July 19, 2026
Stepping into our clinic in Maida Vale often starts with a single, heartfelt goal: getting your smile back to exactly how it used to be. Whether you’ve spent years strolling through the peaceful canal-side paths of Little Venice or you’re a busy professional commuting daily from Warwick Avenue, losing natural teeth can feel like a massive hurdle. One of the most frequent questions we hear during a first chat in the dentist’s chair is, “How long does it take to get dentures?”
It is a completely fair question. You want to know when you can go back to enjoying a Sunday roast at your favourite St John’s Wood bistro or speaking with total confidence during a big presentation in Paddington. The truth is, crafting a high-quality prosthetic isn’t an overnight job, and for good reason. It is a bespoke process that requires several stages to ensure the final result fits comfortably and looks completely natural. While every mouth is different, most of our patients in West London can expect the journey to span roughly four to six weeks from that very first scan to the final fitting.
For a conventional set of dentures, we usually look at a window of about a month and a half. This might seem like a long time when you are eager to see results, but this period allows for the technical precision that prevents your dentures from slipping or clicking later on. We always start with a detailed initial assessment where we examine the health of your gums and any remaining teeth. If you are looking to explore cosmetic dentistry treatments at our Maida Vale clinic, this is the perfect moment to discuss how your new dentures will sit alongside other aesthetic goals.
Once we have a solid plan, we take highly detailed impressions or digital scans of your mouth. These aren’t just “pictures”; they are the blueprints for your new smile. These are sent to our partner laboratory, where master technicians begin the heavy lifting. Over the following weeks, you’ll pop back into our clinic near Kilburn for a series of “try-in” sessions. These are vital because they allow us to play around with the shape, colour, and bite of the teeth while they are still in a temporary wax base.
It is important to remember that not every patient follows a “cookie-cutter” schedule. Several factors can speed up or slow down the clock. For instance, if you require some tooth extractions before your new smile can be fitted, the timeline naturally extends. Your gums need time to settle, and the underlying bone needs to stabilise. Usually, we recommend waiting a few months after extractions for “permanent” dentures to ensure the fit remains accurate as your jaw shape subtly changes during the healing phase.
However, we know that living without teeth for months just isn’t an option for most people in West London. This is where “immediate dentures” come into the picture. These are prepared in advance and fitted on the very same day your teeth are removed. While they provide an instant fix, they often require more frequent “re-lining” or adjustments later on as your mouth heals and changes shape.
The type of prosthetic you choose also dictates the schedule. A simple partial denture to fill a small gap for someone living in Paddington might be ready significantly sooner than a full set of top and bottom dentures. If you decide to learn more about our dental implants in Maida Vale, you might find that implant-retained dentures take a bit longer due to the surgical healing phase, though the rock-solid stability they offer is often worth the extra wait. If you’re curious about all the options, you can learn more about our dentures to see which style fits your lifestyle best.
We work with some of the best dental technicians in London who take immense pride in their craft. During busy periods, or if your case requires particularly intricate customisation—like matching a very specific tooth shade or gum texture—the laboratory phase might take a few extra days. We always keep our patients from St John’s Wood and Warwick Avenue in the loop if there are any updates to the expected delivery date.
A common mistake is thinking you just show up, get a mould taken, and pick up your finished teeth a week later. In reality, the “try-in” stage is where the real work happens. We use a wax version of your dentures so you can see exactly how the teeth look in your mouth before anything is made permanent.
We often encourage patients to bring a trusted friend or family member to this appointment at our Maida Vale practice. We check how the teeth support your lips and cheeks—because dentures actually help maintain your facial structure—and we make sure you can speak clearly. If a tooth looks a bit too long or the shade isn’t quite right, we can change it right then and there in the wax. Once the final denture is cast in acrylic, making those changes becomes much more difficult. Taking the time to get it right here saves a lot of headaches later.
Once the final fitting happens, your journey isn’t quite over, and that’s okay! Almost every patient requires at least one or two follow-up appointments for minor adjustments. As you begin to eat and speak, you might notice a tiny “sore spot” where the denture rubs. It’s a bit like breaking in a new pair of high-quality leather shoes.
For our patients in Kilburn and Little Venice, we make these follow-up visits a priority. We want to ensure you are never in discomfort. If you are feeling a bit nervous about the transition, we suggest you book a consultation with our Maida Vale dentist to discuss exactly what to expect during those first few weeks of wearing your new smile.
Q: Can I get dentures made in a single day?
A: While “immediate dentures” are fitted the same day as your extractions, they are actually made in the weeks leading up to that appointment. For a truly bespoke, long-term set, a few weeks of preparation are necessary for the best fit.
Q: How many visits to the clinic will I need?
A: Generally, you should plan for about four to five appointments. This covers the initial chat, taking the impressions, the wax try-in, the final fitting, and a quick check-up a week later to make sure everything is feeling good.
Q: Will I have to go without teeth during the process?
A: Not at all. We can plan your treatment so that temporary or immediate dentures are ready the moment you need them, ensuring you never have to hide your smile while waiting for your permanent set.
