Immediate Denture
“An immediate denture means you never have to go a single day without teeth — placed the same day your extractions are completed.”
What Is an Immediate Denture?
An immediate denture is a complete or partial denture fabricated before your teeth are extracted and inserted into your mouth immediately after the extractions are completed. Unlike a conventional denture — which requires waiting 8–12 weeks for gum healing — an immediate denture allows you to leave the office with a full set of teeth on the same day.
Who Is an Immediate Denture For?
Patients having all remaining teeth extracted
Anyone who cannot be without teeth for social or professional reasons
Patients who want to transition to a denture gradually
Those planning eventual implant-supported restoration
Advantages of Immediate Dentures
No toothless period — socially and professionally important for many patients
Protects extraction sites and acts as a bandage during early healing
Helps maintain facial muscle tone and lip support
Allows you to adapt to dentures gradually during the healing process
Provides a preview of your eventual denture appearance
Important Limitations to Understand
An immediate denture is a transitional appliance, not a permanent solution:
Fabricated from impressions taken before extractions — fit is an approximation
As gums and bone heal and shrink over 3 to 6 months, the denture will become loose
Relining is required — typically at 3–6 months post-extraction
A new permanent denture is often recommended after healing is complete (12 months)
Requires more frequent adjustment visits during the healing period
What to Expect — Process
Before Extractions
Impressions taken while teeth are still present
Immediate denture fabricated by dental laboratory
Tooth shade and shape selected
Extraction Day
Remaining teeth extracted
Immediate denture inserted directly
Post-operative instructions provided
Do not remove the denture for the first 24 hours — it acts as a pressure dressing
Healing Period (First 3–6 Months)
Swelling and tissue changes are normal
Regular adjustment appointments as needed
Soft diet recommended initially
Denture adhesive may be helpful as fit changes
Reline (3–6 Months)
Once gums are sufficiently healed, the denture is relined to improve fit
This may be a chairside or laboratory reline depending on the degree of change
Final Denture (12 Months)
After complete healing, a new permanent denture is often recommended
This denture is fabricated with full benefit of healed, stable ridges for an optimal fit