Frequently Asked Questions
Select a procedure from the list below to view FAQs.
All-On-4 “Teeth in a Day”
Snap-In Implant Dentures
Single Tooth Implants and Bridges
Dentures
All-On-4 “Teeth in a Day”
Snap-In Implant Dentures
Single Tooth Implants and Bridges
Dentures
All-On-4
“Teeth in a Day”

Will I be able to eat with my new teeth from day one?
Yes! However, while your implants and teeth are securely placed from day one, we do ask that you maintain a soft diet during the 4 month healing period. What exactly does that mean? A good general rule is you can eat anything you can cut with a plastic fork. The reason for this is that you are investing in something that could last you many decades, even the rest of your life, and maintaining a softer diet during the healing period will allow the best integration of your implants into your bone and help ensure the best long-term outcome.
How long has the All-on-4 procedure been around?
This life-changing procedure was pioneered by Portuguese dentist Paolo Malo in the 1990s. Since then, this procedure has safely been performed on hundreds of thousands of patients and has been improved upon to what you see today.
How do I care for my All-On-4 teeth?
Caring for your teeth is very easy, but consistency is key. Just like we’re supposed to brush and floss natural teeth, we should do the same with our All-On-4 teeth and implants. A few minutes a day is all it will take to keep your mouth and implants healthy. Brushing your bridges with a soft bristle tooth brush and cleaning under them with a water flosser (WaterPik is a very popular, well-known brand) a few times a day is all it takes.
Smoking can increase the risk of implant complications, so we recommend not smoking with dental implants. Diabetics should also be aware of an increased risk for complication with dental implants. Controlling your diabetes is very important for the long-term success of your implants.
Other than that, simply follow up with your doctor regularly throughout the year for quick evaluations of your new implant teeth.
What do the new implant bridges feel like?
Your new implant bridges will be a new sensation and will take a few days or sometimes a few weeks to get used to.
Is there excessive pain involved in this procedure?
While there will be moderate pain, it is similar to the pain of dental extractions. We use a combination of medications to help control pain and keep our patients as comfortable as possible.
Will there be pain after the procedure?
While experiences will vary some, you should expect some discomfort and possibly swelling after your procedure. Many patients come in the next day for their post op appointment reporting very little discomfort. You will be prescribed pain medication to help alleviate any discomfort. Also, if you’re a candidate for it, the doctor will give you a steroid shot which will help with discomfort and swelling for the first few days.
What is the recovery time like for this procedure?
This will vary from patient to patient, but, overall, the recovery period is shorter and easier with this procedure compared to other full arch or full mouth replacement options. This is mainly thanks to the bridges being attached directly to your jaws via your implants. Traditional dentures and implant dentures both require healing periods during which time the dentures are able to move and cause sore spots. Your pain should subside for the most part within 1-2 weeks, with complete healing typically after 6 months.
What is the difference between Tacoma Dentures and Implants vs. another local office that has a wide scope of dental services?
We limit our practice to dental implants and prosthetics. Dental implants and specifically teeth in a day is our passion, and we are constantly working to ensure our patients get the best results possible. Many offices will refer you to multiple providers, use outside labs, and have confusing pricing. They will take many months or even years to complete your procedure while charging you 50-100% more. Our doctor performs the procedure from surgery to final teeth, we have an in house lab and lab technician, and transparent, affordable pricing. By having all this under one roof, we are able to deliver the best service at the best price.
What is the difference between Tacoma Dentures and Implants and corporate implant centers?
At Tacoma Dentures and Implants, we have the same advantages of the corporate implant centers by limiting our practice to dental implants and prosthetics. We have an in-house lab, competitive pricing, and same day teeth. However, we are privately owned, and every patient will be seen by our doctor. We focus on the satisfaction of our patients instead of monthly quotas, cost cutting, and shareholders. At the corporate implant centers, there is no guarantee that you will be treated by the same dentist that has the great reviews or your friend recommended you see. Our doctor oversees your procedure from beginning to end and the team will do everything to make sure you are happy with your smile and take care of you like family.
What about mini dental implants? Or snap in dentures?
Mini dental implants are not even related to what we do at Tacoma Dentures and Implants for our All-On-4 teeth in a day procedure. Please proceed with caution at any office recommending mini dental implants as a permanent solution. They have a very high failure/complication rate.
Snap-in implant dentures are a good option for some patients. We also provide this service and have an entire page dedicated to these if you want to learn more. They can be a more affordable alternative to the All-On-4 Teeth in a Day dental implant procedure.
