If you need teeth extracted in anticipation of your new dentures, you’re likely eager to get the process started so you can begin enjoying all the benefits of your newly restored smile. But not so fast! Here’s how long you can expect your recovery to take, and about how soon you’ll be able to begin wearing and using your durable, lifelike new prosthetics!
When Can I Get Dentures After My Tooth Extraction?
If you need any teeth removed before you get dentures, you’ll need to wait for your mouth to heal before they can be made. That’s because your gums can become very swollen following extraction, which could affect the fit of your final restoration. Thus, you’ll need to wait around six months or more before your healing is complete. Then, once your mouth is ready, your dentist can take impressions of your arches to send to the dental lab for your dentures to be made.
How Long Does It Take for Dentures to Be Made?
Once your dentist takes impressions of your arches, they can then be sent to the dental lab to custom craft your new prosthetics. This process can take several weeks or months. First, the lab will create a wax model of your jaws and send it back to your dentist where you will return to try it out. If it fits comfortably and you’re satisfied with what you see and feel, your dentist will send it back to the lab to continue the manufacturing process. If any adjustments are needed, they will make them and send the prosthetics back to your dentist for another fitting.
Under ideal conditions, this process will take another few weeks, and then you’ll return to your dentist’s office again to try on the final product. If that fits properly, you’ll be able to wear your new prosthetics home and begin getting used to them that day. If they still need adjustments, they’ll be sent back to the lab as many times as necessary to get a comfortable fit.
Getting Used to Your New Dentures
Once you receive your final dentures, it may take several weeks to a month or so to adjust to them. Initially, you may have difficulty speaking and eating while wearing them, so you’ll want to start with a soft diet and gradually work your way up to harder foods. You should also practice speaking by talking to yourself or reading aloud. You may even want to experiment with adhesive for the first month or so until you get used to them. Although they do have a small learning curve, the good news is that they should fit securely and comfortably for many years.
Remember, if you need teeth extracted prior to getting dentures, be prepared to wait at least six months before your new prosthetics can begin being crafted. While this may seem like a long time, it is important to ensure that your mouth has healed completely before the manufacturing process begins, so that your new smile looks, fits, and feels perfect for as long as possible!
About Our Practice
At Canyon Creek Family Dentistry of Richardson, we are proud to offer a variety of smile restoring treatments right here in house, including durable, lifelike dentures. If you’re missing one or more teeth and would like to learn more about how these dynamic prosthetics can restore the appearance and function of your smile, schedule a consultation with us today by visiting our website or calling 972-644-3800.