When facing the prospect of tooth extraction, the idea of being left without teeth for any length of time can be anxiety-inducing. Immediate dentures from our Greater Jacksonville, FL, dentists offer a convenient and effective solution to this problem, allowing patients to leave their appointment with a full set of teeth on the same day as their extractions. 

Here are 4 essential things to know about this temporary oral appliance that helps maintain appearance, function, and aids in post-extraction recovery.

1. Immediate Dentures Provide Instant Results

One of the primary benefits of immediate dentures is that they are fitted and placed on the same day you’ve undergone tooth removal. This means you don’t have to experience the discomfort or embarrassment of living without teeth while your gums heal. Immediate dentures act as a temporary set of teeth, allowing you to maintain your smile and continue daily activities like speaking and eating.

They’re also custom-made based on impressions of your mouth taken before any teeth are extracted. Our dentists will craft the dentures to closely match the shape and alignment of your natural teeth, ensuring they fit comfortably and look as natural as possible. Although some denture adjustments may be needed as your gums heal and shrink, this option provides a seamless transition from natural teeth to full dentures.

2. They Aid in the Healing Process

Immediate dentures do more than just fill the gap left by missing teeth—they also help protect your gums during the initial healing period. After tooth extraction, the gums can be sensitive and prone to irritation. Immediate dentures act as a protective barrier, shielding the gums from food particles and reducing the risk of infection.

Wearing immediate dentures can also help minimize swelling and bleeding after extractions. The dentures provide gentle pressure on the extraction sites, promoting clot formation and helping along the healing process. By maintaining the shape of your gums and jaw, immediate dentures can prevent the facial muscles from sagging, preserving the structure of your face while your gums heal.

3. They Are a Temporary Solution

It’s important to understand that immediate dentures are not what you’ll always have. As your gums heal and shrink following tooth extraction, the fit of your immediate dentures will change. Over time, they may become loose and require adjustments to maintain comfort and functionality. Once the healing process is complete, you will receive your finalized pair from our dentists.

Removable dentures are crafted based on the final shape and size of your healed gums and jaw. They offer a more precise fit and improved comfort compared to immediate dentures. However, immediate dentures play a crucial role in bridging the gap between tooth extraction and the placement of standard dentures, ensuring you never have to go without teeth.

4. Proper Care Is Essential for Success

Caring for immediate dentures properly is important to ensure they function well and remain comfortable during the healing period. Like natural teeth, immediate dentures should be cleaned daily to remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup. You should remove dentures at night, unless you received implant-supported dentures, to give your gums a chance to rest, and they should be soaked in water or a denture solution to keep them clean and moist.

It’s also vital that you follow the instructions set by our dentists regarding adjustments and check-ups. Regular visits will allow our team to monitor your healing and make any necessary adjustments to your dentures. If you experience discomfort, looseness, or any other issues with your immediate dentures, contacting our dentists promptly can help prevent complications. 

Have Questions About Your Dentures?

Our dentists serving Jacksonville, Orange Park, and surrounding areas know that immediate dentures offer an invaluable solution for patients undergoing tooth extraction. If you’re interested in learning more about them or would like to discuss next steps for your smile, call one of our Quality Dentures & Implants locations today to request an appointment.