How often should I have my new teeth professionally cleaned?
You should come in every 6 months to have your teeth/implants checked and cleaned. This will help ensure the longevity of your new teeth and implants.
Can implants fail?
While titanium dental implants do have a 95+% success rate, yes, they can still fail. Some of the things that can cause them to fail:
- failure to integrate into the bone
- smoking
- diabetes
If an implant fails within the first year, your dentist will replace it at no charge to you.
Why am I salivating (drooling) so much?
This is completely normal when you first have a prosthesis placed in your mouth. Your body senses it as a foreign object and is trying to “flush” it out. This increased salivation should subside within 2-3 days.
Can I be put to sleep for my procedure?
We do not currently put patients to sleep, however, we do offer both oral & IV conscious sedation. To learn more about these options click here. This medication will help to relax you and often makes it so you don’t even remember your procedure. For this, we write you a prescription, and you can pick it up at your pharmacy of choice. NOTE: You MUST have a driver for this procedure, someone who can drive you after you have taken your oral sedation pill(s). You MUST NOT operate a motor vehicle or any machinery after taking your medication.
Are All-On-4 bridges always attached to the implants the day of the procedure?
Most cases will be attached immediately. In certain situation, mostly dependent on your bone quality and quantity, we will not be able to attach your bridge(s) the same day and you will need to wear a temporary healing denture while your implants integrate into the bone. Your doctor go over this in-depth at your evaluation.
How long will I bleed after the procedure?
Significant bleeding will have stopped before you leave the clinic, however, expect to have some slight bleeding (oozing) for 1-3 days after the procedure. In addition, you will most likely notice increased salivation when we first put your temporary teeth in. When this increased saliva mixes with a little blood, it can look like a lot of blood. If heavy bleeding continues, please call the office.
Will I know how to use my new teeth right away?
Just as you would need practice in order to get used to functioning with a prosthetic leg, it will require some practice and patience to get used to your prosthetic teeth. With that being said, since they are rigidly anchored to your jaw, All-On-4 teeth will be the easiest to get used to of all the full-arch replacement options.
Will I know how to speak with my new teeth right away?
Again, this will take a little time, but with some patience and practice, your mouth and tongue will quickly adjust. S’s will be the toughest to pronounce. Practicing words like “Mississippi” and “sixty six” will help you get used to your new teeth. In some cases, patients may have a slight lisp long term with All-On-4 upper teeth.
How long after my procedure should I wait to use a water flosser/Waterpik?
Patients should wait 6 weeks after their procedure before they begin cleaning with a water flosser.
I feel like I’m too young for this procedure?
No, this is not just a procedure for the elderly. It’s actually quite common for people in their 40s, 30, even 20s to need to replace their teeth. Replacing bad teeth can be hugely beneficial to your overall physical health, and being able to smile, laugh, and converse confidently with teeth you’re proud of can be hugely beneficial to your emotional health. Again, needing to replace teeth early in life is not uncommon at all.
What items should I have ready for after my procedure?
- ice packs
- wash cloths you don’t mind throwing away
- comfortable clothes you don’t mind throwing away
- soft foods (a good rule is you can eat anything you can cut with a fork)
What will my final teeth be made of?
We make the final bridge out of zirconia. Zirconia is much stronger and more resistant to staining and wear than traditional acrylic All-On-4 teeth that many offices provide. If you choose another office, make sure you know what kind of teeth you will be getting. If you do get acrylic denture teeth with a titanium bar at another office, expect to have staining around your teeth and to replace them every 5-10 years. Also, make sure you know how much you are going to pay for the surgery, temporaries, and final teeth. Many offices will charge you a surgery/temporary fee only for you to find you owe an additional $5,000-$15,000 for your final teeth.
How much does the All-On-4, "Teeth in a Day" procedure cost?
The total cost for a single arch (upper or lower) is $19,900. For both arches, the total cost is $39,000. These prices include removing any remaining teeth, placing your implants, same day fixed temporary teeth, and your fixed permanent zirconia teeth. Many offices will charge a surgery fee, temporary fee, and then surprise you at the end with another fee for your final teeth. Our pricing is completely transparent, and we will not surprise you with any additional costs.
How can I get fixed teeth in one day? I thought the implants had to heal?
What is unique about this procedure, and what allows us to attach to your implants from day one, is that all of your implants will be rigidly splinted together by your new teeth (the implant bridge). Splinting them together prevents the micro-movement of the implants that can lead to failure early on. Basically, your implants and bridge all support each other.
