A complete denture can be either “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed (usually takes 4 to 6 weeks). During this time, the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made.
What does this mean for me? Dental patients looking for a full-mouth restoration are wise to shop around and, ask the important questions of each prospective dental clinic: questions such as costs for extractions, costs for full-mouth restoration, what materials are used, and what can I expect during my “free” consultation. Without these answers, it’s impossible to make an informed decision about your dental future. Renew also suggests you get a second opinion. Just like you’d want a second opinion if you were going to make a large medical decision, it is important to go to multiple appointments and see where you feel comfortable. We are more than happy to be a resource in your journey so please feel free to email us or call us and we can walk you through our option and other options out there. Knowledge is power!
An immediate full denture is inserted immediately after the remaining teeth are removed. (Your dentist takes measurements and makes models of your jaw during a prior visit.) While immediate dentures offer the benefit of never having to be without your teeth, they must be relined several months after being inserted. The reason is that the bone supporting the teeth reshapes as it heals, causing the denture to become loose.
Later that afternoon I came back to have 16 teeth extracted. I got to the office and waited about 30 minutes before I was seen. I got to the back and began injections. After this I went to a full blown panic attack and came close to passing out. The one positive is the dentist who was working on me took it in stride. I wasn't treated disrespectfully and after about 30 minutes the panic subsided and she was able to finish my injections and begin pulling teeth.
