums. The treatment plan is discussed, covering the immediate denture and future options for permanent restoration.
- Impression Taking: The dentist takes an impression of the teeth and jaw before extraction. This mold is used to create the immediate denture, ensuring a precise fit.
- Denture Creation: The impression is sent to dental technicians who craft the immediate denture according to the patient’s needs.
- Tooth Extraction and Denture Placement: On the day of extraction, the immediate denture is placed directly afterward, allowing the patient to leave with a functional and aesthetically pleasing prosthesis.
- Follow-Up Adjustments: As healing progresses, minor adjustments may be needed to ensure the denture remains comfortable and well-fitted. Regular check-ups allow the dentist to make any necessary adjustments.
Benefits of Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures offer numerous advantages, making them a popular choice for patients during the interim period following tooth extraction. These benefits are significant both aesthetically and in terms of overall oral health.
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Instant Solution for Tooth Loss
Immediate dentures provide an immediate replacement for missing teeth, ensuring the patient is not left toothless. This is crucial for aesthetic confidence and social interactions, allowing the patient to maintain a normal lifestyle, including eating, speaking, and smiling confidently.
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Aesthetic Benefits
Immediate dentures provide an aesthetically pleasing solution that closely resembles natural teeth. Modern materials and techniques allow for a natural-looking immediate denture that blends seamlessly.
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Functional Support
Beyond aesthetics, immediate dentures help maintain dental functions such as eating and speaking. They also support the jaw structure and prevent gum recession.
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Protection for Gums and Oral Structure
Following extractions, the gums and surrounding bone tissue may recede. Immediate dentures help protect the gums and underlying bone, preserving the structure of the mouth—a key factor for patients planning on future implants or fixed dentures.
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Psychological Benefits
Missing teeth can be distressing for many patients. Immediate dentures reduce the psychological impact of tooth loss, boosting confidence by providing an instant solution.
Who Should Consider an Immediate Denture?
Immediate dentures are especially recommended for patients who prefer not to be without teeth for an extended period. Though generally a temporary solution, many find them comfortable and aesthetically satisfying.
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Patients Missing Multiple Teeth
Immediate dentures are particularly helpful for patients who need multiple extractions or a full arch replacement, providing an immediate solution without a toothless period.
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Complete Denture Replacement
Patients planning a complete denture replacement can also benefit from an immediate denture, ensuring they have teeth immediately after the full arch is extracted.
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Pre-Implant Patients
Immediate dentures are ideal for patients planning implants but who need to wait for healing. The immediate denture bridges this period, ensuring no gaps during the transition.
Care for Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures require careful hygiene and maintenance to ensure they remain comfortable and aesthetically pleasing over time. Proper cleaning and regular dental check-ups help maintain the fit and appearance of the denture throughout the healing process.
Immediate Dentures at Újbuda Medical Dental
At Újbuda Medical Dental, we provide professional, personalized solutions for immediate dentures. Our expert dentists are experienced in prosthetic dentistry and will ensure that your immediate denture offers both comfort and a natural look.
Take the first step toward a new smile! Visit Újbuda Medical Dental in Budapest’s 11th district, Fehérvári Road, and book a consultation to learn more about immediate dentures.