Your dental implants will be made of titanium, the same material used in artificial hip and knee joints, so your jawbone will naturally grow around and attach to them over time.
What if another dentist has said that you are not a candidate or do not have enough bone for dental implants?
The majority of patients that have been told they are not a candidates for dental implants are actually good candidates for the All-On-4 Teeth in a Day procedure. A combination of using angled implants and using the front of the jaw bone where the bone is more dense allows us to complete this procedure for many patients that thought it was not an option. We can usually perform this procedure without the need for expensive grafting that delays treatment by months or years. Please come see us for a complimentary consultation to see if you are a candidate.
Can the extractions, implants, and fixed teeth really be completed in the same day?
Yes! This is our preferred way of doing this procedure with the best outcome. With the advanced implants and materials that we have available today, there is usually no reason to have to wait months or even years to go through the process like you had to do in the past.
Is your doctor a specialist such as an oral surgeon, periodontist, or prosthodontist?
No, our doctor is a general dentist that limits their practice to dental implantology and prosthetics. Dental implantology is their passion, and they have placed more dental implants than most specialists and other general dentists. In a very select cases, they will collaborate with other dental specialists to ensure that their patients get the best possible treatment for their specific situation.
How can we offer the All-On-4, "Teeth in a Day" dental implant procedure for so much less than other offices in the area?
Because of the high number of these procedures we perform and limiting our practice to very specific procedures, we have advantages that other offices do not have. We have our in-house lab and lab technician and a single dentist that performs the entire procedure. Because of the efficiencies, we are able to offer these procedures for our patients at the most competitive pricing. Not only do we have the best prices, we also use the best quality implants and zirconia teeth.
Are there payment plans available?
Yes. We offer a variety of payment options including third party financing. We work with our patients in any way possible to get them smiling again.
Do you offer warranties or guarantees?
If a dental implant fails to integrate we will replace it at no cost. We warranty the final bridge for 5 years. To keep this warranty, our patients must return every 6 months for maintenance and hygiene of their bridges/implants. The warranty does not apply to patients that continue to smoke or have uncontrolled diabetes or develop other uncontrolled systemic conditions that compromise their implants.
How long does the procedure take?
Usually the surgery takes about 1 hour per arch. Then, the lab portion of making the teeth takes about 2 hours. If we start in the morning, for a single upper or lower arch patients are usually done around lunch time. If we are replacing both top and bottom teeth, we usually finish around 2:30 to 3:30 in the afternoon. Most of this time is waiting for the teeth to be made in our lab and trying them in to ensure your smile is just right. It is a long day, but will definitely be worth it in the end!
What if I don’t like my new teeth?
We do everything possible to ensure you love your new smile. The teeth you get the same day of surgery are only a temporary/transitional set. When we fabricate your final teeth, you will have full control of the design and appearance of your teeth.
What about some of these out of town offices in Florida, Las Vegas, etc. that are offering same day final teeth?
While this is a good service for many patients, in the rare case of complications or teeth breaking, it is very difficult to deal with if you traveled thousands of miles away or even out of the country. Most local offices will not be willing to fix these out of town offices work. A major advantage of having a transitional set of fixed teeth on the day of your surgery is you get to test them out and see what you like/don’t like. For the final zirconia or nano-ceramic teeth we can do try-ins to ensure that your teeth look exactly like you want them to look. While it’s great to get your final teeth immediately, it does come with some serious downsides that cannot be overlooked.
Do All-On-4 teeth rock (front to back, side to side)?
No, they are rigidly attached to your implants, which are firmly anchored in your jaw. If your All-On-4 teeth begin rocking for any reason, call us so we can bring you in for an evaluation.
Why do you call it teeth in a day when I don’t get my permanent teeth until 4-6 months after my procedure?
It is referred to as teeth in a day because you are receiving a set of implant-supported functional prosthetic temporary teeth in one day. Since there are often major changes in your mouth during the healing and implant integration phase, it is best to start with a temporary set up teeth. This ensures the best long-term outcome with your permanent teeth.
Can my temporary teeth be damaged?
Yes, your temporary teeth are made of acrylic and can chip, crack, and occasionally break. This is very common. The great thing about the acrylic temporary is that it can easily be repaired. If you have any issues with your temporary, just give us a call and we’ll get you fixed up right away.
Can my permanent teeth be damaged?
