Wearing full dentures or partial dentures can take some getting used to. Fortunately, our dentists and team will be there every step of the way to help you adjust to your new dentures. Whether you need to replace a couple of teeth or an entire arch, you can trust our years of experience.
The First 24 Hours
Your first day will depend on whether you get conventional dentures or immediate dentures.
Like the name suggests, immediate dentures can be worn immediately after extracting teeth. However, it’s important that you don’t remove your dentures during the first 24 hours so your gums have a chance to heal. Your dentures will act like a sort of bandaid on your first day, which is why you’ll even need to wear them to bed. Our dentist will prescribe pain relievers or antibiotics if necessary to take as directed while the site heals.
Conventional dentures cannot be worn immediately after tooth extraction. That means our dentists will have to extract any teeth before you get your dentures.
The First Two Weeks
If you received immediate dentures, you’ll need to return to our office after 24 hours so our dentist can remove them. From now on, you’ll be able to wear them during the day and take them off at night like normal. However, because gum tissue contracts as it heals, you’ll need to continue visiting our office several times so we can refit your dentures as your gums heal.
Regardless of which type of dentures you have, it’s normal to develop sore spots or have more saliva during the first few days. If you’re experiencing dental pain or discomfort while eating, we recommend supplementing meals with Ensure or another protein-rich drink.
After Two Weeks
It takes time for your gums, cheeks, and tongue to adjust to wearing an oral appliance. After a couple weeks have passed, you’ll notice fewer sore spots in your mouth and less saliva.
It will also take time for you to get used to eating and speaking with dentures. If you lisp while you talk, we recommend reading aloud from your favorite book and keeping a running list of words that give you difficulty. The more you speak with your dentures, the easier it will become over time.
Don’t hesitate to call our office if you need your dentures adjusted. We’d be more than happy to set up a time for you.
Caring for Your New Dentures
It’s important to take care of your denture teeth like you would your natural teeth. For example, you’ll still need to brush your dentures twice a day to remove plaque and prevent bad odor. Submerge your full or partial dentures in water or denture cleaner when you’re not wearing them so they don’t dry out.
According to the , nearly half of Americans over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease. Don’t be one of them. Be sure to brush your gums twice a day to keep them healthy.
Restore Your Smile with Dentures
Dr. Adam Piotrowksi and Dr. Cohen are dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy smile. Our Grand Rapids, MI, restorative dentists can help you restore your smile with full or partial immediate or conventional dentures. Call Precision Family Dental at (616) 949-1570, or contact us online to schedule your appointment today.
This blog post has been updated.