How Long Does It Take To Make Permanent Dentures?

When it comes to getting permanent dentures, many people wonder how long the entire process takes. The timeline for making permanent dentures can vary depending on several factors. Whether you’re opting for traditional dentures or implant-supported ones, understanding the steps and timeframes can help you prepare for what to expect. Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to follow, and I’ll guide you through each phase, addressing typical concerns and providing a clear picture of what you can expect.

What Are Permanent Dentures?

Permanent dentures are long-term dental solutions designed to replace missing teeth. They’re custom-made to fit your mouth, restore your ability to chew and speak properly, and give you back the confidence of a natural smile. While the term “permanent” might make you think of fixed, non-removable dentures, it’s important to note that implant-supported dentures are the only truly fixed option. Traditional dentures, although durable, can be removed for cleaning and maintenance.

Types of Permanent Dentures:

• Traditional Dentures: These are removable dentures made of acrylic or porcelain that rest on your gums.
• Implant-Supported Dentures: Fixed dentures that are anchored to dental implants embedded in your jawbone. This option provides more stability and is often recommended for individuals who have experienced significant bone loss.

The Typical Timeline for Getting Permanent Dentures

The process of getting permanent dentures involves several stages, each of which takes a specific amount of time. Let’s break down the timeline, so you know what to expect:

1. Initial Consultation (1-2 Weeks)

This is your first appointment with your dentist, where they will assess your oral health and determine if you’re a good candidate for dentures. This stage typically involves:

• A thorough dental exam
• X-rays and possibly a CT scan if you’re considering implant-supported dentures
• Discussing your options, including the type of denture that best suits your needs

Why this is important: Your dentist needs to evaluate the condition of your teeth and gums to create a treatment plan. This is also when they will explain the process in detail.

2. Teeth Extraction and Healing (2-6 Weeks)

If your teeth need to be extracted before getting dentures, this step can take a few weeks. You’ll need time for your gums to heal after the extractions.

What to Expect During Healing:

• Swelling and Discomfort: Some mild swelling and discomfort are common. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relief.
• Dietary Adjustments: For the first few days, you may need to stick to soft foods and liquids as you recover.

Why this is crucial: The healing period allows your gums to settle into a stable shape, ensuring that your dentures will fit comfortably.

3. Preliminary Impressions (1 Week)

Once your gums have healed sufficiently, your dentist will take preliminary dental impressions of your mouth. These impressions are used to create a model of your mouth to design the denture.

Why this step matters: Accurate impressions are crucial for ensuring that your dentures will fit well and feel comfortable. Any errors in this stage can lead to poor-fitting dentures.

4. Wax Try-In (1-2 Weeks)

This is one of the most important steps in the process. Your dentist will create a wax try-in denture that’s shaped like the final product but not yet made from the permanent material. You’ll get to wear this temporary version to test how it looks and feels.

What to Expect:

• You’ll be able to assess the aesthetics and comfort of the dentures before they’re finalized.
• You can give feedback on the appearance and functionality—like the bite or alignment.

Why this matters: This step allows you to provide feedback on how the dentures fit, ensuring they meet both functional and aesthetic needs before the final product is made.

5. Final Impressions and Denture Fabrication (2-4 Weeks)

Once you’re happy with the wax try-in, the next step is taking the final impressions of your mouth, which will be used to craft the final set of permanent dentures.

Why this is important: The final impressions are the most critical part of ensuring that your permanent dentures fit comfortably and function properly.

6. Fitting and Adjustments (1-2 Weeks)

Once your permanent dentures are made, your dentist will fit them and make necessary adjustments. This may include trimming or reshaping the dentures to ensure comfort. The fitting process might take a couple of weeks as your gums adapt to the new dentures.

Common issues during adjustment:

• Sore spots: New dentures may cause some soreness, which can usually be resolved with adjustments.
• Speech difficulties: Speaking may feel a little awkward at first, but this is temporary as your mouth gets used to the dentures.

Why adjustments matter: Even small issues like sore spots can affect your comfort and confidence, so it’s important to schedule follow-up appointments to resolve any discomfort.

Typical Timeline Summary

Factors That Can Shorten or Lengthen the Timeline

While the typical timeline is outlined above, several factors can impact how long the process will take. These include:

• Healing complications: If you experience delayed healing after tooth extractions, it can push back the timeline.
• Lab delays: Sometimes, there may be delays in the lab’s production process.
• Personal adjustments: Some people may require more fittings and adjustments than others to ensure a perfect fit.

What Happens If the Timeline Varies?

Sometimes, the process can take longer than expected, especially if there are complications such as healing delays or if you opt for implant-supported dentures, which require more time for the implants to integrate with your bone (a process called osseointegration). It’s important to discuss any potential delays with your dentist and manage expectations accordingly.

Permanent Dentures vs. Other Tooth Replacement Options

While permanent dentures are a popular choice, it’s important to know how they compare to other tooth replacement options, such as bridges or implants. Typically, dentures take longer to create than a single dental implant, but they are often more affordable and less invasive.

Why choose permanent dentures?

• Faster process than implants.
• Less invasive than implant surgery.
• Restores full mouth function, unlike bridges which can only replace one or two teeth.

Questions to Ask Your Dentist

When you’re considering permanent dentures, here are a few questions you might want to ask your dentist during your consultation:

• What type of permanent denture is best for me?
• How long will the entire process take?
• What are the costs involved, including the procedure and adjustments?
• Can I choose the color and shape of my new dentures?
• What should I expect during the healing process?

Ready to Get Started on Your New Smile?

Now that you have a better understanding of the timeline and process for getting permanent dentures, the next step is to schedule your consultation with a dental professional. By working with a trusted dentist, you’ll receive personalized care to ensure your dentures fit well, look great, and help restore your confidence.

Take the first step toward a better smile—contact us today to book your consultation!