Denture fabrication is a detailed and personalized process designed to restore the natural function and appearance of your teeth. Whether you need full or partial dentures, the journey from consultation to final delivery involves several carefully planned appointments to ensure the best results.
The duration of the denture fabrication process may vary depending on individual circumstances, typically taking between three to five appointments.
Appointment #1: Initial Consultation
Examination: During this visit, the dentist will evaluate your oral health, including the condition of your gums and any remaining teeth. This assessment helps to determine the most suitable type of denture (full, partial, immediate, etc.) based on your needs. The dentist will also discuss your aesthetic preferences and goals and recommend the most appropriate materials for your denture.
Cost: Our front desk staff will verify whether your dental insurance covers the cost of dentures or partial dentures. If your insurance does not cover the treatment, you can pay out-of-pocket. The cost will vary depending on the materials and lab used. Denture fabrication costs are covered for enrolled Swinomish Tribal members.
Before proceeding with dentures, a Lab Fee Agreement must be signed. Our team will help you understand your payment options and provide an estimate based on your needs.
Appointment #2: Digital Impressions
Intraoral Scanning: Using an intraoral scanner, the dental assistant will capture accurate 3D digital impressions of your upper and lower arches. This technique eliminates the need for traditional impression materials and trays.
Virtual Models: The scanned data is processed to create a detailed 3D model of your teeth and gums. This model will then be sent to the dental lab for further processing.
Appointment #3: Bite Registration
Capturing the Bite: Accurate bite registration is essential for ensuring your dentures fit comfortably and function properly, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. During this appointment, the dentist will record how your upper and lower teeth align, using either traditional materials (such as silicone or wax) or advanced digital technology.
Designing the Denture: After obtaining the digital impressions and bite registration, the lab technician will create a wax denture to ensure proper fit and function.
Appointment #4: Try-In Denture
Try-In Denture: A wax denture is created for you to try on, allowing you to assess its fit, comfort, and appearance before it is finalized.
Finalizing the Design: During this appointment, you can provide feedback on the aesthetics, tooth position, and overall comfort. Any necessary adjustments will be made, and once finalized, the permanent denture will be fabricated. In some cases, a few Try-In appointments may be needed to achieve the perfect fit.
Appointment #5: Denture Delivery
Permanent Denture: The final denture is placed in your mouth to ensure the fit, function, and aesthetics are correct. If any minor adjustments are necessary, they will be made during this appointment. You’ll also sign the denture acceptance paperwork.
Care Instructions: The dental assistant will provide detailed instructions on how to clean, maintain, and care for your new dentures.
Follow-Up Visits
If you experience any discomfort or notice that the denture does not fit properly, follow-up appointments can be scheduled to make any necessary adjustments.
Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures are placed on the same day your teeth are extracted, providing you with an immediate solution while your gums heal. This option is especially important when front teeth are involved, as these are areas where aesthetics matter most and going without teeth is not ideal. The process typically begins with an examination and digital impressions, similar to the process for permanent dentures.
Tooth Extraction and Immediate Denture Fitting: After tooth extraction, the immediate denture is delivered, allowing you to have a complete smile immediately.
Follow-Up Visits: As your gums heal and change shape, your immediate denture may require several adjustments to maintain comfort and proper fit.
Transition to Permanent Denture: After about 3 to 6 months, when healing is complete, your dentist will begin making your permanent denture. Permanent dentures are typically more precise, stable, and comfortable because they're made after your gums and bone have settled. Immediate dentures are a good short-term option, especially for aesthetics, but they don’t fit as well or last as long as the final permanent dentures.