While it is possible for zirconia and nano-ceramic to be damaged, it’s extremely uncommon. Zirconia and nano-ceramic are among the strongest and most durable materials available in the dental world.
I already have an implant (or implants), can they be used for All-On-4?
Unfortunately, not. Since your existing implants will not be the correct position that this procedure requires, and since bone reduction will need to be performed, we can not use your existing implants and they will most likely need to be removed.
Are my All-On-4 bridges removable?
No, you can not remove these yourself. Only the dentist is able to remove them. They are secured to your implants.
Can food get under my All-On-4 bridge(s)?
Yes, any prosthetic in the mouth will get some amount of food under it. You can rinse with water to get food out from under your bridge(s), and cleaning every day with a water flosser will be part of your long-term hygiene regimen.
How long should I take off work for recovery after my procedure?
Of all full arch replacement options, All-On-4 tends to have the shortest time required before returning to work. Generally 4-7 days is sufficient. With that said, since there is always the chance of bruising and swelling, and you’ll need to get used to eating and speaking with your new teeth, the longer you can take off, the better.
Snap-In
Implant Dentures

How many implants will I need?
An upper implant denture requires at least 4 implants. A lower implant denture requires at least 2 implants. The more implants you have, the more stable your denture will generally be. This is especially true with the lower denture. Three or 4 implants in the lower is usually much better than 2.
How much do implant dentures cost?
For pricing information on snap-in implant dentures click here!
I’ve had dentures for a long time, can I still get implants?
In many cases, yes! We’ll just need to see you for a free consultation, during which we will do a 3D CBCT scan of your jaw to see if you have enough bone for dental implants.
Will I get to use my implants (snap my dentures on to them) the same day they’re placed?
No, we must allow time for your implants to integrate with your bone. This is what makes your implants truly stable and will help ensure you enjoy many years or decades of use out of them. We typically wait between 4 and 6 months before attaching to your implants.
Will there be pain after the procedure?
While experiences will vary, you should expect some discomfort and possibly swelling after your procedure. Many patients come in the next day for their post op appointment reporting very little discomfort. You will be prescribed pain medication to help alleviate any discomfort.
Can I be put to sleep for my procedure?
We do not currently put patients to sleep, however, we do offer both oral & IV conscious sedation. To learn more about these options click here. This medication will help to relax you and often makes it so you don’t even remember your procedure. For this, we write you a prescription, and you can pick it up at your pharmacy of choice. NOTE: You MUST have a driver for this procedure, someone who can drive you after you have taken your oral sedation pill(s). You MUST NOT operate a motor vehicle or any machinery after taking your medication.
Are implant dentures really secure?
Yes! They are much more secure than dentures alone, and we are able to increase the retention with stronger inserts if you prefer.
Can I remove the palate of the denture (roof of mouth)?
It depends. Ideally, we would need to spread the dental implants out to be able to remove a portion of the palate in a snap-in denture. With our All-On-4 procedure, we can guarantee the ability to remove the palate, but that's not always the case with snap-in dentures.
When we are able to remove the palate, this increases the ability to taste for many patients, and also increases hot and cold sensitivity, making for a more natural experience. For those patients with a severe gag reflex, removing the palate of the denture can also help provide relief.
When can I have the palate (middle part that covers roof of mouth) removed from my denture?
If you are a candidate for a palate-less denture, it will be removed from your final denture. This is after healing and osseointegration are complete and we are ready to attach to your implants (appromximately 4-6 months after placement of your implants).
How often will my implant inserts need to be changed?
Typically 1 to 2 times per year. This will depend on how many implants you have, how strong your bite is, how frequently you take your dentures in and out, and several other factors.
WARNING: PLEASE DO NOT BITE YOUR DENTURES INTO PLACE ON YOUR IMPLANTS! This will wear out your inserts significantly faster. Only place your implant dentures in by hand.
What is alveoloplasty? Why is it important?
Alveoplasty is a procedure where the doctor contours your jawbone. This procedure is important because it can significantly improve the fit and comfort of your dentures.
What are tori? Do they need to be removed?
Tori are bony knots that develop in the mouth of many patients. They are not harmful, however, they can prevent your denture(s) from fitting comfortably, so your doctor will often recommend having them removed.
Why am I salivating (drooling) so much?
This is completely normal when you first have a prosthesis (denture) placed in your mouth. Your body senses it as a foreign object and is trying to “flush” it out. This increased salivation should subside within 2-3 days.
How long will I bleed after the procedure?
