Who Is a Good Candidate for Immediate Dentures?

Losing natural teeth can be an emotional and physical challenge. If you need tooth extractions but don’t want to be without teeth while your gums heal, immediate dentures might be the perfect solution.

But who qualifies for this treatment? Who is a good candidate for immediate dentures? This guide will help you understand whether this option is right for you and what to expect during the process.

What Are Immediate Dentures?

Immediate dentures are temporary dentures placed on the same day as your tooth extractions. Unlike traditional dentures, which require weeks of healing before fitting, immediate dentures allow you to leave the dental office with a full set of teeth.

These dentures provide aesthetic benefits, protect extraction sites, and help with speech and eating while your gums heal. However, they require adjustments and relining as your gums shrink.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Immediate Dentures?

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for immediate dentures. Here are the key factors that make someone a good candidate for immediate dentures:

Patients with Multiple Missing or Failing Teeth

If you have several damaged, decayed, or missing teeth, immediate dentures can restore your smile instantly.

You’re a Good Candidate If You

• Have severe tooth decay or gum disease affecting multiple teeth.
• Need full-mouth extractions or replacement of most teeth.
• Want a fast and convenient tooth replacement solution.

Individuals Who Want to Avoid Being Toothless

One of the biggest advantages of immediate dentures is that you won’t have to go weeks or months without teeth while waiting for permanent dentures.

You’re a Good Candidate If You

• Want to maintain aesthetic confidence and normal speech function.
• Need to continue social and professional activities without disruption.

People with Healthy Gums & Bone Structure

Immediate dentures sit directly on your healing gums, so your gum and bone health play a critical role in success.

You’re a Good Candidate If You 

• Have healthy jawbone density to support dentures.
• Do not have severe periodontal disease that weakens gums.

If you have advanced bone loss or gum disease, additional procedures like bone grafting may be needed before getting dentures.

Patients Willing to Commit to Adjustments & Relining

Since gums shrink as they heal, immediate dentures require several adjustments and relines before a final set of dentures is made.

You’re a Good Candidate If You

• Understand that multiple visits will be needed for adjustments.
• Are willing to get a permanent denture or dental implants later.

People Looking for a Cost-Effective Tooth Replacement

Immediate dentures are more affordable than dental implants and offer a faster solution compared to traditional dentures.

You’re a Good Candidate If You

• Want an affordable and fast way to replace teeth.
• Are not ready for dental implants but still want a complete smile.

Those Who Follow Post-Extraction Care Instructions

Since immediate dentures cover healing extraction sites, proper care is crucial to prevent infection and ensure a smooth recovery.

You’re a Good Candidate If You

• Are committed to proper oral hygiene and denture cleaning.
• Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions carefully.

Who Is NOT a Good Candidate for Immediate Dentures?

Immediate dentures may not be the best option if:

• You have severe bone loss making denture stability difficult.
• You have untreated gum disease that needs addressing first.
• You prefer a long-term solution like dental implants instead.
• You are not willing to commit to adjustments and relining.

If immediate dentures aren’t the right fit, alternatives like implant-supported dentures or traditional full dentures may be recommended.

What to Expect with Immediate Dentures

Before Your Procedure

• A mold of your mouth is taken before tooth extraction to create the immediate dentures.
• Your dentist will discuss extraction day procedures, aftercare, and pain management.

On the Day of Extraction & Denture Placement

• Extractions are performed, and dentures are placed immediately.
• You will experience some swelling and discomfort, which is normal.
• Your dentist will provide pain relief and aftercare instructions.

Recovery & Adjustments

• The first few days will involve swelling, soreness, and mild bleeding.
• Over the next few months, your gums will shrink, requiring denture adjustments.
• After full healing (around 6 months), a permanent denture or implant-supported option can be considered.

FAQs

How long do immediate dentures last?

Immediate dentures are a temporary solution meant to last until your gums heal. After 6 months, they are often replaced with permanent dentures or implants.

Will immediate dentures hurt?

You may feel discomfort for the first few days to weeks, but pain is manageable with medications and proper care. Swelling and soreness improve over time.

Can I eat normally with immediate dentures?

For the first few weeks, you’ll need to stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups. As you adjust, you can gradually reintroduce harder foods.

How often do immediate dentures need adjustments?

Since your gums shrink after extractions, you’ll need multiple adjustments and relining over the next few months for a comfortable fit.

Can I get dental implants after immediate dentures?

Yes! Many patients choose dental implants after healing for a more stable and long-term solution.

How do I clean my immediate dentures?

• Remove them daily to clean with mild soap or denture cleaner.
• Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to promote healing.
• Follow your dentist’s cleaning and soaking recommendations.

Are Immediate Dentures Right for You?

Immediate dentures offer a fast, convenient, and cost-effective solution for patients needing multiple extractions. If you’re looking for an option that allows you to leave the dental office with a full smile, immediate dentures may be the perfect fit.

If you’re considering immediate dentures, schedule a consultation at Stoney Trail Dental to explore your best options!

Book Your Immediate Denture Consultation Today at Stoney Trail Dental

Visit our clinic at 185 East Hills Blvd. SE - Unit 20, Calgary, AB T2A 6Z8 Or call us (403) 248-2948

Bibliography & Sources

• Denture Guidelines and Post-Extraction Care 
• What to Expect with Immediate Dentures