Post-Operative Instructions for Dentures

Congratulations on your new dentures! This significant step towards restoring your smile and improving your oral function is an exciting journey. To ensure a comfortable adjustment period and to maintain the longevity of your dentures, please follow these post-operative care instructions closely. Our team is dedicated to supporting you through this transition and ensuring your satisfaction with your new dentures.

1. Initial Adjustment Period:
– Wearing Your Dentures: Initially, it may feel unusual or uncomfortable to wear your dentures. We recommend wearing them as much as possible to speed up the adjustment period. However, you should remove them before going to bed to allow your gum tissues to rest.
– Speaking Practice: Speaking with your new dentures may require some practice. Reading aloud or repeating difficult words can help you adjust more quickly.

2. Eating:
– Start with Soft Foods: Begin with soft, easy-to-chew foods. Cut food into small pieces and chew slowly using both sides of your mouth to keep the dentures stable.
– Gradually Introduce Other Foods: As you become more comfortable, you can start introducing other foods. Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods that may displace your dentures.

3. Oral Hygiene:
– Cleaning Your Dentures: Clean your dentures daily with a denture cleaner and a soft-bristle denture brush. Avoid using regular toothpaste as it can be too abrasive for the denture material.
– Soaking Overnight: When you’re not wearing your dentures, soak them in water or a denture-soaking solution to prevent them from drying out and losing their shape.
– Caring for Your Mouth: Even without natural teeth, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth every morning before inserting your dentures to stimulate circulation and remove plaque.

4. Handling and Care:
– Handling: Dentures are delicate and can break if dropped. When handling your dentures, do so over a folded towel or a sink filled with water.
– Avoid Adjustments and Repairs: Do not attempt to adjust or repair your dentures yourself. If they feel loose or uncomfortable, contact us for an adjustment.

5. Sore Spots:
– Normal Occurrence: It’s not uncommon to experience a few sore spots as your mouth adjusts to the dentures. These areas can usually be adjusted easily at a follow-up appointment.
– Rinsing with Salt Water: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help soothe irritated gum tissues.

6. Follow-Up Appointments:
– Importance of Follow-Ups: It is crucial to attend follow-up appointments so we can check the fit of your dentures, make necessary adjustments, and address any concerns you may have.

7. Patience and Practice:
– Adjustment Takes Time: Adapting to your new dentures takes time and patience. Practice eating and speaking, and remember that it’s normal to need several adjustments for optimal comfort and function.

Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities. Please remember that it’s normal to experience an adjustment period as you get accustomed to your new dentures. If you have any concerns, questions, or need an adjustment, do not hesitate to contact our dental office. We are here to ensure a smooth transition and to support you in every way possible.