by Dr. Jefferson Lee Clark | Prosthodontist | Roseville, CA
If you’re facing a tooth extraction and considering dentures, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. At Clark Prosthodontics, we specialize in restoring full function and beauty to your smile. Whether you’re preparing for your first set of dentures or upgrading from an older set, understanding what happens after an extraction can help you feel confident and prepared.
Why Do People Need Dentures After Tooth Loss?
When a tooth is removed, whether due to decay, trauma, or disease, it leaves more than just a gap in your smile. Tooth loss can impact your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. Dentures are a proven, time-tested solution that help restore these functions while protecting your remaining oral structures.
Immediate vs. Traditional Dentures: What’s the Difference?
There are two main types of dentures used after extractions:
1. Immediate Dentures:
These are placed right after your teeth are extracted. You leave the office with a full smile, which can be a big emotional relief. However, as your gums and bones heal, the shape of your mouth changes. This means immediate dentures often require adjustments or relining within a few months.
2. Conventional Dentures:
These are made after your gums have healed—typically 6–12 weeks post-extraction. Because they’re created after the initial healing, they tend to fit better and require fewer long-term adjustments.
Dr. Clark will help you choose the right approach based on your specific goals, timeline, and oral health needs.
Will I Be Without Teeth During Healing?
No, not if you choose immediate dentures. Many patients fear going “toothless” after extractions, but immediate dentures solve that concern. While your final dentures or implant-supported options may take time, you’ll always have something functional and natural-looking to smile with.
Healing and Adjusting to New Dentures
Here’s what to expect as you transition into wearing dentures after extractions:
- Initial Soreness: It’s normal to experience tenderness and swelling after your procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers and following our post-op care instructions will help you heal smoothly.
- Adapting to Speaking and Chewing: Your tongue, lips, and jaw need time to adjust. Practice speaking out loud at home and start with softer foods to ease into chewing.
- Regular Adjustments: As your gums heal and shrink, your dentures may feel loose. This is common and easily fixed with a quick adjustment at our office.
Are Dentures My Only Option?
Not at all. Dr. Clark is a board-certified prosthodontist trained in advanced teeth replacement options, including implant-supported dentures and All-on-4® treatments. These provide enhanced stability and feel much more like your natural teeth. Many of our patients start with traditional dentures and later upgrade to implant-based solutions once healing is complete.
Why Trust Dr. Clark with Your Smile?
Tooth extraction and denture placement may sound routine, but your results depend on precision, planning, and whole-person care. Dr. Clark’s bioaesthetic approach considers the health of your gums, jaw, bite, and overall well-being to ensure you get dentures that don’t just fit—they function beautifully and support your long-term health.
Whether you’re planning ahead or already have an extraction scheduled, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
What Type of Denture Is Right for Me?
There are several types of dentures, each with its own advantages depending on your dental condition, budget, and lifestyle:
- Full Dentures: Replace all the teeth in your upper or lower arch.
- Partial Dentures: Ideal if you still have healthy natural teeth. They “bridge the gap” and prevent shifting.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Anchored by dental implants for added security, comfort, and bone preservation.
- Overdentures: Removable dentures that snap onto implants for a more stable fit without adhesives.
Dr. Clark will evaluate your smile, bone structure, and goals to recommend the most appropriate solution
How Long After Extraction Can I Get Permanent Dentures?
Healing time after extractions varies, but here’s a general timeline:
- Immediate dentures: Placed same-day but may require relining later.
- Permanent (conventional) dentures: Typically placed 2–4 months after extractions, once the gum and bone have healed.
- Implant-supported dentures: May require 4–6 months of healing if bone grafting or implants are needed.
We’ll monitor your healing closely and guide you through each phase.
Caring for Your Dentures and Gums
Proper care is essential to extend the life of your dentures and keep your gums healthy:
- Remove dentures nightly to let your gums “rest”
- Soak dentures in a dentist-recommended cleaner
- Brush your gums and tongue daily to prevent irritation and infection
- Come in for regular check-ups to ensure a good fit and detect any changes
If you notice discomfort, looseness, or sores, schedule an appointment for an adjustment. We’re here to keep things feeling and functioning just right.
Can Dentures Look Natural?
Absolutely. Modern dentures—especially those crafted by a prosthodontist like Dr. Clark—are designed to blend seamlessly with your features and restore the unique characteristics of your natural smile. We consider:
- Your lip line and smile symmetry
- Tooth shape and shade
- Bite alignment and facial harmony
In short, no one should know you’re wearing dentures unless you tell them.
Emotional Wellness After Tooth Loss
Tooth loss can affect more than just your bite—it impacts confidence, social life, and emotional well-being. At Clark Prosthodontics, we approach your care with compassion, understanding that restoring your smile is also about restoring your sense of self. Our team is here to support you with kindness, patience, and expertise from day one.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Contact our Roseville office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Clark. Let’s explore your options and create a path toward a confident, functional smile.We proudly serve Roseville, Sacramento, and surrounding communities. Call us or request a consultation online at drclark.pro today.