going from temporary to permanent dentures....

The adjustment to permanent dentures is a breeze compared to the adjustment to immediate dentures -- much shorter and much easier.  Usually, just a few adjustments for a few sores and you are done!

I have learned that getting a second denture to look just like a first one is more art than science.  Although my first permanent denture looks nothing like my immediate denture did (and I wanted it that way), my dentist and his lab have been working hard and long to get my second permanent denture to look just (or pretty much) like my second denture.  Our goal is for me to have two functional dentures at all times so that, in case of a problem, I have a back up and, even in the absence of a problem, I don't have to worry that there might be a problem.  Despite having started with the exact same set of teeth (which are purchased by the lab) and using the same technician at the same lab, it has taken numerous tries and one complete "do over" to get the second set to look like the first.  We're almost done -- the second set is being processed by the lab (although it may still need a few cosmetic touch-ups even after it is processed).  It's all in the placement of the teeth (rather than in the selection of the teeth which determines color and shape) and the placement is done by hand.  It is amazing how different the same set of teeth can look when placed even slightly differently.  But, it can be done!

In order to maximize your chances of getting the same look for your permanent dentures, I would advise using the same dentist for them as you did for your immediate dentures and emphasizing to him or her exactly what you want and insisting that "study models" of your temporary dentures be made and sent to the lab for reference by the lab technician. Then, you need to really check out the wax-ups of your new dentures (including in various positions and from various angles).  If you are not happy, identify what is wrong and ask that it be fixed.  You may get lucky -- they might be the same on the first try.  If not, keep after them and you will get what you want.

My suggestion is to get a soft line for your immediate denture to improve its fit and function while you are waiting for your permanent dentures.  That will make you more comfortable and take some pressure off you and your dentist while your new dentures are made and, if necessary, give you the patience to be sure that you get what you want.

Good luck (and let us know how you do).

I'm Karen, the Fixodent Community Manager.  It's great to hear you love your teeth!  I believe some dentists will allow you to choose the color and shape of your dentures.  Be sure to let your dentist know how you want your dentures to look, and that you want them to look as close as possible to your immediate dentures.  I'm guessing you'll be just as pleased with your permanent dentures, maybe even more pleased with them, since they'll fit better.  And I think the adjustment to permanent dentures should be easier than the adjustment to immediate dentures, because your gums have healed and the muscles of your mouth already know how to hold dentures in place.  I wish you the best and let us know when you get your new teeth! 

We've got a great group of people here on the message board.  Others, please share your experiences transitioning from imemdiate to permanent dentures.  We'd love to hear from you!  Thanks!

^Karen