Temporary dentures (also called immediate or healing dentures) are a great option for people who need a tooth extraction before their permanent dentures are ready. Because temporary dentures are made from records that are taken before your teeth are extracted, they may not fit very well, but you can get them a lot sooner—often the same day as your tooth extraction!
Read on for answers to your most common questions about temporary dentures.
What are Temporary Dentures?
Like permanent dentures, temporary dentures are a replacement for teeth you may have lost due to gum disease, tooth decay, or injury. They are most commonly used as a placeholder immediately following a tooth extraction while you wait for your permanent dentures to be made (which can sometimes take several months). Also, like permanent dentures, temporary dentures can be a partial or complete set of removable false teeth.
What do Temporary Dentures Look and Feel Like?
Temporary dentures still look like natural teeth. You will often be able to choose the color and material of your same-day dentures to ensure they look as natural as possible.
Because they are made prior to your tooth extraction and not custom fitted to your teeth and mouth, immediate dentures may also feel a little thicker than permanent dentures. But some of that feeling is often due in part to something “foreign” in your mouth. Temporary dentures are not as sharp as permanent dentures, so you may also experience some difficulty chewing as you become more accustomed to them.
Once you receive your permanent dentures you will be more used to wearing dentures in general and they will be more comfortable because they are specifically made to fit your teeth.
What is the Difference between Temporary & Permanent Dentures?
| Temporary Dentures vs Permanent Dentures | ||
| Temporary/Immediate | Permanent | |
| Can be partial | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Can be complete | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Same day | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Custom-fitted to your mouth | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Thickness | Thicker | Thinner |
| Natural-looking | Good | Better |
| May require dental implants | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Lifespan | ~8 weeks | 5–10 years |
| Overall fit | Good | Better |
What are the Benefits of Temporary Dentures?
The biggest benefit of using temporary dentures is to immediately fill gaps created by a tooth extraction. This helps protect sensitive gum tissue that’s otherwise left exposed during the healing process. And because you’re wearing dentures immediately after your tooth extraction, you’ll be more used to wearing dentures by the time your permanent set arrives. Another major benefit is their availability. You can get temporary dentures immediately after your extraction, often the same day.
Are There Any Downsides to Temporary Dentures?
There are no real downsides to temporary dentures, but there are some notable differences to be aware of. Because temporary dentures aren’t custom-fit to your teeth, they are overall less comfortable than permanent dentures and may slip or move around in your mouth.
You may also need to have them adjusted occasionally to ensure a good fit and maximum comfort, especially as your mouth changes during the healing process following a tooth extraction.
How Long Do Temporary Dentures Last?
Short-term dentures are only meant to be worn for up to 8 weeks, while permanent dentures can last as long as 10 years. The lifespan of both temporary and permanent dentures depends on how well you care for them.
How Are Temporary Dentures Made?
The process for getting temporary dentures may vary by provider but in general the timeline will look something like the following:
- Prior to your tooth extraction appointment, you will visit your dentist for a bite impression and jaw measurements to create your temporary dentures so that they are ready immediately following your tooth extraction. During this appointment, the dental professional will also note your teeth shade, size, and shape.
- During your tooth extraction appointment, you will receive your temporary dentures.
- Following your tooth extraction appointment, you may need to have your temporary dentures refitted a few times to adjust to your changing mouth and gums as they heal.
What is the Cost of Temporary Dentures?
The cost of temporary dentures will depend on whether you are getting partial or complete temporary dentures. Costs can also vary depending on whether you need any extractions prior to receiving your temporary dentures as well as any necessary realignment or adjustments during the period you wear them.
Are Temporary Dentures for Me?
Temporary dentures are for anyone who needs one or more teeth removed before receiving their permanent dentures. Immediate dentures are especially beneficial for people who are concerned about the way their teeth look and function following a tooth extraction.
While there are several benefits to getting immediate dentures, they are not a requirement to getting permanent dentures.
You Deserve to Love Your Smile!
Losing your natural teeth can be an emotional experience. Temporary dentures are a wonderful solution for getting used to the feeling of wearing dentures right away. Although they take some getting used to, wearing temporary dentures can also help boost your confidence and alleviate any self-consciousness you may have about living with replacement teeth.
Schedule an appointment with your local Affordable Dentures & Implants practice to discuss your tooth replacement options, totally customizable to your needs and budget.