Patience really is a virtue when it comes to restorative dentistry. While it is natural to want to know exactly how long it takes to get dentures, remember that we are creating something you will use to eat, speak, and smile every single day. Taking those few extra weeks ensures your prosthetic is comfortable, durable, and looks so natural that no one will even know they aren’t your original teeth.
Whether you are enjoying the greenery of Paddington Rec or the local boutiques in Maida Vale, you deserve a smile that makes you feel like “you” again. Our team is here to guide you through every step with total transparency and a friendly ear.
Ready to get started? Give us a call at Maida Smiles Dental today to book your assessment and let’s get your smile back on track.
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4,9
I could not be more satisfied with my experience at Maida Smiles - A special mention to Dr Gurteurez who is one of the most friendly and professional dentists I have ever met
Adam
I had my first visit and the team was very warm, caring and professional. The online booking platform makes it very easy to arrange your appointment. Doctor Pedro made me feel comfortable despite this being my first appointment since Covid. He is incredibly knowledgeable and offers you the best treatment for your specific condition. I would highly recommend them
Gian Paolo Ziletti
Professional. Friendly. Informative. Maida Smiles offers great dental services including cleanings, oral surgery and realignment. I feel very lucky to have them so close by. I had an appointment just this week that was quick, thorough and safe.
Emily Chmura
Being very nervous about using dentists after a terrible experience when I was younger, I came to Maida Smiles and loved the calm patient demeanour of Pedro. You can clearly see Pedro and the team take pride in what they do and are perfectionists. The whole experience was great and I will never go to another dentist again.
Reena Nathwani
Delighted with the outcome of my treatment by Pedro. Meticulous attention to detail explaining exactly how the procedure would be carried out from first consultation to completion backed up with supporting guidance notes. Clearly an expert in his field and someone who cares passionately about the outcomes for his patients. Highly recommended.
George Jones
I loved my first visit to Maida Smile Dental Clinic. The staff member at reception was very warm, welcoming and professional. My dentist, Priscilla, and her assistant were fantastic. I have quite sensitive teeth near my gums and I can find the probing and investigation quite uncomfortable during a consultation, but this wasn’t the case at all. I didn’t experience discomfort and felt in very safe hands. This also applied to the hygienist work. I didn’t even have to ask Priscilla to avoid using the ultra sound cleaner on the sensitive areas of my teeth. I’m looking forward to going back, and that’s not often you can say that about going to the dentist!
Simone Gibson
Since I first had the luck to be recommended and book an appointment with Dr. Pedro Gutierres over 8 years ago, I have never trusted my dental health nor my family’s to anyone else. It’s very hard to find a dentist who ticks all the boxes and even goes beyond any expectations you may have, from service, sympathy, professionalism, and expertise, etc., 5 stars are not enough to rate him. I was so happy when he opened his own clinic and surrounded himself with the best professionals you can find, I cannot recommend Maida Smiles Dental Clinic enough.
Sofia Gouveia
Maida Smiles Dental Clinic is excellent!! The staff is very friendly, professional and always aiming for the customers best experience! A special thank you to Dr. Pedro Gutierres who is truly amazing. I am absolutely satisfied with the results and highly recommend this great dental clinic!
Ana Cruz
Dr. Pedro Gutierres is the best Implantologist I have come across. His work is amazing and of very high quality! I would highly recommend him and Maida Smiles to all my friends and family. If you want the perfect smile this is the place to go.
Blossom
“Pedro was so patient and professional throughout my treatment for my implants.. I chose to have my treatment with a local anaesthetic rather than any sedation and have a very bad gag reflex when anything touches the back of my throat. His patience throughout the experience was wonderful, completely putting me at ease and he also gave me a technique to help me in the future. I have seen him for my follow up and fully intend to book an annual visit in 2020. which is no small thing as I live 60 miles away.I can thoroughly recommend him for any treatment.”
Denise Gilbert
I was very nervous to pull my ingrown wisdom tooth. Dr Pedro Guiterres made me feel really comfortable and the job was completed very professionally. It didn’t take long at all and I didn’t feel any pain. I would definitely recommend his service at this practice.
Jihan Daoud
From the day I made my first appointment. The team at Maida smile were amazing. They didn’t treat me like a customer but more like family. They have been great in every step in FINALLY GETTING MY DREAM SMILE from the receptionist to my dentist Pedro Laranjeira I can’t thank you enough and of course Pedro Laranjeira beautiful wife…… they are very professional and understand that I had to change my appointment now and then for work commitments and they were very understand. I will defo recommend them 100% not forgetting how chic the office is
Tracy Mensah
I was very nervous about having a dental implant but was immediately put at ease by Dr Pedro Gutierres. The procedure was explained in full and the care both during and after treatment has been of the highest standard. I received advice on how to look after my implant and have had no problems. I highly recommend.
