They say good things come to those who wait, but sometimes it can be hard to be patient, especially when you’re waiting for something exciting like new dentures! After all, who wouldn’t want to have a beautiful, healthy-looking smile as soon as possible?
If you’re wondering when you can expect your dentures to be ready, here’s an approximate timeline to help give you a better idea.
How Long Does It Take?
Generally speaking, the entire process of obtaining new dentures takes multiple appointments over the course of months. This will of course depend on whether you need teeth removed, your healing time, and what type of dentures you are getting.
The Stages of The Denture Process
When you order new dentures, you will most likely need to complete all or some of the following steps.
- Dental examination: Your dentist will evaluate your jaw and any remaining teeth. He or she may determine that you need teeth removed, or you may be a suitable candidate for a partial denture.
- Extraction: If your dentist has decided that you need any extractions, those teeth will be removed so that molds of your jaw can be made. Typically, it takes about six to eight weeks for your gums to heal following extraction.
- Impressions: Once your gums are healed, your dentist can make impressions of your mouth so your dentures fit securely. This should only take a few minutes.
- Bite check: Around an hour or so after your impressions are done, your dentist will do a bite check with wax blocks. At this time, you will choose the shape, size and color of your new teeth
- “Try In”: Once your impressions are made, they are sent off to the manufacturer to make your new dentures. Within a few days, a preliminary set of dentures will be set in wax and sent back to your dentist for you to try before the permanent ones are complete. At this time, you can make changes or greenlight the first model.
- Manufacturing. Once you have approved your denture model, the final pair can be made. This process can take anywhere from six weeks to three months.
Immediate Dentures
In some cases, patients may be a good candidate for immediate dentures. These are great if you want something the same day as your extractions, or if you need temporary teeth until your permanent dentures are ready. Immediate dentures are made from a mold of your mouth prior to extraction but will require you to have your back molars removed six to eight weeks in advance.
Implant Dentures
Implant dentures combine the secure fit of dental implants with the convenience of dentures. These prosthetics are attached to your jawbone via the same type of screws used for implants and can only be removed by your dentist. The benefits are a better fit, easier care, and less maintenance than traditional dentures.
They do take a bit longer to receive than other types of prosthetics, as they require time to not only manufacture, but to also surgically attach the posts to your jaw and successfully heal before the denture is attached.
Whether you’re looking for same-day, traditional, or implant dentures, timelines will vary. Your dentist can give you a more accurate idea of how long the entire process takes from start to finish.
About Our Practice
Care 32 Dental of Fort Worth is proud to provide a variety of dental services that focus on the patient as an individual. We truly take the time to get to know you and treat your mouth based on what’s best for you.
If you need new dentures, visit our website and schedule an appointment with our team today, or give us a call at 817-904-4010.