Losing teeth as an adult can feel overwhelming, but immediate dentures offer a swift solution to restore your smile and oral functionality. While this transition can be a relief, it also comes with a learning curve in care and maintenance. With proper handling and upkeep, your immediate dentures can serve you well throughout the healing process.
Immediate dentures are one of the best possible solutions for quickly fixing your multi-dollar smile. They boost your confidence and restore your oral function to a greater extent. As the owner of your dentures, it’s essential to stay disciplined in their care and maintenance to ensure their longevity and functionality.
In this article, let’s delve deeper into how you should be caring for your immediate dentures.
What are Immediate Dentures?
Immediate dentures are temporary dental prosthetics fitted on the same day as tooth extraction. They are created in advance using impressions of your natural teeth, ensuring you never have to go without teeth while your gums heal.
These dentures serve functional and aesthetic purposes. They help you maintain a confident smile and normal oral function during healing, typically lasting 4–6 months.
Who is Eligible for an Immediate Denture?
Immediate partial denture are recommended only if you are:
- Undergoing a complete tooth extraction and are desirous of avoiding a period without teeth.
- You are dealing with severe dental health issues where most of your teeth are beyond the scope of being saved and require an extraction.
- You have lost teeth due to excessive bone loss or other gum issues.
- You seek a dental health care option offering an immediate cosmetic makeover after tooth extraction.
The Process of Getting an Immediate Denture
Here are key stages your dentist will perform to replace your damaged tooth with immediate dentures:
- An initial consultation is needed to identify your issues and feelings and plan a treatment plan
- Impressions and measurements for creating new teeth
- Developing immediate dentures
- Tooth extraction under local anesthesia
- Insertion or fitting of dentures
- Caring and other adjustments post-insertion
Immediate dentures are temporary solutions, generally worn for 6 to 8 months until permanent denture are prepared.
Tips and Tricks for Caring and Maintaining Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures are an excellent option for quickly replacing missing teeth. Here are some essential tips and tricks to help you care for and maintain them effectively:
1. Handle With Care
Although immediate dentures are sturdy, they can still break if dropped. To prevent damage, always handle them over a soft surface, such as a folded towel or water-filled basin.
2. Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions
Your dentist will provide personalized aftercare instructions tailored to your specific needs. Adhering to these guidelines ensures optimal healing and minimizes the risk of complications.
3. Clean Your Dentures Daily
Brush your dentures gently using a soft-bristled brush and denture-friendly cleanser. Refrain from using regular toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and harm the surface of the dentures.
4. Soak Overnight
When not in use, place your dentures in a denture cleansing solution or water to keep them hydrated and maintain their shape. Follow your dentist’s recommendations for the appropriate soaking solution.
5. Rinse After Meals
Immediate denture can trap food particles, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and gum irritation. Rinse them thoroughly under running water after every meal to keep them clean.
6. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
Foods like nuts, caramel, and hard candies can damage your dentures or cause them to dislodge. Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods, especially during the initial adjustment period.
7. Attend Regular Follow-Ups
Your gums and jawbone change shape as they heal. Regular dental visits allow your dentist to adjust your dentures for a comfortable fit and ensure your oral health is on track.
Importance of Immediate Denture Care
Daily care of your immediate dentures is as essential as caring for your body. This ensures good oral health and a longer-lasting dental prosthesis. The initial healing phase is particularly sensitive, as these are immediately fitted post-extraction.
Immediate dentures require periodic adjustments and “relining,” in which material is added to the inside of the denture to accommodate healing and reduce swelling as the mouth adjusts.
Proper care helps:
- Prevent gum irritation and infections.
- Reduce the risk of plaque and tartar buildup.
- Maintain the structural integrity of the dentures.
- Ensure a smooth transition to permanent dentures.
Are There Any Risks Associated with Immediate Dentures?
Although immediate dentures play a critical role in restoring oral function and your radiant smile, there are specific concerns to keep in mind:
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Oral Health Concerns
If you don’t brush your teeth daily, excessive plaque buildup around your dentures may result in gum disease. Oral health issues can also cause bad breath and infections.
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Discomfort and Irritation
Poorly fitted or sharp dentures can cause gum soreness and discomfort, making it difficult to wear them comfortably.
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Bone Health
Immediate dentures support the underlying bone structure. Neglecting a proper care regime for them may accelerate the loss of your bone. This may further alter your facial appearance and necessitate premature adjustments.
Common Concerns About Immediate Dentures
Can Immediate Dentures Be Permanent?
Immediate dentures are temporary and designed for short-term use during the healing process. Over time, gum and bone structure changes may cause them to fit poorly. Permanent dentures, custom-fitted after your gums have healed, offer a more durable and comfortable long-term solution.
How Much Do Immediate Dentures Cost?
The cost of immediate dentures in the United States typically ranges from $1,700 to $4,000, depending on factors like:
- The number of teeth being replace.
- Materials used in the dentures.
- The dentist’s expertise and location.
Consult your dentist for a cost estimate based on your specific needs.
Conclusion
Proper care, hygiene, and maintenance are imperative for the longevity of your immediate denture. Even though they are not your real teeth, it is still important to handle them with care. Visit your dentist frequently for recommended adjustments and professional guidance.
At RiverRock Dental, we’re here to guide you through every step of your denture journey. If you’re considering same day dentures, contact our expert dentist in Shakopee for personalized care and advice.
Book a consultation with us or call us at (952) 445-5556
