How Long Will It Take to Get My Dentures?

If you live with tooth loss, chances are you’ve thought about getting dentures. While dentures can be a fantastic way to enjoy a complete smile again, many people aren’t quite sure what to expect during the process of getting them. Since each denture is customized to fit the unique mouth of the individual patient, it can take some time to get from your initial consultation to leaving your dentist’s office with a beautiful new smile. Here’s a brief overview of the process of getting dentures and how long you can expect it to last.

It Begins with a Consultation

Before getting dentures, you’ll need to have a dental consultation to determine that you are a good candidate for them. Your dentist will evaluate your gums and remaining teeth. If you have many remaining teeth, your dentist may recommend a partial denture that works in conjunction with them. If you only have a few left, they may recommend a full denture after extractions. Any tooth decay and gum disease will need to be resolved before the dentures can be manufactured.

You May Need Extractions

If you need extractions before getting dentures, you will be scheduled to receive them at a later appointment. These teeth will be extracted after you receive anesthetic treatments to render the process painless. Afterward, your gums will need to completely heal and the swelling will have to subside so that your mouth can be properly measured before the dentures can be manufactured. Healing can take about six to eight weeks.

Taking Impressions and Manufacturing Dentures

Once your gums are in good shape, your dentist will take bite impressions to create a negative mold of your arches. This mold will be sent to a lab where a skilled technician will carefully manufacture your appliance according to your dentist’s specifications. A few days later, you’ll return to your dentist’s office for a “try-in,” during which you will try your incomplete appliance on so your dentist can make any final notes about how they fit, work, and look while making accommodations for your preferences. Your dentures will then be sent back to the lab to be finalized.

Final Adjustments

A few days later, your dentist will receive your finalized dentures. You’ll come back into the office to try them on, and your dentist will make any last-minute adjustments. Once everything is in order, you’ll be free to head out into the world with your beautifully restored smile.

Depending on how much dental work you need for them, getting dentures can take anywhere from six weeks to three months. While this may seem like a long while to wait, you will be rewarded with a gorgeous new smile.

About the Author

Dr. LJ Adam earned his DMD from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine in 2004 and he regularly completes continuing education courses to stay on top of the latest developments in the field. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Pennsylvania Dental Association. His office in Worthington, PA offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. If you’d like to know more about the process of getting dentures, contact his office online or dial (724) 297-3446.