Dentures Post Operative Instructions
- Most new dentures require an adjustment period. This period will require the patient
and the dentist to work together for the best result for you and your dentures.
- Start slowly with a new denture. Eat easier softer foods first before attempting to
chew more challenging foods. Also, practice speaking with your new teeth. Even if
your new dentures are very similar to a previous set if applicable, there will be
differences that will require you to learn to eat and speak all over again.
- Dentures will not fit as well as they can initially. It generally takes several days for a
new set of dentures to settle into the tissue of the mouth.
- After several days of trial wear with a new set, you will generally be instructed to
return to your dentist for a check. Adjustments can then be made based on your
experiences. Any soreness of the gums, looseness, difficulties with chewing, or
difficulties in speech can be evaluated. Your dentist can then make necessary
adjustments or give you suggestions for dealing with any concerns that you have.
- Dentures require regular professional care. We suggest that all denture patients have
their dentures and gum tissue checked every 6 months to a year. This assures that any
problems are identified and corrected before damage is done to the mouth.
Adjustments and relines can be made to dentures that will keep them working well
and fitting well longer than if no preventive care is taken.
- Most often, it is best to sleep with dentures out of the mouth. This gives the tissues of
the mouth a rest too, as your gums need a chance to air out overnight. If you wear
your dentures at night, your gums will swell and become inflamed.
In some instances, a patient’s jaws or muscles need the support of dentures at sleep.
These patients will feel better sleeping with their dentures in place.
- If you don’t wear your dentures for a long period of time, your gums will actually
change shape and the dentures won’t fit as well. Your tongue may also get larger if
dentures aren’t worn for a long time.
- When you have dentures, daily brushing with a large brush is key to ensure good
denture condition.The most important way of caring for your dentures is to brush
them at least once a day – inside and out! You can use a soft toothbrush or special
denture brush. Either regular toothpaste or denture cream will work well. Occasional
soaking in a denture cleansing solution can also be helpful. Generally, soaking on a
weekly basis followed by a thorough brushing will be adequate.
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Take care not to drop your dentures when cleaning them. It is helpful to clean your
dentures over a washcloth or over a sink full of water to prevent breaking the denture
if dropped. If your denture starts to break down, try to repair it as soon as possible by
calling our office.
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