Surgical dentures are constructed prior to the extraction of the existing natural teeth and inserted immediately after the extractions. Immediate dentures allow the wearer to adapt to the dentures right away and to avoid the embarrassment of not having any teeth during the healing period. The dentures also help to control the bleeding and swelling following surgery.

The gums will continue to shrink during the initial healing period of about six months, during which time temporary liners are used to help maintain the fit of the denture. When the gums have stopped changing, the immediate denture will require a permanent reline to ensure a proper fit and provide a hygienic surface for the denture. Sometimes the denture teeth will have to be reset if excessive amount of tissue change has occurred.