Whether you're exploring dentures for yourself or a loved one, it's normal to have a lot of questions.  At Prestige Dental, we know this decision is personal. It's about confidence, comfort, and quality of life. So let’s walk through some of the most common questions people ask about dentures, with answers that are honest, clear, and actually helpful.

What are the different types of dentures?

Dentures are not one-size-fits-all. In fact, they come in different forms, each suited to a particular situation, budget, or preference. Here’s a look at what’s out there:

1. Complete dentures These replace all the teeth in your upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. They’re typically made of acrylic and sit on your gums. If you’ve had all your teeth removed or lost them naturally, this is the classic option.

2. Partial dentures If you still have some healthy teeth left, partial dentures might be the way to go. They fill in the gaps with artificial teeth while clipping onto your remaining natural ones. They help you chew more evenly and keep your natural teeth from shifting around.

3. Immediate dentures These are placed right after your teeth are pulled. The big benefit? You’re not walking around toothless while your mouth heals. The catch? Your mouth will change shape as it heals, so these are often temporary and may need to be adjusted or replaced later.

4. Implant-supported dentures Instead of resting on your gums, these dentures are attached to implants placed in your jawbone. They offer more stability, better bite strength, and a more natural feel. They’re usually more expensive upfront but are often worth it for the long-term comfort and confidence.

5. Snap-in dentures Think of these as the middle ground between regular and implant-supported dentures. They’re removable but attach securely to implants using snaps or locators. You get more stability than traditional dentures, but with the flexibility of taking them out when needed.

6. Flexible dentures Made from a soft, bendable material, these partial dentures can be more comfortable, especially for first-timers. They’re metal-free and tend to look a bit more natural in the mouth, although they may not be as durable as other types.

So which one is right for you? That depends on your oral health, lifestyle, and goals. The best way to know for sure is to book a consultation with your dentist. At Prestige Dental, we walk you through your options and help you figure out what fits you best.

Can I get my teeth pulled and dentures in the same day?

This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the short answer is yes, in many cases you can.

These are called immediate dentures, and they’re designed to be placed right after your natural teeth are extracted. You walk in with your teeth and walk out with your smile intact.

But here’s what you should know:

1. Your gums need time to heal. When teeth are pulled, your gums and bone go through a healing process that changes the shape of your mouth. Immediate dentures won’t fit perfectly forever because your gums will shrink and shift. You’ll either need frequent adjustments, a reline, or a permanent denture later on.

2. You may have some swelling and discomfort. Since your gums are still healing under the dentures, you might feel more tenderness than someone who waits to get fitted. That said, we always make sure you leave with clear care instructions and relief options.

3. Not everyone is a candidate. Some people may be better off waiting for a conventional denture after healing, depending on their oral and overall health. We’ll always give you our honest opinion based on your situation.

Many patients choose immediate dentures because they don’t want a visible gap in their smile. If you’re in that camp, know that we’ll be with you every step of the way, from extractions to your final set of teeth.

How long do you have to wait to get dentures after teeth are pulled?

If you’re not getting immediate dentures, you’ll typically wait around six to eight weeks after tooth extraction before your mouth is ready for a full or partial denture.

Here’s why the wait matters:

1. Your gums need to settle. Once a tooth is pulled, the gums and bone begin to shrink and change shape. This is normal. Waiting ensures your final dentures fit better and last longer without needing as many adjustments.

2. Healing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people heal faster, especially if they’ve had just a few teeth removed. Others take more time, especially if they’ve had multiple extractions or underlying health issues. Smoking, certain medications, or chronic illnesses can all slow healing.

3. You’ll still be supported. You won’t be left hanging during the healing period. We can fit you with temporary solutions or discuss implant options that work with your timeline and comfort.

4. It’s worth the patience. While waiting might feel frustrating, it usually leads to a better long-term outcome. You’ll end up with dentures that feel more secure, look more natural, and stay comfortable for years.

Think of it as giving your gums the time they need to bounce back strong. You’re building a solid foundation for something that’s going to be a big part of your everyday life.

What else should I know?

Dentures have come a long way in both look and feel. Today’s options are more natural-looking and comfortable than ever before. Still, there are a few truths worth knowing upfront:

• You might need adjustments. Your mouth is dynamic. Even perfectly crafted dentures may need tweaks as your gums change.
• They take a little getting used to. Talking, eating, and even smiling might feel different at first. Give it a few weeks, and you’ll likely adjust just fine.
• Cleaning matters. Dentures need to be cleaned daily, just like natural teeth. Not only does it keep your breath fresh, but it also protects your gums from irritation or infection.
• Checkups are still important. Even without natural teeth, you should still see your dentist. We check your fit, your gums, and your overall oral health during every visit.

When you're ready to take the next step

If dentures are something you’ve been considering for a while, the best thing to do is stop guessing and start getting answers tailored to you. At Prestige Dental, we offer denture consultations where we listen to your concerns, examine your mouth, and recommend a plan that works for you.

There’s no pressure. Just information, support, and a path forward.

Schedule your consultation with Prestige Dental today, and let’s talk about your smile. We’re here when you’re ready.