Dentures are a versatile solution for tooth loss with a long history of successfully rebuilding smiles. These restorations are customized at every step of their creation to fit like a glove and look just like your natural teeth and gums.
However, it often takes new patients about a month to adjust to wearing their new teeth all day. It’s common to develop raw spots in your connective tissues that can become achy or inflamed until your mouth acclimates. Continue reading to learn 3 ways to address discomfort from denture sores and help them heal!
Tip #1: Rinse with Salt Water
Did you know that salt water can be a natural disinfectant and pain reliever? You can create your own solution by mixing about ¼ teaspoon of salt into a couple of ounces of warm water. Then, sip the mixture and swish it around your mouth for 20 to 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat until your cup is empty.
This draws fluid out of your inflamed gums to reduce aches and also eradicates bacteria that can cause an infection or gum disease. It’s typically safe to repeat several times a day to ease denture-associated aches while cleaning your mouth.
Tip #2: Address Discomfort
It’s normal for patients to experience mild throbbing when their dentures are new, and unfortunately, this can sometimes become so overwhelming that it hurts to wear them. Thankfully, there are several things you can do to alleviate your symptoms while you adjust to your new teeth.
For example, many stores and pharmacies carry oral numbing gels that contain benzocaine for temporary relief. It’s usually also safe to take over-the-counter medications like Tylenol and ibuprofen to ease any throbbing so your prosthetics feel much more comfortable in your mouth.
Tip #3: Remove Dentures at Night
Many patients who are new to dentures wonder whether they can sleep with them in. While you probably won’t harm your grin if you forget to remove them for bed once in a blue moon, it’s not usually recommended.
This is because your restoration relies on a firm suction against your gums to remain in place all day. This can hinder circulation, which means your body is unable to deliver essential nutrients and infection-fighting cells that keep them healthy. Your tender tissues need a break to enjoy the benefits of your immune system and heal effectively.
If you’ve tried all these tricks and are still struggling with denture sores, it’s time to call your dentist to ensure that everything fits correctly and functions as intended!
Meet the Author
Dr. Shane Smith is passionate about helping people of all ages build and maintain healthy, happy smiles. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and has completed ongoing educational courses with Nobel Biocare and other prestigious organizations. He can provide lifelike prosthetics using comfortable, customizable materials to restore your smile after tooth loss. You can request an appointment on the website or call (870) 932-2644.