For many people, one of the most daunting aspects of needing teeth extracted is the prospect of being without teeth during the healing period. Immediate dentures solve this problem by being fitted on the same day as the extraction — so you never go without teeth.
How Do Immediate Dentures Work?
Impressions are taken before the extraction, while you still have your natural teeth. Your CDT or dental technician uses these impressions to make the denture in advance. On the day of extraction, your teeth are removed by your dentist and the pre-made denture is placed immediately. You leave the appointment with teeth already in place.
What Are the Advantages?
- No gap period — you’re never seen without teeth
- The denture acts as a bandage — protecting the extraction site and helping with healing
- Psychological comfort — the transition is much less stressful when you can go home with teeth
What Are the Disadvantages?
Immediate dentures require more adjustments than dentures made after healing, because the gums change shape significantly as they heal. Your immediate denture will likely need a reline after 3–6 months, once the gum tissue has settled. Some patients go on to have a new permanent denture made after the healing period.
The fit on day one won’t be perfect — this is expected and normal. Adjustments are made over the following weeks as healing progresses.
Who Coordinates the Treatment?
Immediate dentures require close coordination between your dentist (who performs the extractions) and your CDT (who makes the denture). If you’re planning extractions, talk to us at Cotswold Denture Clinic as early as possible so we can prepare your denture in advance and coordinate with your dental team. Contact us here.
Ideally at least 3–4 weeks before your planned extraction date. This gives us time to take impressions, make the denture and be ready for the day. Contact us as soon as you know extractions are planned.
The extraction itself is carried out under local anaesthetic by your dentist. Once the anaesthetic wears off, some soreness around the extraction site is normal. The denture sitting over the site may need adjustment in the days following — we’re available to help.
Immediate dentures typically involve more appointments and adjustments than a denture made after healing, so the overall cost may be higher. Contact us for a quote based on your specific situation.
