For many individuals facing tooth loss, the question arises: “How long does it take to make dentures after impressions are done?” Understandably, this is one of the most important queries for those looking forward to regaining their smile and normal function. While the answer varies according to individual circumstances, this blog will walk you through the process and timelines so you know what to expect when getting your dentures.

Whether you’re considering full dentures, partial dentures, or implant-retained dentures, each type requires careful planning, multiple appointments, and attention to detail. The road to a brand-new smile is not instant, but with the right care, it’s worth the journey.

Let’s explore the process and how long it takes to get your new dentures, including everything from the first consultation to the final denture fitting.

The Denture Journey: How Long Does It Take to Get Dentures?

The timeline for making dentures after impressions are taken can vary, but typically, it takes anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. The impressions are forwarded to a dental lab where custom dentures are created. This depends on several factors, such as whether you need any tooth extractions beforehand, the type of dentures you’re getting, and how long the healing process takes. Let’s take a closer look at the steps involved.

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Treatment Plan

How Long Does It Take to Make Dentures After Impressions Are Done consultThe process begins with an initial consultation with your dentist. During this visit, your dentist will examine the health of your remaining teeth, check for any missing teeth, and discuss the best denture options for your needs. Whether you’re getting full dentures, partial dentures, or implant-retained dentures, this consultation serves as the cornerstone for the remainder of your treatment plan.

At this point, your dentist will create a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs, including the timeline for extractions (if necessary), impression taking, and fitting your dentures. This plan is essential to ensure your dentures look natural and fit perfectly.

Step 2: Tooth Extractions (If Necessary)

The process begins with tooth extraction procedure for those needing tooth extractions before getting dentures. After the teeth are removed, it’s important to allow time for the gums to heal before moving on to the next step.

The healing process usually takes about 6-8 weeks, but in some cases, it may take longer. Patience is key here, and healed gums will provide a better foundation for dentures and ensure a more comfortable fit in the long term.

Step 3: Taking Impressions – Crafting the Perfect Fit

Once your gums have healed sufficiently, it’s time for your dentist to take impressions of your oral cavity. These impressions are critical in crafting false teeth that fit snugly, comfortably, and look natural in your mouth.

The dental technician will use these bite moulds and impressions to create a model of your mouth, allowing them to design dentures that replicate the function and appearance of natural teeth. The bite registration also ensures that the dentures align properly with the opposing jaw, giving you the correct bite and chew.

Step 4: Wax Try-In – Testing the Denture Fit

Once the initial impressions are taken, you will come in for a wax try-in appointment. The wax models of your new dentures are placed in your mouth to test for fit, comfort, and appearance. This stage is vital because it allows your dentist to make minor adjustments and ensure your dentures are aligned with your facial structure.

The wax blocks allow you to see how the denture teeth will look and feel, ensuring that the final denture will be a perfect match to your smile and bite. This process helps ensure that the final permanent dentures will fit perfectly.

Step 5: Final Dentures – Fitting Your New Smile

Once the try-in stage is complete and any necessary adjustments are made, the final set of dentures is crafted. These are created in a dental laboratory using the final impressions of your mouth.

At your final appointment, your dentist will fit the completed dentures, ensuring they fit snugly and comfortably. The adjustment period can take a little time as you get used to wearing your new dentures, but with each passing day, they will start to feel more natural. Over time, it may be necessary to reline dentures to maintain a comfortable fit due to changes in your mouth shape, bone loss, and wear.

If you experience any discomfort or sore spots, your dentist can make further adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.

Types of Dentures: What Are Your Options?

Dentures come in several different forms, depending on your specific needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most common denture options available:

Full Dentures

How Long Does It Take to Make Dentures After Impressions Are Done fullFull dentures also referred to as complete dentures, are intended for individuals who have lost all of their teeth in the upper, lower, or both jaws. These dentures sit snugly on your gums, effectively restoring both the functionality and aesthetics of your smile.

Full dentures typically involve tooth extractions (if needed), followed by several appointments to ensure the dentures fit well and function properly.

Partial Dentures

If you still have some remaining healthy teeth, partial dentures can be an excellent solution. These dentures are made to fill in the gaps where missing teeth are located and are secured to your remaining natural teeth with metal clasps or precision attachments.

Partial dentures help preserve the alignment of your existing teeth and provide a stable bite. They are also more comfortable than full dentures for people with some healthy teeth still remaining.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Implant-retained dentures may be the ideal choice for those looking for a more permanent solution. These dentures are anchored in place by dental implants that are surgically placed into the jawbone, offering greater stability and comfort than traditional dentures.

Because they are anchored to implants, these dentures feel more like natural teeth and allow for more normal chewing and speaking. The process for implant-retained dentures typically involves the placement of dental implants first, which can take several months to heal before the dentures are attached.

How Long Does It Take to Make Dentures After Impressions Are Done?

The time it takes to make dentures after impressions are taken depends on several factors, including your dental condition, whether any extractions are needed, and the type of dentures you choose. Here’s a general timeline:

The denture-making process involves several stages, including the initial consultation, potential tooth extractions, impression taking, and the final fitting. Each step is tailored to the individual, and the duration may vary based on specific patient needs.

  • Initial consultation and treatment planning: 1-2 weeks
  • Tooth extractions and healing: 6-8 weeks (if necessary)
  • Impression taking and wax try-in: 2-3 weeks
  • Final denture fitting and adjustments: 1-2 weeks

Depending on your situation, the process can take 8 to 12 weeks or longer.

 

 

FAQs: Your Common Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about getting dentures designed to help guide you through the process.

Q: How long does it take to get dentures after impressions are done?

A: Once impressions are taken, creating the dentures typically takes 2-3 weeks. However, the entire process from start to finish, including extractions and healing time, can take anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks.

Q: Can dentures be made to look like my natural teeth?

A: Absolutely! Modern dentures are designed to resemble natural teeth as much as possible. Your dentist and dental technician will collaborate closely to match your natural smile’s size, shape, and colour.

Q: How long will my dentures last?

A: Dentures generally last between 5 to 10 years. However, as your gums and bones change over time, you may need adjustments or even a new set of dentures to guarantee a proper fit.

Q: What’s the difference between full dentures and partial dentures?

A: Full dentures replace all the teeth on your upper or lower jaw, while a partial denture fills in gaps between existing teeth when some of your natural teeth remain. Partial dentures not only serve a cosmetic function but also help preserve dental placement and enhance functionality for chewing and speaking.

Q: Can I eat normally with dentures? 

A: Yes, but it may take some time to adjust to eating with your dentures. Begin with soft foods and slowly introduce harder foods as you grow more accustomed to your dentures.

Final Thoughts – A New Smile is Worth the Wait

How Long Does It Take to Make Dentures After Impressions Are Done implantGetting dentures is a significant step toward restoring your smile, function, and confidence. While the process may take several weeks or months, the result is well worth it. From the primary consultation to the final fitting, each step is carefully designed to ensure your new dentures fit comfortably, look natural, and function effectively. The denture-making process involves collaboration between your dentist and a dental lab to create custom dentures that meet your specific needs.

If you have any concerns or questions along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to Advanced Dental Care at (02) 6188 7103. With the right care and attention, your new smile is closer than you think!

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

References:

National Health Service. (n.d.). Dentures. NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dentures/#:~:text=Dentures%20are%20removable%20false%20teeth,potential%20problems%20caused%20by%20gaps.

Colgate. (n.d.). Implant-supported denture. https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/dentures/implant-supported-denture#

Healthline. (n.d.). Tooth extraction. https://www.healthline.com/health/tooth-extraction

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Dental impressions. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22671-dental-impressions

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