Getting dentures is a big decision, not just for your smile, but for your confidence, your comfort, and your overall quality of life. Whether you're exploring dentures for the first time or replacing a worn-out set, there's a lot to consider. From the different types available to the timeline of tooth extractions and fittings, it’s normal to have questions.

This blog breaks down some of the most common concerns patients bring up at Hillside Dental Care. If you’ve been wondering whether dentures are right for you, keep reading. You might find that you’re closer to a solution than you thought.

What are the different types of dentures?

Dentures come in a variety of styles, and each one is designed to meet different needs depending on your dental health, your preferences, and your lifestyle. Let’s take a closer look at what’s out there:

1. Full Dentures: Also known as complete dentures, these are ideal if you’ve lost all your teeth on the upper or lower arch, or both. A full denture is a removable set of artificial teeth custom-made to fit snugly over your gums. You’ll typically need to wait a few weeks after your teeth are removed to get these, but they offer a classic solution that many people find both functional and natural-looking.

2. Partial Dentures: If you still have some natural teeth left, partial dentures might be a better fit. These consist of one or more replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored base. The partial denture clips into place around your existing teeth and can be removed easily for cleaning. They help keep your remaining teeth from shifting out of place while giving your smile a complete look.

3. Immediate Dentures: As the name implies, these are placed immediately after your teeth are extracted. They’re a temporary solution to help you get by while your gums heal and your permanent dentures are being prepared. While convenient, immediate dentures may require adjustments over time because your gums will naturally shrink as they heal.

4. Implant-Supported Dentures: This is one of the most stable options available today. Instead of resting on the gums, these dentures are anchored in place by dental implants that are surgically placed in the jawbone. They offer a more secure fit and are great for chewing and speaking comfortably. Many patients say they feel more like natural teeth than traditional options.

5. Snap-In Dentures: These are similar to implant-supported dentures but are designed to snap onto implants for easy removal. They provide added stability without the permanence of fixed implant dentures.

The right choice will depend on your oral health, your budget, and your long-term goals. That’s why it’s essential to sit down with a dentist who can walk you through your options and help you decide what fits best.

Can I get my teeth pulled and dentures in the same day?

Yes, it’s possible; and it’s a pretty popular option too. Many patients don’t love the idea of walking around without teeth, even for a short time. That’s where immediate dentures come in.

When you go for same-day dentures, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth ahead of time while your natural teeth are still in place. These impressions are used to craft your dentures so they’re ready to be inserted as soon as your teeth are removed.

Here’s what you need to know about same-day dentures:

You’ll leave the office with teeth: That’s one of the biggest advantages. You don’t have to spend weeks or months without a smile. Even if they’re temporary, immediate dentures help you maintain your appearance and some level of function while you heal.

There may be some soreness: Your gums will still be adjusting, and the fit of your immediate dentures may change slightly as your mouth heals. Follow-up visits are important so your dentist can reline or adjust the fit as needed.

They're not your final set: Same-day dentures are usually a stepping stone. Once your gums fully heal, typically after a few months, you’ll get a more permanent set of dentures that offer a better fit and improved comfort.

Not everyone is a candidate for immediate dentures. If you have infection, gum disease, or other complications, your dentist may recommend waiting before placing a denture. At Hillside Dental Care, we’ll help you figure out if same-day dentures are the right move for you.

How long do you have to wait to get dentures after teeth are pulled?

It depends on the type of denture you're getting and how your body heals, but generally, here’s what to expect:

For conventional full dentures: Most people wait about 6 to 8 weeks after their extractions before getting fitted for full dentures. This gives the gums and jawbone time to heal and shrink into their new shape. Healing time is key to getting a snug, comfortable fit—too soon, and the dentures might feel loose later on.

For immediate dentures: As mentioned earlier, these are placed on the same day as your extraction, but they’re temporary. You’ll still need to come back for adjustments or a new permanent set once your gums finish healing.

For implant-supported dentures: If you’re going this route, you’ll need to give your jawbone time to heal after implant surgery. This could take 3 to 6 months depending on your body’s response. The implants need time to bond with your bone in a process called osseointegration before your dentures can be secured.

It’s also important to note that healing isn’t just about time—it’s also about care. Following your dentist’s instructions closely, keeping up with follow-up visits, and maintaining a clean mouth all speed up the process and lead to better outcomes.

Everyone’s healing timeline is different. Age, health conditions, smoking, and even diet can all affect how long it takes. The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone. We’ll monitor your progress every step of the way.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

Choosing to get dentures isn’t just about replacing teeth—it’s about getting back to life with confidence. Whether you’re smiling in photos, sharing a meal with loved ones, or speaking clearly at work, the right denture can make a big difference in how you feel day to day.

At Hillside Dental Care, we know that every smile has its own story. That’s why we never take a one-size-fits-all approach. We take time to understand your goals, walk you through your options, and tailor a treatment plan that’s built around you—not just your teeth.

If you’re thinking about dentures, or even just curious about what’s possible, we’d love to talk. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward a smile that feels like you.