Modern dentures are incredibly comfortable and uncannily lifelike, but, like with virtually any dental appliance, it can take some time to get used to wearing them. Fortunately, dentures are a remarkably popular way to replace lost teeth, so there’s a lot of information available about what you can expect during the first month after getting a pair. Here’s a brief guide to staying comfortable while acclimating to your new set of dentures.
Day One with Dentures
In some cases, patients receiving dentures may require tooth extractions beforehand, so it’s important for these individuals to take their pain medication and antibiotics as directed while strictly complying with their oral surgeons’ postoperative instructions.
Patients who receive dentures must also take care to not remove them for the first 24 hours so their gums have time to heal. During this period the dentures work like a bandage for the stressed tissues in the mouth. However, after the first day, it’s best to remove and soak your dentures before you go to sleep so your mouth has eight hours to rest and clean itself. Wearing dentures continuously can exhaust the gums and trap food debris that can lead to oral infections like gum disease.
During the First Two Weeks
You may develop sore spots and produce more saliva during the first few days with your new dentures. You may also need to come in for follow-up appointments so your appliance can be adjusted to fit your healing gums. If eating causes dental pain or discomfort, try supplementing meals with smoothies or a protein-rich beverage.
The Third and Fourth Weeks
It can take some time for your gums, cheeks, lips, and tongue to get used to working with your new dentures. If you’re still having difficulty speaking after a few weeks, reading a book aloud and repeating troublesome words can help you lose your lisp faster. After your first few weeks of wearing dentures, you can expect to develop fewer sore spots and not produce so much saliva. If you need any more denture adjustments, contact your dentist to book an appointment.
It’s not uncommon for dentures to require adjustments after a few years of use, and they will eventually need to be replaced due to the changing shape of the mouth. With excellent care, a set of traditional dentures can last for up to ten years, but dentures secured by dental implants can last much longer and provide superior biting force.
About the Author
Dr. Herbert T. Hudson earned his dental degree at the Louisville School of Dental Medicine and has completed postgraduate courses from such prestigious institutions as the Dawson Academy, the Las Vegas Institute, and SPEAR Education. He is proud to hold memberships with the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. His office in Pinehurst provides general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. For more information on acclimating to wearing dentures, contact his office online or dial (910) 295-2750.