Temporary vs Permanent Dentures: What’s the Difference (Really)?
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A lot of people are told they’re getting “temporary” dentures and later “permanent” ones — but no one really explains what that actually means.
If you’re confused about which you have, or why things feel different than expected, this guide is for you.
What Are Temporary (Immediate) Dentures?
Temporary dentures are usually given:
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right after extractions
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while your gums and bone are still healing
They’re sometimes called:
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immediate dentures
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healing dentures
What they’re meant to do
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give you teeth during healing
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protect the gums
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help you eat and speak early on
They are not meant to be perfect.
What’s Normal With Temporary Dentures
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fit changing quickly
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looseness over weeks or months
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sore spots that need adjustments
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needing relines or soft liners
This happens because your gums are actively shrinking and reshaping. The dentures aren’t “failing” — your mouth is changing.
What Are Permanent Dentures?
Permanent dentures are made:
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after most healing is complete
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once gum and bone changes slow down
They’re designed for:
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better long-term fit
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more stable bite
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longer wear
That said — permanent doesn’t mean forever without changes.
A Common Misunderstanding
Many people think:
“Once I get permanent dentures, everything should feel perfect forever.”
In reality:
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mouths continue to change slowly over time
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relines and adjustments are still normal
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dentures are maintained, not just installed
This is true for all denture types.
How to Tell Which You Have
You might still have temporary dentures if:
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you got them right after extractions
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you’re within the first year
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fit has changed noticeably
You might have permanent dentures if:
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they were made months after healing
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adjustments are less frequent
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your provider described them as final
If you’re unsure, that’s okay — many people aren’t clearly told.
A Gentle Reminder
Temporary dentures don’t mean “bad dentures.”
Permanent dentures don’t mean “no more changes.”
Both are part of a process.
What to Read Next
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Why Dentures Feel Loose Over Time
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What Type of Dentures Do I Have?
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How Long Does It Take to Adjust to Dentures?