Significant bleeding will have stopped before you leave the clinic, however, expect to have some slight bleeding (oozing) for 1-3 days after the procedure. In addition, you will most likely notice increased salivation when we first put your denture(s) in. When this increased saliva mixes with a little blood, it can look like a lot of blood. If heavy bleeding continues, please call the office.
An old home remedy that still works really well to help clotting and stop bleeding is the use of tea bags. Just get a regular tea bag, get it damp, squeeze out the excess water, place it on your extraction site or sites, and the bags will help you clot. Multiple tea bags can be used if needed. Replace the tea bags if they get saturated with blood. This process can be repeated as many times as you need.
Do you offer this procedure with zirconia (non-metal) implants?
We do not currently offer this type of implant. While titanium implants have been around for decades with a long track record of success, zirconia implants are very new to the market, so we do not know what their success will be like long-term. We want the most successful, most predictable long-term results for our patients, and for these reasons, we do not offer zirconia implants at this time.
Can food get under my implant dentures(s)?
Yes, any prosthetic in the mouth will get some amount of food under it. The great thing about implant dentures is how easy they are to clean. Just take them out; clean the denture(s), your gums, and implants; and snap them back in.
How long should I take off work for recovery after my procedure?
Every patient is different. Some return to work the next day, others wait a week or two. Since there is always the chance of bruising and swelling, and you’ll need to get used to eating and speaking with your new teeth, the longer you can take off, the better.
What is a soft liner?
A soft liner is a cushion we place inside your denture to help it fit and feel better as your mouth heals and changes shape following extractions.
Am I too young for this procedure?
No, this is not just a procedure for the elderly. It’s actually quite common for people in their 40s, 30s, even 20s to need to replace their teeth. Replacing bad teeth can be hugely beneficial to your overall physical health. Also, having teeth that allow you to confidently smile, laugh, and converse can be hugely beneficial to your emotional health. Again, needing to replace teeth early in life is not uncommon at all.
What items should I have ready for after my procedure?
- Ice packs
- Wash cloths you don’t mind throwing away
- Comfortable clothes you don’t mind throwing away
- Soft foods such as:
- soups
- yogurt
- cottage cheese
- smoothies
- protein shakes
- eggs
- mashed potatoes (gravy optional)
Once I have my implant teeth attached, will I know how to use them right away?
Just as you would need practice in order to get used to functioning with a prosthetic leg, it will require some practice and patience to get used to your new prosthetic teeth. With that being said, since they are attached with implants, your dentures will be much easier to get used to than regular dentures.
Will I know how to speak with my new teeth right away?
Again, this will take a little time, but with some patience and practice, your mouth and tongue will quickly adjust. S’s will be the toughest to pronounce. Practicing words like “Mississippi” and “sixty six” will help you get used to your new teeth. In some cases, patients may have a slight lisp long term with implant dentures.
Will my dentures still rock?
Some patients may experience very slight rocking with their dentures. For patient who have 2 lower implants, these must be placed in the front of the jaw making it possible for some rocking to occur. A dab of adhesive at the back on each side of the lower denture will usually take care of this.
I can’t stand having the roof of my mouth covered. What are my options?
In this case, your best bet would be the All-On-4 procedure. Not all snap-in dentures can have the palate removed.
Are implant dentures removable?
Yes. Having removable implant dentures makes cleaning them very convenient. Just take them out; clean the denture(s), your gums, and implants; and snap them back in.
Can implants fail?
While titanium dental implants do have a 95+% success rate, yes, they can still fail. Some of the things that can cause them to fail:
- failure to integrate into the bone
- smoking
- diabetes
If an implant fails within the first year, your dentist will replace it at no charge to you.
What is involved in maintenance of implant dentures?
- Snaps | Periodically you’ll need to change out the snap rings in your implant dentures. These wear and lose retention over time and as you take your teeth in and out. They’re quick and affordable to have changed out.
- Cleanings | Just like with natural teeth, you’ll need to have your implants cleaned periodically. Any buildup on your implants will be removed and your dentures will be cleaned.
- Periodic re-fittings | Your mouth will still change over time, so your dentures will need to be re-fitted to ensure their best performance and ensure that unnecessary stress isn’t being put on your implants.
- Home maintenance | It only takes a few minutes a day. Take your dentures out 1-2 times per day and brush them with a denture brush or very soft bristled toothbrush. Also, don’t forget to clean your implants. scrub these with a very soft dental brush also.
Single Tooth
Implants & Bridges

Do I need an implant for each of my missing teeth?
