When faced with the need for new dentures, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the different options available. Two of the most commonly confused choices are immediate dentures and same-day dentures. While they may sound similar, they’re actually very different treatments designed for different needs.
At Kevin Manners Denture Clinics, we regularly help patients understand which denture service best suits their lifestyle, budget, and dental health. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences, benefits, drawbacks, and costs of both immediate and same-day dentures so you can make an informed decision.
What Are Immediate Dentures?
Immediate dentures are dentures that are fitted straight after your natural teeth are extracted. Instead of waiting weeks or months for your gums to heal, you’ll walk out of the clinic the same day with dentures already in place.
Benefits of Immediate Dentures:
- Instant smile restoration – no need to go without teeth during the healing period.
- Protection for your gums – they act as a “bandage” after extractions, reducing bleeding and protecting sensitive tissue.
- Confidence booster – you can carry on with daily life without worrying about gaps in your smile.
Drawbacks of Immediate Dentures:
- Fit changes over time – as gums shrink during healing, adjustments or relines are often needed.
- Multiple appointments – follow-up visits are required to keep them comfortable.
- Short-term solution – many patients transition from immediate dentures to a permanent set once healing is complete.
“Immediate dentures are best thought of as a temporary stage, giving you the confidence to smile and eat while your mouth heals.”
What Are Same-Day Dentures?
Same-day dentures (sometimes called “dentures in a day”) are new dentures created and fitted in just one day, without the need for multiple visits over weeks. At Kevin Manners Denture Clinics, we use advanced technology and on-site dental labs to make this possible.
Unlike immediate dentures, same-day dentures aren’t necessarily linked to extractions. They’re ideal if you already wear dentures and want a new, better-fitting set quickly.
Benefits of Same-Day Dentures:
- Fast turnaround – perfect if you’re short on time or want results immediately.
- Custom-made fit – impressions are taken in the morning; dentures created in the lab and fitted later the same day.
- Convenience – no need to schedule multiple appointments.
Drawbacks of Same-Day Dentures:
- Not suitable for complex cases – for patients needing extractions or advanced work, a longer process may be required.
- Adjustment period – as with all dentures, they may need minor tweaks after fitting.
Immediate vs. Same-Day Dentures: Key Differences
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to make it clearer:
| Feautre | Immediate Dentures | Same-day Dentures |
| When fitted | Immediately after tooth extraction | Made and fitted in one day |
| Purpose | Temporary solution while gums heal | Permanent replacement dentures made quickly |
| Best for | Patients needing extractions | Existing denture wearers wanting a fast new set |
| Adjustments | Likely needed due to gum shrinkage | Minor adjustments only |
| Timeline | Transitional stage before final dentures | One-day process with lasting results |
Costs of Immediate vs. Same-Day Dentures
The cost of dentures depends on materials, complexity, and how quickly you need them. Generally:
- Immediate dentures may involve additional costs due to multiple adjustments, relines, or eventual replacement with a permanent set.
- Same-day dentures can sometimes cost more upfront due to the speed and technology involved, but they may save money long-term by reducing the number of visits.
According to the NHS, dentures are available under Band 3 dental treatment at a standard fee, but private clinics offer more natural-looking, durable, and customised options with prices varying widely depending on needs (NHS guide to dentures).
For more detailed information on pricing, visit our page on the cost of dentures.
Which Option Is Right for You?
When choosing between immediate and same-day dentures, consider:
- Do you need extractions? If yes, immediate dentures will likely be required.
- Are you replacing old dentures? Same-day dentures may be the quickest solution.
- What’s your budget? Immediate dentures may require additional costs over time.
- How important is speed? Same-day dentures are the fastest option for a finished set.
At Kevin Manners Denture Clinics, we specialise in same-day dentures. In your free consultation, we will guide you through the process to ensure you choose the right option for you.
Your Smile, Your Choice: Deciding Between Immediate and Same-Day Dentures
Both immediate dentures and same-day dentures can restore your smile quickly, but they serve very different purposes. Immediate dentures act as a temporary bridge during healing after extractions, while same-day dentures are designed to give you a permanent, natural-looking set in just one day.
If you’re unsure which is right for you, we recommend booking a free consultation with our expert team. We’ll talk you through your options, costs, and the best path to a confident smile.