You’ve probably heard about dentures — those replacement teeth that help millions smile with confidence. But what do you really know about them? There’s more to dentures than meets the eye. Did you know they can help you eat better, speak clearer, and maintain your facial structure? Or that they come with different lifespans and comfort levels?
Two major types of dentures can dramatically change your smile: temporary and permanent dentures. Here’s everything you need to know about both options and how they can help you!
The Basic Differences Between Temporary and Permanent Dentures
Temporary dentures (also called immediate dentures) go into your mouth right after your natural teeth are removed. They are like placeholders while your mouth heals. They let you walk out of the dental office with a full set of teeth instead of waiting weeks for permanent ones.
Permanent dentures, on the other hand, are your long-term solution. These are made after your gum tissue fully recovers from tooth extractions or dental surgery. They’re carefully crafted to fit perfectly in your mouth and look just like natural teeth.
The main difference? Temporary dentures help you through the healing process, while permanent dentures serve as your new smile for years to come. Each type has its place in dental care, depending on your needs and situation.
Comfort and Fit Quality
When it comes to comfort, temporary and permanent dentures feel quite different in your mouth. Temporary dentures might feel a bit loose or bulky at first. This happens because they’re made before your teeth are extracted, so they can’t perfectly match your changing gum shape during healing.
Permanent dentures typically offer superior comfort because they’re made after your gums have healed completely. Your dentist takes impressions of your fully healed mouth to create dentures that fit like a glove. They’re less likely to slip around while you’re eating or talking, and they usually feel more natural.
The Cost Factor: Comparing Your Investment
The cost of temporary dentures might surprise you. While they’re generally less expensive than permanent dentures upfront, remember you’ll likely need permanent ones eventually. Getting both types means paying twice, but many people find the convenience worth it.
Permanent dentures come with a higher price tag because they’re made with premium materials and require more detailed fitting processes. However, they last much longer and might save you money in the long run. Plus, they often look more natural and feel more comfortable, which many people say is worth the extra investment.
Insurance often covers part of both types, but coverage varies widely. Before making your decision, check with your insurance provider about specific coverage for temporary and permanent dentures.
Timeline and Healing Process
The healing process for each type of denture is different. Temporary dentures are placed immediately after your teeth are removed, which means there is no gap in your smile. However, you’ll need several adjustments as your mouth heals and changes shape.
Permanent dentures require patience. After tooth extraction, you’ll wait about 8–12 weeks for your gum tissue to heal completely. During this time, your mouth will change shape as the swelling goes down. Once healing finishes, you’ll get your permanent dentures, which will perfectly fit your mouth.
Some people wear their temporary dentures during this whole process, making the transition to permanent ones smoother. Your gums might feel tender during healing, but this discomfort typically improves within a few weeks.
Durability and Longevity
Temporary dentures usually hold up for about 6–12 months. They’re not built for long-term use because your mouth changes shape as it heals from having teeth extracted. Plus, the materials used aren’t as durable as those in permanent dentures.
With proper care, permanent dentures can last 5–10 years or even longer. They’re made from stronger materials and designed to withstand daily use. Cleaning and proper maintenance help them last longer. However, as your mouth naturally changes over time, you might need occasional adjustments or relining to keep them fitting well.
Appearance and Natural Look
The appearance difference between temporary and permanent dentures can be quite noticeable. Temporary dentures look good, but they’re made before your teeth are extracted, so they might not match your face perfectly once your mouth heals.
Permanent dentures offer a more natural appearance because they’re crafted after healing. Your dentist can match them to your face shape, skin tone, and even your previous smile if you want. They’re also made with better materials that resist staining and look more like real teeth.
Both types help maintain facial structure and prevent the sunken look that can result from missing teeth. However, permanent dentures typically provide better aesthetic results because they’re precisely fitted to your healed mouth.
Making Your Choice at Center City Emergency Dentist
Here’s what matters most: getting your dentures from dental professionals who know their stuff. At Center City Emergency Dentist, we provide both temporary and permanent dentures, plus all the information you need to make the right choice. We’ll walk you through every step, from deciding between partial dentures and complete dentures to maintaining your new teeth. If you’re in Center City, Philadelphia, or nearby areas, give us a call to schedule your appointment. We’ll help you figure out which type of dentures matches your needs and budget.
We also offer dental implants and other solutions to replace missing teeth, so don’t hesitate to ask!