Initial consultation & assessment – Our dental prosthetist will evaluate your oral health and discuss your specific needs and expectations. A treatment plan and timeline is established for the procedure.

Impressions – Your prosthetist will work carefully to take accurate impressions and measurements of your mouth to allow the best possible outcome for your immediate denture treatment.

Custom denture creation – The new dentures are made and prepared for collection. The immediate dentures need to be available when the teeth are extracted by the dentist or surgeon.

Tooth extraction and immediate fit – Your dentist or oral surgeon will carefully remove your teeth, and your new dentures are placed in your mouth immediately after the teeth are extracted. Fitting the dentures immediately after the extractions helps to reduce swelling of the gum, and covers the extraction site, reducing the risk of an infection, or “dry socket’.

Benefits of immediate dentures:

• No waiting period – avoid the inconvenience of living without teeth while your gums heal.
• Gum protection – immediate dentures act as a protective cover for your gums after extraction to help prevent infection and dry socket.
• Aesthetic appeal – maintain your smile and appearance immediately after tooth removal.
• Smooth transition – helps you get accustomed to wearing dentures right away.

After 24 hours, your dentist will typically remove the dentures, check your healing progress, and advise you on further care. You will likely need adjustments to the dentures as the gums continue to heal.

If you remove the dentures yourself after 24 hours, a saltwater rinse is commonly
recommended to promote healing and prevent infection.

Saltwater rinse

• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of warm water

Instructions:

1. Dissolve the salt completely in the warm water.
2. Gently swish the solution around your mouth for about 30 seconds, avoiding vigorous rinsing.
3. Spit out the solution carefully; do not swallow.
4. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day, especially after meals, for the first few days after
extraction.

Note:

Wait at least 24 hours after the extraction before using a saltwater rinse, and avoid spitting forcefully to prevent dislodging the clot in the extraction site.

Do not be tempted to leave the denture out after extractions. The tissue may swell without the denture to contain it and you will be unable to fit the denture on the swollen tissue. Ensure you wear the denture as much as possible post extraction and remove only to clean the denture and do the salt rinse.

How often should I have my dentures checked?

The frequency of denture reviews will depend on your individual needs. In general, it’s recommended that you have your dentures checked at least once a year. During the check-up we will examine your dentures for any signs of wear or damage, evaluate their fit and function, and clean them thoroughly to ensure that your dentures are fitting properly and not causing any discomfort or irritation. However, if you experience any changes in your oral health, or notice any problems with your dentures (such as sore spots, difficulty chewing or speaking, or a loose fit), you should schedule follow up appointment as soon as possible.