Teeth and Jaw Problems: Finding Answers for Your Pain

Posted on: 31 March 2015

People used to wait for about six months for their tooth extractions to heal before they could have dentures made. But thanks to temporary dentures, today, you don't have to wait for your permanent dentures. If your dentist has suggested temporary dentures, here are some of their benefits and disadvantages, besides what to expect.

Advantages of Temporary Dentures

There are several reasons for using temporary dentures, which are also known as intermediate dentures.

• You can smile, confidently, without worrying about gaps in your teeth. As a result, you can easily face other people without feeling self-conscious. Also, there's less facial distortion when your teeth have been removed.
• Temporary dentures establish clots under the extraction sites, so the affected area heals better. In other words, it functions as a protective bandage that reduces bleeding.
• You can chew your food better.
• Because you don't have a gap in your teeth, your speech is improved.
• It's easy to make adjustments. For example, your dentist can reline your dentures, if necessary.
• They can serve as spare dentures—If your permanent dentures are lost or fractured, your temporary dentures can be used as emergency dentures.

Disadvantages

There are a few negatives with temporary dentures:

• They're more expensive—The main drawback is that they cost somewhat more than permanent dentures. This is mainly because they require more time to construct. While the average cost of permanent dentures is about $1,300, temporary dentures cost around $1,450.
• They may not fit perfectly—Although it's rare, these dentures sometimes don't fit as snugly as traditional dentures.
• There's no preview—You can't see how they look prior to your tooth being extracted.

Adjusting to Your Temporary Dentures

• For the first 48 hours after your procedure, only remove your temporary dentures every four to six hours for cleaning purposes. Don't even take them out while sleeping.  Because the gum tissues swell after a tooth extraction, taking out your dentures can interfere with reinserting them. 
• Expect to have some bleeding for a few days.  
• Don't be surprised if you have some mild irritation or soreness, but these symptoms generally subside, naturally. For any severe discomfort, see your dentist, so your dentures can be adjusted.

Considerations and Warnings

• You'll probably wear your temporary dentures for two to three months after your tooth extraction.
• The process of getting your dentures involves about four or five dental appointments. This amount of time is needed for the fabrication phase, which involves a dental clinic making dental impressions and bite records. It also entails tooth selection as well as the fitting, color and shape of your new dentures.
• You may not be a candidate for temporary dentures if you have specific oral problems or suffer from poor overall health.

You don't have to settle for missing teeth. If you have any questions about temporary dentures, don't hesitate to consult your dentist, like those at Access Family Dental.