If you need dentures, you’re likely curious as to how long you’ll have to wait before you can finally eat, speak and smile comfortably again. The denture process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on your oral health, the type of dentures you need and whether you require tooth extractions or other procedures first.
Step 1: Your Initial Consultation
The process begins with a dental examination and consultation. Your dentist will evaluate your teeth, gums and jaw and discuss your goals. They’ll also determine whether complete, partial, immediate or implant-supported dentures are appropriate for you.
This appointment may take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of your situation.
Step 2: Preparing Your Mouth
If you still have teeth that need to be removed, extractions may be necessary before receiving conventional dentures. Your gums and underlying tissues may need time to heal after extraction.
Traditional dentures are often made after the gums have healed, which can take several weeks. However, immediate dentures can sometimes be placed on the same day your teeth are removed. Keep in mind that immediate dentures may require adjustments or replacement after your mouth changes during healing.
Step 3: Impressions and Measurements
Once your mouth is ready, your dentist will take impressions or digital scans of your mouth. These records help the dental laboratory create dentures that fit your unique anatomy.
You may also have a trial fitting, where your dentist evaluates the denture’s fit, appearance and bite before the final appliance is completed.
Step 4: Your Dentures Are Made
The laboratory typically needs some time to manufacture your dentures. The exact timeline varies based on the type of denture, laboratory and complexity of the case. Your dentist will let you know when your final appliance is expected to be ready.
Step 5: Fitting and Adjustments
Once your dentures arrive, your dentist will place them and check their fit. Minor adjustments are common, especially when you’re first getting used to a new denture.
Your mouth may need time to adapt. You may initially experience increased saliva, mild soreness or difficulty speaking certain words. These issues often improve as you practice wearing your dentures.
How Long Does the Entire Process Take?
For conventional dentures, the overall process can take several weeks to a few months, particularly when extractions and healing are involved. Immediate dentures can provide teeth sooner, but they may require additional adjustments as your mouth heals.
Implant-supported dentures generally take longer because implants need time to integrate with the jawbone before the final restoration is placed.
Your dentist can provide a more specific timeline after evaluating your needs. Although getting dentures can take time, careful planning and proper fitting can help ensure your new smile is comfortable, functional and natural-looking.
About the Author
After gaining more than a decade of experience as a dentist in Farmington Hills, Dr. Reem Saywa has concluded that simply helping her patients is the best part of her job. She is a graduate of the University of Detroit Mercy Dental School and is still learning through yearly continuing education courses. Dr. Saywa invites you to Radiant Dental if you’re interested in dentures made from comfortable, customizable materials and flexible financing to make your treatment more affordable. Contact us online for more information and scheduling or call (248) 855-4850.
