Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures offer a quick solution for individuals who require teeth extraction and replacement. These prosthetic devices are inserted immediately after teeth extraction, providing immediate restoration of aesthetics and function. However, what many individuals may not realize is the intricate process of bone resorption that occurs during the subsequent healing period, typically spanning from six months to one year.
Understanding Immediate Dentures:
Immediate dentures are custom-made prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth immediately after extraction. Unlike traditional dentures, which are fitted after the gums have fully healed post-extraction, immediate dentures are placed immediately, ensuring the patient doesn’t experience the embarrassment of being toothless during the healing period.
Bone Resorption: The Healing Process
The bone in the jaw undergoes a natural process called bone resorption following tooth extraction. This process involves the gradual breakdown and reabsorption of bone tissue by the body. When a tooth is extracted, the surrounding bone no longer serves its original purpose of supporting the tooth, leading the body to reabsorb this unused bone tissue.
Timeline of Bone Resorption:
Bone resorption begins immediately after tooth extraction and continues over several months to a year. During the first few weeks, the most significant amount of bone resorption occurs, resulting in noticeable changes in the shape and volume of the jawbone. As the healing progresses, bone resorption gradually slows down, but it continues at a slower pace for up to a year post-extraction.
Impact on Denture Fit:
The process of bone resorption has a significant impact on the fit of immediate dentures. As the jawbone undergoes changes in shape and volume, the dentures may become loose or ill-fitting. This can lead to discomfort, difficulty chewing, and speech problems for the wearer.
DenSureFit: An Easy Do-It Yourself Solution for Maintaining Denture Fit:
During the healing process, when bone resorption is ongoing, the DenSureFit over the counter do-it yourself system can be invaluable. DenSureFit is a silicone-based denture reline kit that creates a custom-fit cushion for dentures. By applying DenSureFit to the denture base, patients can maintain a secure and comfortable fit, even as the jawbone undergoes changes during healing. This helps alleviate discomfort and ensures optimal function until complete healing and swelling subside.
Long-Term Considerations:
Once healing is complete and swelling has subsided, patients may opt for new prosthetic solutions that offer a more permanent fix. These could include implant-supported dentures or traditional dentures fitted to the fully healed jawbone. These long-term solutions aim to provide stability, durability, and improved function for the wearer.
Immediate dentures offer a convenient solution for individuals undergoing tooth extraction by providing immediate restoration of aesthetics and function. However, it’s crucial to understand the process of bone resorption that occurs during the subsequent healing period. By being aware of the changes in jawbone structure and the potential impact on denture fit, patients can work closely with their dentists to ensure optimal comfort and function of their prosthetic devices. Regular follow-up appointments and adjustments, along with the product DenSureFit, you can maintain denture fit during the healing process. Ultimately, once healing is complete, patients may explore permanent prosthetic solutions for long-term stability and comfort.
