Dentures are an innovative treatment to replace missing teeth and soft tissue structures. This blog focuses on the post-op instructions for removable dentures following your final fitting appointment.
We will look at the following:
- What to Expect After Getting Dentures
- Why is it Important to Care for Dentures?
- How To Care for Dentures at Home
- What to Avoid with Dentures
- How Often Do I Replace Dentures?
What to Expect After Getting Dentures
You can expect to initially develop some sore spots or irritation as your mouth gets used to the new dentures. This pain can usually be treated with pain medications. Likewise, dentures may feel bulky in your mouth. Some patients experience an excess in saliva flow due to their dentures, but all of these symptoms should subside fairly quickly.
If you continue to feel discomfort, you can always bring this up with your dentist at follow-up appointments so that they can better fit the dentures to your jaw and gums. You will also need to stick with soft foods for the first few days you have your dentures to allow them time to adapt.
Why is it Important to Care for Dentures?
Like your natural teeth, you must keep your dentures clean and avoid things that can damage them. If dentures accumulate plaque and tartar or are not kept in a safe place, they can break or crack and put you at risk of developing oral problems like denture-related stomatitis.
How To Care for Dentures at Home
Denture maintenance is an essential part of your oral hygiene routine. To care for your dentures properly, follow the daily steps in cleaning:
Nightly Cleaning
Each night, remove your dentures and use a soft-bristled brush, water, and non-abrasive toothpaste. Make sure to brush every surface of your dentures to remove debris and prevent staining. Once cleaned, place your dentures in their case and keep them moist overnight with water or a denture-soaking solution.
You can also rinse your mouth after meals throughout the day to aid in flushing away food particles that may get into the spaces between your dentures.
Professional Cleaning
Your doctor will let you know how often to schedule appointments to have your dentures professionally cleaned. During these visits, they’ll check your dentures fit to ensure they’re continuing to function correctly. Let your doctor know if you’re experiencing any discomfort, your bite feels uneven, or you have problems speaking.
What to Avoid with Dentures
Along with keeping your dentures clean and not letting food particles build-up, you should also avoid eating certain foods while your dentures are in, including:
- Hard foods (Apples, nuts, carrots)
- Stick, chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, steak)
- Popcorn
- Surface-staining drinks (coffee, tea, soda, red wine)
- Corn on the cob
- Small seeds (flaxseeds, chia seeds)
Each of these foods has the potential to harm your dentures. It’s best to avoid them altogether or find alternative ways to consume them, such as softening carrots before eating.
How Often Do I Replace Dentures?
Dentures typically have a lifespan of 5 to 10 years. When taken care of properly, dentures can last up to a decade but should be replaced at this point to make sure your gums and jaw get the best support they need.
