When the remaining upper teeth cannot be saved, a full upper denture can replace them, either immediately after extraction or once the tissues have healed. This educational case note describes a full upper acrylic denture provided at Greenvale Dental House following extraction. It is general information only; results vary and a clinical consultation is needed to assess suitability.
Presenting Clinical Problem
A patient presented to Greenvale Dental House with deteriorating upper teeth that were no longer restorable.
- Generalised discolouration across the upper teeth
- Progressive breakdown and deterioration of the upper teeth
- Long-term functional and appearance concerns with the remaining upper dentition
Assessment determined that extraction and a full upper denture were an appropriate treatment. The primary objective was a full upper denture following extraction.
Treatment Approach
Planning began with a comprehensive examination and radiographs to confirm the prognosis of the upper teeth.
Assessment and planning
- Evaluation of the remaining tooth structure and prognosis
- Discussion of extraction and denture replacement versus alternative treatments
- Planning full upper extraction with an immediate or conventional denture
- Pre-extraction impressions if an immediate denture was planned
Extraction and healing
- Extraction of the remaining upper teeth under appropriate anaesthesia
- Immediate denture placement or a healing period, depending on the plan
- Post-extraction care instructions and healing monitoring
- Assessment of soft-tissue healing over an appropriate timeframe
- Preparation for final impressions once healing was sufficient
Final fabrication and delivery
- Primary and secondary impressions after tissue healing
- Jaw relationship records and vertical dimension establishment
- Tooth selection for shade, size and shape
- A try-in appointment to check appearance and function
- Delivery of the final denture with aftercare instructions
Clinical Outcome
A full upper acrylic denture was fabricated and delivered after extraction and healing. At review, denture retention and function were assessed as adequate, and the patient was maintaining appropriate denture hygiene.
Individual results vary after full extractions. The ridge remodels over roughly 6 to 12 months with significant tissue and bone change, so early dentures often need relining as healing progresses. Retention depends on ridge anatomy, saliva and muscle control. Outcomes cannot be guaranteed, and suitability is determined at a clinical consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between immediate and conventional dentures?
An immediate denture is placed straight after extraction so the patient is not without teeth while healing, but it needs frequent adjustment as the tissues change over the 6 to 12 month healing period. A conventional denture is made after healing is more complete (often two to three months after extraction), which allows a more predictable fit. The choice depends on individual circumstances.
How long does it take to adjust to full dentures?
Adaptation varies, often taking several weeks to several months. Early challenges can include altered speech, eating differently and general awareness of the denture. Some people adapt within weeks; others need months of practice and several adjustments. A denture cannot copy natural teeth exactly, so realistic expectations help.
Will I need denture adhesive?
This varies between patients. Those with favourable ridge anatomy and adequate saliva may get enough retention without adhesive, while patients with flat ridges or a dry mouth often use adhesive to improve retention. Using adhesive reflects individual anatomy rather than poor denture quality.
