What are the disadvantages of an immediate denture?

The biggest disadvantage is the increased cost. Another disadvantage is that you cannot always see how the denture will look before the teeth are extracted and the immediate denture is inserted. Also, initially, an immediate denture does not always fit as accurately as a conventional denture, which is made after the tissues have healed for six to eight weeks following extractions, and without wearing a denture.

Why does an immediate denture cost more?

An immediate denture is initially more expensive than a conventional denture because additional time is needed for construction. A surgical stent (a guide for recontouring tissues after extraction) is often necessary and more follow-up visits are needed for adjustments and re-fitting. A soft temporary reline material will be utilized for re-fitting your denture when it becomes loose during the healing process. After the soft tissues have healed and shrinkage of the underlying bone has occurred (about six months following extractions), the immediate denture must be finalized by a permanent reline or new denture. During these visits you will be charged for continuous visits to relieve impingements on the tissues and eventually either a reline or a new denture, depending on your choice.

Your doctor will discuss with you the pros and cons of a permanent reline versus making a new denture, to help you make a decision. A major advantage to making a new denture is that the immediate denture can be a spare denture if the new denture breaks, is misplaced, or has to be repaired or relined in our adjacent laboratory. If the immediate denture is relined, it will usually need to be left overnight while it is permanently relined in the laboratory.

Is an immediate denture for everyone?

Not everyone is a candidate for an immediate denture. Some people may be advised against this treatment, due to general health conditions, or because of specific oral problems. On rare occasions and for many different reasons, a large amount of bone may be lost in the process of removing damaged teeth or due to periodontitis, which can alter the shape of the ridge to such an extent that it can make the denture extremely difficult to wear. In these cases implants may be suggested.

How long does it take to complete?

Four to five visits may be necessary for the fabrication phase of an immediate denture, plus any preliminary surgery.

The fabrication phase consists of impressions, bite records, tooth selection and a try-in if there are spaces and gaps already existing. This helps the dentist to register a more correct bite. On the day of delivery, you will be seen in oral surgery for extraction of the appropriate teeth, followed immediately by the insertion of the immediate denture.