What to Expect in Your First 30 Days with Dentures
Dentures are a great way to replace missing teeth. Our dentist offers partial, full, and immediate to make sure you have the restorations that work best for your smile.
It’s normal for there to be an adjustment period while you get used to your new dentures. Here are a few things you can do to make sure the first few weeks go smoothly.
The First 24 Hours
First, it’s important to note that your first 24 hours will look differently depending on whether you get conventional dentures or immediate dentures. If you’re getting conventional dentures, then our dentist will have to perform any necessary tooth extractions before fitting you for dentures.
However, if you’re getting immediate dentures, then our dentist can fit you for dentures immediately after tooth extraction. In this case, we’ll likely prescribe you pain relievers and antibiotics to take as directed while your gums heal. It’s important that you don’t remove your dentures during the first 24 hours — your dentures act like a kind of bandage during your first day, which is why you’ll even need to wear your dentures to bed.
Since your extraction sites will be sore, we recommend eating soft foods like mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese.
The Next Day
The next day, if you’ve received immediate dentures, you’ll need to return to our office so our dentist can remove them for the first time.
After this, you’ll be free to remove your dentures before going to sleep each night so your gums have a chance to rest and stay healthy. Dentures aren’t designed to cover your gums 24/7; it’s important to give your gums a break while you sleep.
The First Two Weeks
It’s normal to develop sore spots during the first few days of wearing dentures, regardless of what type you have. You also may have more saliva. If you have discomfort or pain while eating, we recommend supplementing meals with Ensure or another protein-rich drink.
Gum tissue contracts while it heals. If you have conventional dentures, this shouldn’t be an issue; your gums healed before your dentures were placed. However, if you got immediate dentures, then you’ll need to visit our office several times over the course of the first two weeks. As your gums heal and contract, the fit of your dentures will change. Our dentist can adjust the fit during these appointments to make sure your dentures fit comfortably.
After Two Weeks
It takes time for your gums, cheeks, and tongue to adjust to wearing an oral appliance. However, after a couple of weeks have passed, you’ll notice fewer sore spots in your mouth and less saliva. Don’t hesitate to call our office if you need your dentures adjusted. We’re more than happy to set up a time for you.
It’ll take some time for you to get used to eating and talking 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 a hard time. The more you speak with dentures, the easier it’ll become over time.
Caring for Your Dentures
Take care of your dentures like you would take care of natural teeth. For example, you’ll still need to brush your dentures twice a day to remove plaque and prevent bad odor. Brushing also helps prevent gum disease. Submerge your full or partial dentures in water or denture cleanser when you’re not wearing them so they don’t dry out.
Restore Your Smile with Dentures
Our Naples, FL, restorative dentist is dedicated to helping patients achieve their best smiles. If you’re interested in learning more about dentures, call The Modern Dentist at (239) 591-3330, or contact us online.
This blog post has been updated.