Dentures and Implants Timeline - An Overview

Smile Stop Dentures and Implants

Dec 8, 20244 min read

A dental professional points to a denture and implant model as a patient holds it. — Smile Stop Dentures & Implants discusses an overview of the timeline for getting dentures or implants.

When considering dentures or dental implants, one of the most common concerns people have is how long the process will take. Whether it’s replacing missing teeth or enhancing your smile, understanding the timeline can help you make informed decisions and ease any anxieties you might have. At Smile Stop Dentures & Implants, we want you to feel confident and comfortable during every step of your journey.

Let’s dive into the process of getting dentures or implants and break it down into manageable steps, so you know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: The Initial Consultation

Timeframe: 1 Day

The journey begins with a consultation at Smile Stop Dentures & Implants. During this visit, you’ll meet with our experienced dental team to discuss your goals, medical history, and overall oral health. This is the time to ask any questions about the procedure, costs, and expected outcomes.

What Happens During the Consultation?

Comprehensive oral examination, including X-rays or 3D imaging.
Discussion of your options: dentures, implant-supported dentures, or traditional dental implants.
Customized treatment plan tailored to your needs and timeline.

In most cases, the consultation takes only a couple of hours, and you’ll leave with a clear plan for moving forward.

Step 2: Preparation and Pre-Treatment

Timeframe: 1–4 Weeks (Varies)

Before the procedure begins, there may be some preparatory steps required. This phase ensures that your mouth is ready for dentures or implants and that the process will go as smoothly as possible.

Possible Pre-Treatments Include:

Tooth Extractions: If you have damaged or decayed teeth that need to be removed, this step will occur before dentures or implants can be placed. Healing from extractions typically takes 1–2 weeks.
Bone Grafting (if needed): For patients with insufficient jawbone density, a bone graft might be necessary to provide a strong foundation for implants. This can extend the timeline by a few months as the graft needs time to heal.
Mouth Impressions: For dentures, precise impressions of your gums and teeth are taken to create a perfect fit.

This phase may take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on your individual needs.

Step 3: Implant Placement (For Dental Implants Only)

Timeframe: 1 Day + Healing Time (3–6 Months)

If you’ve chosen dental implants, the next step is the surgical placement of the titanium implant posts into your jawbone. This is a straightforward outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia or sedation.

What Happens During Implant Surgery?

The dental surgeon places the implant posts into your jawbone.
Temporary crowns or dentures may be provided while you heal.

The healing period, known as osseointegration, is critical because it allows the implants to fuse with your jawbone, creating a strong, stable foundation. This process can take 3–6 months, depending on your bone health and individual healing speed. During this time, you’ll have periodic check-ups to monitor your progress.

Step 4: Denture or Crown Fabrication

Timeframe: 1–2 Weeks

For traditional dentures, the fabrication process begins after your mouth has healed from extractions. Impressions taken earlier are used to create your custom dentures, ensuring a comfortable fit and natural appearance.

For implant-supported dentures or crowns, this step occurs after the implant posts have fully integrated with your jawbone. Your dentist will take final impressions to design your permanent crowns or dentures.

This process usually takes 1–2 weeks, depending on the complexity of your case and the lab’s schedule.

Step 5: Placement of Dentures or Final Crowns

Timeframe: 1 Day

The big day has arrived! Once your dentures or crowns are ready, they’ll be carefully fitted and adjusted to ensure optimal comfort and functionality.

What Happens During Placement?

For dentures, the dentist will ensure they fit snugly and provide instructions on care and use.
For dental implants, the permanent crowns are attached to the implant posts.

By the end of this appointment, you’ll have a fully restored smile and improved oral function.

Step 6: Post-Placement Adjustments and Healing

Timeframe: 1–2 Weeks

After placement, it’s normal to experience some minor discomfort as your mouth adjusts. You’ll likely need to return for follow-up appointments to fine-tune the fit of your dentures or crowns. These adjustments ensure long-term comfort and effectiveness.

For implant patients, the gums around the implants will continue to heal, and your dentist will provide guidance on how to care for your new teeth.

Factors That May Affect the Timeline

While the steps above outline a typical timeline, it’s important to remember that every patient is unique. Factors that can influence the duration of the process include:

Oral Health: Pre-existing conditions like gum disease may require treatment before proceeding.
Bone Health: Patients with insufficient jawbone density may require additional procedures like bone grafting.
Type of Dentures or Implants: Implant-supported dentures typically take longer than traditional removable dentures.
Healing Speed: Individual healing times can vary based on age, health, and lifestyle factors.

Your dentist will keep you informed throughout the process, so you’ll always know what to expect.

Benefits of Dentures and Implants

Although the process can take some time, the benefits of dentures and implants make it well worth the effort:

Restored Confidence: Enjoy smiling, speaking, and eating without worry.
Improved Oral Function: Implants provide a stable, natural feel, while dentures restore bite and chewing ability.
Long-Term Investment: With proper care, dentures and implants can last for years, offering a durable solution to missing teeth.

Why Choose Smile Stop Dentures & Implants?

At Smile Stop Dentures & Implants, we understand that the journey to a new smile can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re committed to providing compassionate care, transparent communication, and exceptional results. Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

If you’re ready to regain your smile and confidence, contact Smile Stop Dentures & Implants today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you achieve the smile of your dreams!

By understanding the timeline for dentures or implants, you can approach the process with confidence and clarity. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution or a long-term investment, Smile Stop Dentures & Implants is here to help every step of the way.