It depends. Since every case is unique, we'll need to see you for a consultation to figure out the best course of treatment for you.
Can you put a temporary crown or bridge on my implant the same day it’s placed?
At this time, we do not place temporary crowns or bridges on implants that have just been placed. The reason for this is that we want as little force being placed on the implants as possible while we wait for them to integrate with your jawbone.
How much do dental implants cost?
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most people are candidates for dental implants, even those who have been told they weren't in the past. Call us to schedule your consultation and let's see what we can do to get you smiling again.
What kind of after care will I need to perform with my dental implant(s)?
Care for them like natural teeth:
- Brush and floss twice a day.
- Get cleanings regularly at intervals recommended by your dentist.
What do implant teeth look like?
In the mouth, they look almost exactly like a natural tooth. The implant body (the screw) won't be visible in the mouth. It is under the gums in your bone.
Will it function and feel like a natural tooth?
Yes! It will feel different from a natural tooth but will function the same.
How long should I take off work for recovery after my procedure?
Most patients are able to return to work either the same day or the next day. Certain cases could require more time off from work.
What is the process for getting an implant?
The process is very straight forward. Your implant is placed into your jawbone and is left alone to integrate for 4-6 months. After this, we take impressions and have your tooth fabricated. If bone grafting is needed, this can increase treatment time.
Is my implant removable?
No, once your implant is completed, you will not be able to remove it.
Can I be put to sleep for my procedure?
We do not currently put patients to sleep, however, we do offer both oral & IV conscious sedation. To learn more about these options click here. This medication will help to relax you and often makes it so you don’t even remember your procedure. For this, we write you a prescription, and you can pick it up at your pharmacy of choice. NOTE: You MUST have a driver for this procedure, someone who can drive you after you have taken your oral sedation pill(s). You MUST NOT operate a motor vehicle or any machinery after taking your medication.
How long will I bleed after the procedure?
You may continue to bleed slightly for the first 24 hours after your implant placement. If you feel that you are bleeding more than you should be, please call the clinic.
An old home remedy that still works really well to help clotting and stop bleeding is the use of tea bags. Just get a regular tea bag, get it damp, ring out the excess water, place it on your extraction site or sites, and the tanic acid in the tea leaves will help you clot. Multiple tea bags can be used if needed. Replace the tea bags as they get saturated with blood. This process can be repeated as many times as you need.
Will there be pain after the procedure?
While experiences will vary, there could be some discomfort and possibly swelling after your procedure. Many patients report very little discomfort after their procedure. You will be prescribed pain medication to help alleviate any discomfort.
Do you offer this procedure with zirconia (non-metal) implants?
We do not currently offer this type of implant. While titanium implants have been around for decades with a long track record of success, zirconia implants are very new to the market, so we do not know what their success will be like long-term. We want the most successful, most predictable, best long-term results for our patients, and for these reasons, we do not offer zirconia implants at this time.
Can implants fail?
While titanium dental implants do have a 95+% success rate, yes, they can still fail. Some of the things that can cause them to fail:
- failure to integrate into the bone
- smoking
- diabetes
If an implant fails within the first year, your dentist will replace it at no charge to you.
Dentures

What are immediate dentures?
As the name implies, immediate dentures are those which are placed immediately after your natural teeth are taken out. They help control swelling and bleeding; they act like bandages over your extraction sites.
What is the process for getting immediate dentures?
The process typically takes 6 months, but can take longer for some patients.
- Impressions are taken before your procedure with your natural teeth still present. From these impressions, your dentures are fabricated.
- Procedure – your teeth are removed and your new teeth are placed.
- Series of soft liners (soft re-fittings) over 6 month healing period.
- Final re-fit (processed hard reline) at end of 6 month healing period.
What is it like getting used to immediate dentures?
The experience will be different for each patient, but it does require patience and practice. Your mouth will be going through significant changes over the 6 month healing phase. Remember, it does get easier with time and we are here for you throughout the process.
My friend's dentures look so fake. Will mine look that way?
Absolutely not. One of the common fears patients have is that their dentures won't look natural and people will know they're dentures. Our talented lab team will make sure you don't end up with "horse teeth" or "chiclets," just beautiful, naturally-looking teeth. No one will know.
How do dentures fit?
The fit of dentures largely depends on the anatomy of the person wearing them. Full upper dentures tend to fit relatively well, acting like a suction cup against the roof of the mouth. Full lower dentures tend to feel loose and have a tendency to "float" in the mouth since your tongue and cheeks are constantly working to dislodge them. It is for this reason that we strongly recommend dental implants with lower dentures.