Dawn Briggs
I had 7 implants installed by Dr Pedro Gutierres, including one which required a bone graft. In my 70 years I’ve had some bad experiences with dental treatment so it takes a lot for me to relax but, from my initial consultation, through to the end of the treatment, I had complete trust in Pedro’s expertise: preparations for the treatment and after-care were extremely thorough and fully explained, the treatment itself was surprisingly endurable (considering what was involved) and the implants have made a major difference to my life. If you are considering implants then I would whole-heartedly and sincerely recommend Pedro for this work.
Russ Hickman
I couldn’t recommend Maida Smiles enough: the care, attention to detail and the way Dentists and Nurses made sure I felt comfortable and safe throughout the treatments was incredible. Dr Pedro explained the treatments in detail to me and I have never felt under pressure to proceed… but I am very glad I did as I am happy and confident to smile again!
Mariana Pinheiro
Highly recommend this place to anybody looking for a friendly and trustworthy practice with an incredibly friendly and patient staff. Dr Pedro has been one of the best dentists I’ve ever had, he made me feel comfortable and were very knowledgeable in explaining every step of what he was doing and answering all of my questions. Amazing thorough the procedure, excellent communication, superb and professional treatment. I hope they keep it this way for a long time.
Joas Souza
Dr Pedro is a very good, confident and experienced professional. I’ve known him for some years now and always felt well cared for, either for small or bigger treatments.The facilities of the clinic are amazing and all the staff are very friendly. Highly recommended.”
Nelson Cafruni
I went to different clinics before, and nobody could really convince me until Maida Smiles did. The team here makes you comfortable , shows you different options and different budgets , and doesn't try to make you go only for one plan. I felt that the team was knowledgeable and wanted to help me , so that's why I decided to start
Diogo
I was referred to Dr. Pedro who did such a wonderful job with my teeth. The staff was extremely professional, they put you at ease, and it just made the whole experience easier. I've never looked back since
Theresa
"I told him, 'I want beautiful teeth, beautiful but natural, I don't want fake looking teeth.' Now I smile, I talk... it just makes you more confident. If you wear a beautiful nice suit... you have beautiful teeth, then it's like a perfect."
Louca
"I went to my hygienist a little while ago, and she said to me they were the best implants that she'd ever seen and she would never have known that they weren't my real teeth."
Sharon
Dr. Pedro explained the process of Invisalign to me. It sounded easy, it was quite a quick process, and the end result is my teeth moved back, so I'm quite happy.
Soula
I feel like I've not just developed a professional relationship with my dentist and the staff... they become more like friends as well, because of the kind of compassion and sympathy that they give you during treatment.
Alvin
"After a friend recommended the clinic, I was referred to Dr. Pedro, who did such a wonderful job with my teeth. The staff was extremely professional; they put you at ease, and it just made the whole experience easier. They have more than met my expectations. I have to have a few more implants, and I'm not afraid anymore. Now, finally, I can live again."
Lesley
"After not having a great experience with previous dental treatments, I was desperate for someone that I trusted. I broke a tooth, and even before I saw Dr. Pedro, he reassured me that I was going to be fine. He made me feel very comfortable and at ease. It was an amazing experience, from not only Dr. Pedro but also all the staff in the clinic, and I would definitely recommend [them] ".
Mariana
I chose Maida Smiles because of the reviews and a friend who was really happy with the results. The results definitely met my expectations. My expressions are much more smooth than before and it really makes the difference
Carolina
I’m very grateful for the quick and efficient service I received when I needed an emergency appointment. The staff were kind and accommodating, and the dentist provided clear, helpful advice that made a real difference. The whole experience was reassuring. Highly recommend their professionalism and expertise!
Safiya Guled
I am always anxious when having to see the dentist and this was one of my first experiences with Maida Smiles. The dentist, Benedict Harrison was very reassuring and immediately put me at ease. He was quite lucid in his explanations of what had to be done, etcetera, and is making good progress with the ongoing treatment. Also, the rest of the staff were friendly and just plain nice.
John Jacobs
Wow wow Dr Claudia is the best dentist in London, my kid adores her and it is always a pleasant visit. Can’t recommend her enough
Bel Cohn
I am delighted with the results of my replacement veneers.
Dr Benedict Harrison was very good at talking me through the whole process and keeping me informed during the treatment if there were any issues - which there weren’t.
He has a charming demeanour which is an added advantage in a dentist, who I think we all agree are not our favourite people, overall a 5 star experience.
Karen Shepherd
I went to the Maida Smiles Clinic for the first time and had the most wonderful experience! I am dentist phobic but strangely left the place with a big smile on my face (literally!). The receptionist was super kind, Susan was impeccable and very helpful, and I had my appointment with the most amazing dentist Dr Mafalda Vilhena. Couldn’t recommend her enough. She explains the whole procedure and is very rigorous in her work. Congratulations to Dr Pedro Gutierres for creating such an excellent working environment and to all the team. I will be back and bringing my family along and we don’t even live in Maida Vale. Thank you for such an impeccable job on my teeth and for taking my fear of dentists away. Note: they don’t cover NHS, only private bookings or with insurance.
Maria Monteiro
Paid parking is available using ParkBee on Lanark Road (the road right next to the practice). For public transport users, we are a two-minute walk from Maida Vale tube station.
