Patients who lose one or more teeth may seek the easiest, most affordable option to restore their smile. One such option that some people settle on is temporary dentures, many of which can be bought over the counter. These kits are available for purchase online and at drug stores and can be a convenient way for patients to remedy their smiles.
However, the results of many temporary dentures are not ideal. They are not long-lasting, can be uncomfortable, and look unnatural because of the poor fit.
What Are Temporary Dentures?
These dentures are typically used as the first set after teeth removal. They can also be over-the-counter dentures that your dentist does not design.
When dentists perform tooth extractions, they may offer you a temporary denture to protect the gums during healing and help you continue your daily routine as usual. These are made to last 6 to 12 months and allow patients to eat and perform their daily activities while they heal.
Biggest Issues with Temporary Dentures
1. They may be uncomfortable, and their long-term use could cause further issues.
Temporary dentures are typically used immediately after a dental extraction procedure. After tooth extraction, your gums may be swollen, and your mouth may need to adjust to the missing tooth. If more than one tooth is extracted, the bones within a patient’s smile may change, and dentures might not fit perfectly. Temporary dentures are designed to be an immediate measure to protect the gums and ensure patients can still eat and talk after surgery. They are not meant for an extended period since they may need additional re-adjustment and can become painful and uncomfortable.
Getting dentures from a dentist may be more comfortable than over-the-counter dentures. These are one size fits all dentures and may never fully adjust to your smile. They work as veneers that do not always include a pink gum material attached to the artificial teeth and can look unnatural due to their thickness. They also do not provide the same support as professionally made dentures.
2. They are not a permanent solution.
Since temporary dentures may not fit perfectly or last very long, they may require multiple adjustments and replacements. With this may come a higher cost. Patients should search for different restoration options once they have worn temporary dentures.
3. Positioning may be incorrect.
Patients who opt for over-the-counter options may have difficulty positioning the dentures and working with a denture kit. Sometimes, these dentures may come pre-made and feel uncomfortable due to their general fitness. Others may offer the option of a custom fit, but it will be hard to position without the knowledge of a professional.
What Are Affordable Alternatives to Dentures?
Temporary dentures may not be the most cost-friendly solution for patients looking to enhance their smiles in the long run. They may need additional care and replacement, requiring patients to spend money on a short-term fix every few weeks. Patients missing many teeth may benefit significantly from overdentures or dental implants. These semi-permanent options do not need regular replacement, function like natural teeth and are highly comfortable. They may be costly upfront but will not require multiple adjustments or replacements.
Immediate dentures may be ideal for patients needing a quick solution to their missing teeth, but many other options are available with patience.