How do I chew with my new dentures?
Cut your food up into small pieces, chew small bites, and chew with food on both sides of your dentures to even out your bite.
I can’t taste as much with my dentures. Is this normal?
Yes, the palate of a full upper denture covers the taste buds on the roof of the mouth reducing your taste sensitivity.
My lower denture is difficult to function with. Is this normal?
Yes, lower dentures are more difficult to function with than lower dentures. Your tongue and cheeks moving push and pull on your lower denture and dislodge it. Talk with your doctor to see if you’re a candidate for lower implants. They help tremendously with lower denture fit and function.
My dentures feel like they’re getting loose?
This is normal with immediate dentures. Your gums and jaws will shrink down after extractions. This leaves space between your dentures and gums. We place soft liners in your dentures to fill in this extra space. This should help them fit and feel better as you heal.
What are denture adjustments and how often will I need them?
New dentures will have certain spots that rub slightly and can cause sore spots. During a denture adjustment, we will pinpoint the spot(s) on your denture that are bothering you, reduce the amount of pressure they put on the tissue, and smooth them thoroughly. This is completely normal with all new dentures and one or more adjustment should be expected.
Is there a charge for denture adjustments?
We provide denture adjustments free of charge for the first 6 months after delivery of your final teeth or permanent hard reline. After this period, there is a small fee to adjust your dentures.
How do I care for my dentures?
- Clean them daily with antibacterial hand soap and either a denture brush or a very soft bristled tooth brush
- Store them in water when not in use
What do I use to clean my dentures?
- Either denture cleaner or antibacterial handsoap and either a denture brush or very soft bristled tooth brush. Scrub them at least once a day
- Soak them in a denture cleanser (optional)
- Ultrasonic cleaner
Should I take my dentures out when I sleep?
Yes, we do recommend taking your dentures out when you sleep and also whenever you can throughout the day. This gives your gums time to “rest” and get natural, cleansing saliva flow to them. Also, if you naturally grind your teeth, taking your dentures out will help you increase their usable life significantly.
Can I boil my dentures to clean them?
No! Do not boil your dentures to clean them. The heat can warp your dentures. If this happens, you will have to replace them.
Can my dentures be damaged?
Yes, your dentures are made from acrylic teeth and an acrylic base. While these materials are very strong, they can be damaged. Be careful not to drop your dentures, especially onto porcelain sinks, ceramic tiles, etc.
One of the most common ways dentures are damaged beyond repair is when a dog (or sometimes cat) gets ahold of them. Pets and animals love to chew on dentures and can often damage them beyond repair very quickly. Be extra careful to put your dentures up where your pet can’t get to them.
If my dentures are damaged, can they be repaired?
Yes, in most cases they can. One of the great features of acrylic dentures is the ease and affordability of repairing them compared to other materials. And in most cases, repairs can be completed the same day.
Will there be pain after the procedure?
While experiences will vary, you should expect some discomfort and possibly swelling after your procedure. Many patients come in the next day for their post op appointment reporting very little discomfort. You will be prescribed pain medication to help alleviate any discomfort.
Why am I salivating (drooling) so much?
This is completely normal when you first have a prosthesis placed in your mouth. Your body senses it as a foreign object and is trying to “flush” it out. This increased salivation should subside within 2-3 days.
Can I be put to sleep for my procedure?
We do not currently put patients to sleep, however, we do offer both oral & IV conscious sedation. To learn more about these options click here. This medication will help to relax you and often makes it so you don’t even remember your procedure. For this, we write you a prescription, and you can pick it up at your pharmacy of choice. NOTE: You MUST have a driver for this procedure, someone who can drive you after you have taken your oral sedation pill(s). You MUST NOT operate a motor vehicle or any machinery after taking your medication.
What are full dentures?
Full dentures are dentures that replace all of your natural teeth in either the upper arch, lower arch, or both.
What are partial dentures?
Partial dentures are dentures that replace some of your missing teeth in an arch. They typically attach to the surrounding, natural teeth for stability and support.
What are the advantages of dentures?
- Improved confidence | Great looks and a new smile.
- Looks | Dentures provide great looks and are easily customized for each individual.
- Facial support | Dentures help to fill back out areas of the face that have sunken in following tooth loss.
- Improved nutrition | Improved chewing ability leads to better digestion and improved nutrition.
- Affordability | Dentures are the most cost-effective way to replace a full arch (upper or lower) or a full mouth of teeth.
