What are Temporary Dentures?
Temporary dentures, also known as immediate dentures, are removable appliances that replace missing teeth while your gums heal after tooth extractions. They provide a temporary solution for maintaining your appearance and function while you wait for your permanent dentures. Temporary dentures differ from permanent dentures in the following ways:
- Fit: Temporary dentures are made using impressions taken before tooth extractions, meaning they might not fit perfectly after your gums begin to heal and change shape. You’ll likely need adjustments as your gums heal.
- Materials: They are typically made of acrylic, which is more affordable than the materials used in permanent dentures.
- Purpose: The primary purpose of temporary dentures is to provide a temporary solution for aesthetics and function while your gums heal after extractions. They are not designed for long-term use and will eventually be replaced with permanent dentures.
Why Get Temporary Dentures?
Temporary dentures offer a range of benefits that can significantly improve your experience after tooth extractions, making them a wise choice for many patients. Here’s why:
- Maintain Appearance and Function: Temporary dentures help you maintain a more natural appearance and function while your gums heal. This can be crucial for self-confidence, social interactions, and maintaining a balanced diet.
- Protect Gums and Aid Healing: Temporary dentures provide a protective barrier for your healing gums, preventing irritation, discomfort, and potential infection.
- Allow for Adjustment Before Permanent Dentures: Wearing temporary dentures allows your dentist to make adjustments and ensure a perfect fit for your permanent dentures before they are made.
- Immediate Confidence Boost: Getting temporary dentures immediately after tooth extractions can provide an immediate confidence boost, allowing you to feel more comfortable and confident during the healing process.
How are Temporary Dentures Made and Fitted?
Temporary dentures, often called immediate dentures, are made using a process that involves taking impressions of your teeth and gums before any extractions are performed. Here is an overview of the process:
- Impressions: We will take a detailed impression of your teeth and gums using a special material. This creates a mold that captures the precise shape and size of your mouth.
- Fabrication: The impression is then used to create a model of your mouth. A dental prosthetist from Sydney Oral Design Denture Clinic will use this model to design and fabricate a temporary denture using a durable, synthetic material.
- Placement: Once your natural teeth are extracted, the pre-fabricated temporary denture is inserted immediately. This allows you to leave the clinic with a full set of teeth, eliminating the need to go without teeth during the healing process.
It’s important to note that the temporary denture might require adjustments as your gums heal and change shape. These adjustments ensure a comfortable and functional fit as your mouth heals.
Expectations and Adjustments
It’s important to understand that temporary dentures might not feel perfectly comfortable right away, as your gums will continue to heal and change shape after tooth extractions. We will likely make adjustments to your temporary dentures as your gums heal. These adjustments can be done quickly and painlessly in the office, involving adding or removing material from the denture base to improve the fit. The position of the teeth might also need to be adjusted to enhance your bite and comfort.
If the fit of your temporary dentures changes significantly as your gums heal, your dentist might recommend a reline. This involves adding a new layer of acrylic to the base of the denture to create a better seal with your gums.
Following your dentist’s instructions for wearing, cleaning, and caring for your temporary dentures is essential. This ensures a proper fit, maintains their shape, and extends their lifespan. Temporary dentures are designed to be a comfortable and functional solution during the healing process, and regular check-ups with your dentist will ensure a good fit and maximum comfort.
How Much Do Temporary Dentures Cost in Australia?
The cost of temporary dentures in Australia varies depending on the type and complexity of your case. Acrylic partial dentures start at around $1000 per arch, while chrome partial dentures cost around $1,750 per arch. Full immediate dentures cost around $2,000 per arch. An additional cost is added per tooth that needs to be extracted.
To get an accurate estimate for your specific case, it’s essential to consult with the team at Sydney Oral Design Denture Clinic. We can assess your needs, recommend the most suitable type of denture, and provide a personalised quote. This will take into account the number of teeth being extracted, the materials used, and any additional services required.
