Dentures are one of the most affordable options for replacing missing teeth.  But conventional dentures (also called complete dentures) require a period of living with no teeth, which makes them inconvenient for anyone with a career, a busy social life, or anything else that can’t be put on hold for the months-long waiting period. Immediate dentures, on the other hand, are placed the same day your teeth are extracted so you don’t have to go a single day with no teeth. Read on for more information about immediate dentures vs. conventional dentures.

 

Complete dentures process

The main difference between complete dentures and immediate dentures is the timing of the fabrication process. Complete dentures involve the fabrication of dentures after tooth extraction surgery. Teeth extraction is the first step, but the molding process cannot start right away. It has to wait until your tissue has had at least 4 to 6 weeks to heal from the extraction.  Only then can we cast a mold over your oral cavity to help shape the dentures and create a nice firm fit in your mouth. Once the mold is made, the dentures are fabricated, a process that takes another 4 to 6 weeks. By the time the dentures are made, relatively little adjustment should be needed—complete dentures typically result in a close fit the first time.

 

One of the biggest disadvantages of conventional dentures, however, is that the process involves up to 12 weeks with no teeth.  Immediate dentures have eliminated that problem altogether.

 

Immediate denture process

The first step of the immediate denture process is to make impressions of existing teeth and gums and bite records. This is done before the extraction, while the remaining teeth are still in place, in order to ensure the accurate duplication of the remaining teeth. This means your new teeth will closely resemble your old teeth. Once the impressions are done, if complete immediate dentures are being made, the back teeth will be extracted 6 to 8 weeks prior to the rest of the teeth. The extraction site in the back heals while the new dentures are fabricated. Once the immediate dentures are ready, the back teeth can then be tried on and adjusted for a perfect fit. If the immediate dentures are partial, there is no need to wait. At the extraction appointment, the new immediate dentures are inserted, and the smile is restored—all in a single day!

 

Immediate denture aftercare

After your immediate dentures have been inserted, it’s important to follow all post-procedure instructions closely. At BioDental Care, we will give you clear pre- and post-procedure instructions, but generally, once you have your new dentures, we’ll instruct you to:

  • Keep your dentures in for the first 24 hours to help reduce bleeding and swelling
  • Apply an ice pack in 15-minute sessions for the first 24 hours
  • Use moist heat for the next 24 hours
  • Avoid carbonated beverages and straws for 72 hours
  • Do not smoke
  • Eat soft and nutritious foods for the first several days
  • Take your medication as prescribed

Be sure to attend all follow-up appointments so we can monitor your healing progress and keep an eye out for any potential complications. Your gums and bones will shrink back and frequent adjustments will be needed over the first six months or so, in order to keep your dentures snug and comfortable. Once the healing process has completed, we’ll perform a permanent refitting (a reline) to ensure that your dentures fit properly and comfortably. In some cases, depending on the amount of bone and tissue shrinkage, you may need a new set of dentures at the six-month mark in order to ensure maximum comfort.

 

Immediate dentures do cost more than complete dentures, as the initial fabrication requires significantly more time than a conventional denture molding. A surgical stent, reline material, additional follow-up visits for adjustment, and a second set of dentures will also add to the cost. But for those who want a seamless transition to dentures without interruption to their lives, immediate dentures are worth every penny. And if you come to BioDental Care in Tijuana for your immediate dentures, you’ll not only get exceptional service and the highest quality dentures, but you’ll also get it for a fraction of what you’d pay in the United States.

 

Complete and immediate dentures at BioDental Care in Tijuana

At BioDental Care, we offer superior dental services at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for complete dentures, immediate dentures, or other dental services, we are committed to ensuring your comfort and satisfaction every step of the way. Our office is conveniently located in the upscale business district of Tijuana, surrounded by amazing restaurants, shopping malls, and banks/ATMs for convenience and fun. We even provide our patients with a free U.S. shuttle to get you to and from San Diego without hassle. If you’re interested in learning more about our services or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today by calling (619) 754-8508.