- Improved quality of life
What are the differences in your denture levels?
Our dentures offer better wear resistance, better stain resistance, and longer warranties as you go up in levels.
Will I know how to eat with my new teeth right away?
Just as you would need practice in order to get used to functioning with a prosthetic leg, it will require some practice and patience to get used to your prosthetic teeth. Patience and practice are the keys to improving with your new dentures as quickly as possible.
Will I know how to speak with my new teeth right away?
Again, this will take a little time, but with some patience and practice, your mouth and tongue will quickly adjust. S’s will be the toughest to pronounce. Practicing words like “Mississippi” and “sixty six” will help you get used to your new teeth. In some cases, patients may have a slight lisp long term with dentures.
Can food get under my dentures(s)?
Yes, any prosthetic in the mouth will get some amount of food under it. The convenient thing about dentures is how easy they are to clean. Just take them out; clean the denture(s) and your gums; and place them back in.
How long should I take off work for recovery after my procedure?
Every patient is different. Some return to work the next day, others wait a week or two. Since there is always the chance of bruising and swelling, and you’ll need to get used to eating and speaking with your new teeth, the longer you can take off, the better.
What is a soft liner?
A soft liner is a cushion that is placed in your denture throughout the healing process. It fills in the spaces that are created as you heal helping your dentures to fit and feel better.
I feel like I’m too young for this procedure?
No, this is not just a procedure for the elderly. It’s actually quite common for people in their 40s, 30, even 20s to need to replace their teeth. Replacing bad teeth can be hugely beneficial to your overall physical health, and being able to smile, laugh, and converse confidently with teeth you’re proud of can be hugely beneficial to your emotional health. Again, needing to replace teeth early in life is not uncommon at all.
What items should I have ready for after my procedure?
- ice packs
- wash cloths you don’t mind throwing away
- comfortable clothes you don’t mind throwing away
- soft foods such as:
- soups
- yogurt
- cottage cheese
- smoothies
- protein shakes
- eggs
- mashed potatoes (gravy optional)
Can I have the palate (middle part that covers roof of mouth) removed from my denture?
The majority of the palate of the denture needs to stay. Cutting this out removes a great deal of stability and almost all of your natural suction. A portion of the palate may be removed for patients with denture implants.
What is alveoloplasty? Why is it important?
The majority of the palate of the denture needs to stay. Cutting this out removes a great deal of stability and almost all of your natural suction. A good portion of the palate can be removed for patients with denture implants.
What are tori? Do they need to be removed?
Tori are bony knots that develop in the mouth of many patients. They are not harmful, however, they can prevent your denture(s) from fitting comfortably, so your doctor will often recommend having them removed.
How long will I bleed after the procedure?
Significant bleeding will have stopped before you leave the clinic, however, expect to have some slight bleeding (oozing) for 1-3 days after the procedure. In addition, you will most likely notice increased salivation when we first put your temporary teeth in. When this increased saliva mixes with a little blood, it can look like a lot of blood. If heavy bleeding continues, please call the office.
An old home remedy that still works really well to help clotting and stop bleeding is the use of tea bags. Just get a regular tea bag, get it damp, ring out the excess water, place it on your extraction site or sites, and the tea bags will help you clot. Multiple tea bags can be used if needed. Replace the tea bags as they get saturated with blood. This process can be repeated as many times as you need.
My dentures make my gums sore, what can I do for this?
There are several things that can cause sore gums: high pressure spots, movement of the denture(s), and just plain old wearing the dentures.
- High pressure spots | these are normal with new dentures and typically just require simple adjustments
- Movement of the denture(s) | this can rub sores on your gums over time. Securing your dentures with implants significantly reduces this issue.
- Wearing dentures | dentures are foreign to your body. They are a wonderful replacement for missing teeth, but they can still irritate the body after a long day. Consider setting aside time to take your dentures out and give your gum tissue a chance to "rest."
Will my dentures rock?
Yes, this is possible. Dental implants can provide the stability that is missing with dentures alone. Click here for more info.
Denture adhesive can also be helpful for some patients.
I can’t stand having the roof of my mouth covered. What are my options?
Dental implants can provide the stability you need. Click here for more info.
Are immediate dentures removable?
Yes, they are removable. They come in and out of the mouth and are kept in place either by natural suction for the upper or denture adhesive. Not all patients will have natural suction with their upper denture for a number of reasons (palatal torus, flat palate, bone loss, etc.)
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