how long until my dentures are ready?
It depends, but as a general guide four or five appointments are needed for full denture treatment. Partials with a smaller number of teeth may be completed in three or four visits, while complex cases might take longer.
Initial consultation
- Medical and dental history.
- Examination and charting.
- Discussion of requirements and choice of treatment plan.
Primary impressions
- Functional impressions are made.
- For partial dentures, tooth colour is selected and a 'bite-record' taken.
Bite records
- For complete dentures, wax rims are placed in the mouth and adjusted and various information is recorded.
- The mid-line is marked so the teeth align to the centre of the face.
- Tooth shape, size and shade is selected and a bite record is made.
- Simple partials can often skip this stage.
Try-in
- Trial wax dentures are fitted in the mouth.
- Appearance, midline, tooth position, posterior 'bite' and speech are all evaluated.
- You will be asked to evaluate appearance of the dentures and to suggest any changes you want (tooth-size, colour and position).
- Small changes can be made during the appointment, whilst others may require laboratory adjustments and another try-in visit.
- Complex cases may require multiple try-in appointments before they are ready for completion.
Delivery
- The finished dentures are ready for placement.
- During your visit minor adjustments are made so the dentures will fit accurately and comfortably.
- Speech and appearance are examined.
- The bite is checked so there is even contact between the top and bottom teeth back teeth.
After-care
- If your new dentures are causing discomfort, we can make adjustments during this visit.
- If you are a first-time denture-wearer, we will discuss your progress and offer advice to help you become accustomed to your dentures.