Feeling timid about missing teeth? Your dentist may recommend dentures or other tooth replacement options to restore your smile. Read on to find out what you can expect when you first wear dentures. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call our office.
First 24 Hours
If you need to have a tooth extracted, your dentist may prescribe pain relievers and antibiotics to take as directed while the area heals. It is important that you do not remove your dentures for the first 24 hours so that the gums have a chance to heal.
Your full dentures act like a Band-Aid on your first day, so you should wear your dentures even while you sleep.
We strongly recommend that you remove your dentures before going to sleep after the first 24 hours. In this way, your gums have a chance to rest and stay healthy. Your gums were never designed to be covered with dentures 24/7, so you need to take a break from them.
Since teething areas will be painful, we recommend eating soft foods such as mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese until they heal.
First 2 Weeks
After 24 hours have passed since the tooth extraction, you should return to the office so that your dentist can remove your dentures. It is normal for sore spots to occur during the first few days of wearing dentures. You may also have more saliva.
Gum tissue shrinks as it heals. For this reason, you may need to visit the office several times to ensure that your dentures fit comfortably. If you feel discomfort or pain in your teeth while eating, we recommend adding protein-rich drinks and food in addition to meals.
After 2 weeks
It takes time for your gums, cheeks, and tongue to get used to wearing an oral device. However, after a few weeks, you will notice fewer sore spots and less saliva in your mouth. If you need your dentures adjusted, do not hesitate to call your dentist. It will take some time to get used to eating and talking with dentures. If you’re limp when speaking, we recommend that you read aloud from your favorite book and keep a constant list of words that give you trouble. The more you talk to your dentures, the easier it will become over time.
After 30 day
After the first month, you should get used to your prosthesis. As time goes on, the fit of your dentures may change, whether it’s because the gum tissue in your mouth has changed or because the dentures themselves have had some wear and tear.
If at any point your dentures do not fit comfortably in your mouth, do not hesitate to call your doctor. Your dentist can help you adjust the fit of your dentures so they stay in your mouth while you speak and chew.
Prosthesis Care
Take care of your dentures like your natural teeth. For example, you should brush your dentures twice a day to remove plaque and prevent bad odour. When not wearing your full or partial dentures, soak them in water or denture cleaner to keep them from drying.
