How soon can dentures be fitted?

I have to have both of my front teeth + others extracted on the NHS scheme and replaced by a partial top denture. My dentist has suggested I have a temporary set made first and wear them for a couple of months until my gums have settled before getting the final set - but even so I am told that these temporary dentures cannot be fitted for 6-8 weeks after extraction! Is this correct please? I know how embarred I am going to feel as I talk and smile to people automatically. Any advice will be gratefully received firstly about the time period and secondly if anyone has any advice about disguising the fact that you have both your front teeth missing!!