Same Day Dentures

What are Same-Day Dentures?

Same-day dentures are temporary false teeth that allow you to get a tooth extraction and dentures on the same day. They are also known as:

• Immediate dentures
• Temporary dentures
• One-day dentures
• Dentures in a day

It is common for people to need tooth extractions before getting dentures, which is why it can take several days to a few weeks to complete the process. You can’t wear regular dentures until your mouth fully heals from the tooth extraction(s).

Same-day dentures provide a complete smile while you wait for your gums to heal. They also act as a bandage and healing aid after tooth removal.¹

With same-day dentures, you never have to go public without teeth. They will also give you the experience of speaking and chewing with prosthetic teeth, so you’ll have an easier time adjusting to your regular dentures once they’re ready.

Immediate Dentures vs. Regular Dentures

Immediate and regular dentures can replace the look and function of missing natural teeth. However, there are some notable differences:

What is the Process for Same-Day Dentures?

If your dentist determines you need a tooth extraction, they may recommend same-day dentures as your temporary dental prosthetics during the procedure’s healing process. This is especially true if they need to perform full-mouth or front-tooth extractions.

The process of putting in immediate dentures is not complicated, but it does take time. It will also vary slightly from dentist to dentist.

These are the general steps that would occur:

1. Your dentist will make impressions of your teeth⁠ — Before they extract your teeth, your dentist will make impressions, so they can send the mold to a dental lab.
2. Your dentist will schedule tooth extractions⁠ — If you need a full immediate denture, your dentist can schedule the extractions as soon as your denture is ready. 
3. Your dentist will fit your immediate dentures⁠ — Your dentist will place them in your mouth to see if they need to make any adjustments.
4. You will receive aftercare instructions⁠ — After your dentist ensures the extracted area is bandaged well, they will give you essential instructions. These include taking certain medications, watching your diet, and avoiding smoking.

You cannot remove same-day dentures immediately following their insertion. Your gums will swell and may prevent re-insertion.

Speak with your dentist about the appropriate time to take them out after surgery. Once the extraction sites form clots and the holes start to close, you’ll need to follow standard denture care.

Tooth Extraction Recovery Time with Same-Day Dentures

Immediate dentures can help the healing process after tooth extractions.^{1, 2, 3} Medical benefits of same-day dentures include:

• The immediate denture acts as a bandage and helps control bleeding, trauma, and pain at the extraction sites
• The dentures help keep your jaw and muscles in place and keep their shape
• Patients can speak, chew, and swallow after their teeth are removed
• Patients retain a normal appearance while their gums and bones heal, which can help prevent embarrassment and isolation

What to Expect After Placement

Immediate dentures may not be instantly comfortable. With all dentures, it can take time to adjust.

You may experience some difficulty chewing and speaking for the first few days. You may also experience some soreness, especially since you've just had surgery on your mouth.

When are Temporary Dentures Necessary?

Immediate dentures are necessary for some people. If you’ve had any teeth removed, your gums need to heal before the dentist can give you a new set of dentures.

Immediate dentures eliminate the "no teeth" period after a tooth extraction. They provide some function and improve esthetics while you wait for your gums to heal.

Usually, the dentures are delivered immediately after your surgery. They’ll stay in throughout your healing period. This generally can take up to 6 months, but it may take more or less time for some people.

Am I a Candidate for Same-Day Dentures?

Immediate dentures are always an optional treatment. However, your dentist may recommend them if you have a complete extraction or several teeth removed.

You might NOT be an ideal candidate for immediate dentures if: ²

• You have a debilitating disease
• You have a systemic condition such as cancer, endocrine disorders, or blood disorders
• You have slow healing potential
• You have difficulties remembering post-operative instructions

It is up to the patient and dentist to decide whether a person is an ideal candidate for same-day dentures.

How Much Do Same-Day Dentures Cost?

You can expect to pay between $600 and $1,000 for one standard or basic immediate denture arch or $1,200 to $2,000 for a full set. 

The cost of same-day dentures depends on a few factors, including:

• The denture type, quality, and material
• The severity of your oral health condition(s)
• How many teeth need to be extracted ($75 to $300 per tooth)
• The location of the dental office (city clinics often cost more than rural clinics) 
• The dentist’s rates (a specialist might cost more than a general dentist)

Does Insurance Cover Same-Day Dentures?

Fortunately, many dental plans do cover all or some of both partial and full immediate dentures. Insurance can make your immediate dentures and conventional dentures more affordable.

For example, through Guardian Direct, both Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO) plans and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans provide coverage for dentures. The network of providers available and the cap on annual maximums and other benefits vary, but you’ll still have some cost savings.

Some insurance plans will cover up to 50 percent of your dentures. For more accurate information, speak with your provider.

Pros and Cons of Same-Day Dentures

To determine if same-day dentures are right for you, compare the pros and cons below:

Pros

• Immediate dentures provide health benefits and protect your gums while they are healing
• They protect any remaining natural teeth by reducing pressure while chewing
• You can leave your appointment with a full smile
• Immediate dentures allow you to practice eating and speaking with fake teeth
• They prevent bleeding, inflammation, and swelling

Cons

• The main drawback of immediate dentures is their cost
• They are usually just a temporary solution 
• Your dentures may be uncomfortable at first and need to be replaced once your gums are healed
• Immediate dentures require additional appointments for adjustments while your mouth is healing

Where Can I Find a Same-Day Denture Clinic?

You can ask your local dentist if they provide same-day dentures after having teeth extracted. They may provide these services or recommend a trusted colleague.

Summary

• Same-day dentures are an optional temporary treatment for people who need tooth extractions and dentures
• They help with the healing process and allow normal oral functions, especially after full extractions
• Traditional dentures will replace immediate dentures once your gums are healed
• Same-day dentures may require more frequent follow-up appointments for readjustments
• Same-day dentures will significantly increase treatment costs